Re.: ROBERT CORDES <[log in to unmask]> post 02/08/98

Rob-
In my opinion we are forgetting to examine what is causing the weight loss
of close to 10%. Did mom have a fluid IV during labour/delivery? If so,
small wonder the child pees constantly during the first days, dumping the
extra fluid and losing a lot of weight. If baby is going to the breast
well, and is obviously not dehydrated (!) I don't see a reason to
supplement at such an early stage. Stooling in the period until the milk
comes in can be infrequent. Weight loss can continue for the first 3-4 days.
If you're suspecting inadequate nipple stimulation due to no rooming in
policy, then yes, I would suggest pumping in between feeds (which should be
happening at least every2-3 hrs; the smaller or more prem. the baby, the
more frequent the feed). However, even with adequate nipple stim and a full
term babe with good suck, milk can take up to 6 days to come in.
Margaret