I'm a bit behind reading Lactnet as my own nursling spent 2 days in the
hospital and was just released today. She had RSV and pneumonia and was
really quite ill when she was admitted. I was thinking of all those posts
on magic fairy dust and sure wishing I had some! This baby was exclusively
breastfed/breastmilk fed for 6 mos (and I mean exclusive -- nothing else
passed her lips in that first 6 mos, not even water.) She now has started
some complementary foods, but mostly gets her calories from breastmilk.
However, she goes to daycare, and RSV is highly contagious. Fortunately,
she was able to avoid an IV since she would nurse, although she was refusing
any other oral intake. Even her nursing was decreased as she was just too
short of breath a lot of the time, but she was willing to keep trying!
Being in the hospital was interesting in one way. Although I've worked
professionally with all the pediatric nurses, being a patient's mom let me
get to know them better. As they came in and out while we were nursing, all
of the nurses told me their breastfeeding stories. It turned out they had
all nursed their children, including one who nursed her last 2 until age 4.
I often feel sort of isolated here as the breastfeeding rates are low, but
now I know I have some community even at work.
Maybe it's not magic fairy dust, but I was so grateful for our breastfeeding
relationship while she was so ill. I was not only able to keep her hydrated
and well-nourished, but also able to provide instant comfort during any
procedures. Also, being in a strange place was no problem for her, since
she is always at home if she's in my arms.
Jennifer Tieman
Family Physician
Mom to 4, including nursling Caroline Rose born 5/31/03, now back home and
on the mend!
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