Hi,  This is my first posting to Lactnet.  I'm a hospital based LC.  I am
presently working with a pregnant woman who sustained a spinal cord injury at
C-6 andC-7 in 1996.  She had successfully breastfed her first child prior to
this injury.  She strongly desires to nurse the babies ( yes, twins!) she is
now expecting.  Her lower extremities are totally paralyzed.  She has gross
movements in both arms but lacks fine motor skills.  She does have sensation
in the breast area.  A C-section will be done at 35 weeks gestation to
decrease the risk of autonomic hyperreflexia.  She will be in intensive care
for about 3 days and then be transferred to Postpartum.  I would very much
appreciate your input on  1. Possibility of having a normal milk supply and
letdown relative to the nerve damage  and 2.  Suggestions for modifications
that would facilitate nursing.  Her husband and family are very supportive.
 She has someone with her at all times.
Thanks in advance for your assistance.  Lactnet is such a wonderful resource.

Sincerely,  Kathy

Kathy Romberger, R.N.C., B.S., I.B.C.L.C.
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