Dear Lacnetters -

I had a call from a mom today (permission to post.) She is currently
exclusively nursing her 4 1/2 month old (currently 16 lbs 8 oz). She had
been diagnosed with post-partum thyroiditis, and family doctor has
prescribed Synthroid (L1 in Hale). The AAP considers it to be "usually
compatible with breastfeeding." However, her doctor has told her that "her
thyroid has completely stopped working" and therefore she needs to be on a
"very high dose" and he is afraid it "could affect the baby." She did not
know what the exact dosage was going to be.
Based on what I read in the archives, I do not understand why he is
recommending weaning (though I admit the topic is over my head!). She has
spoken to an LC at the hospital, who shared the Hale info with her, and she
has mentioned that to the doctor. She has had this doc for 15+ years and
trust hims "completely" (her words). However, she really wants to continue
nursing, and is very upset at the thought of weaning. She is planning to
talk to her doctor at length this, and had indicated that he may be
receptive to the discussion. He has already said that it is "her decision,"
but he is strongly recommending weaning at this point. She has an
appointment scheduled for the end of next week; she will not be going on the
medication before then. She is trying to gather as much information as
possible before her appointment with the doctor so she can talk to him about
his concerns. She will be bringing with her the info from Hale's, which the
LC has provided her.

If anyone knows of any particular resources, articles, or other info... that
may help her in talking to her doctor, it would be very much appreciated.
You can email me on or off-list.

Thank you!

Heidi W
Family Breastfeeding Association
Hopewell NJ USA

             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome