Hi, lactnetters. I got a call this afternoon from one determined mom-to-be. She is scheduled for a C-section in two weeks (though she may not last that long as she is 3 cm dilated already), and knows her daughter has spina bifida. Apparently it is low on her spine, but they will not know the exact extent of the problem until after the delivery. This is baby # 3 for mom and she has 2 step sons as well. (I don't know how old any of them are, but I gathered not real young.) She will be a "primilacta" (did you see that proposed term in the latest JHL?) and is most determined to breastfeed this baby. She is beginning to get flack from at least one nurse who has told her that since the baby will have to be fed on her stomach, breastfeeding would be difficult if not impossible. (Am I missing something here???) Mom anticipates baby will be hospitalized for at least 3 weeks at LeBonner (sp?) in Memphis, and is determined to breastfeed and plans on pumping to deal with the feedings she will miss. I asked her if she had gotten a pump or needed info on one. She had gotten a G----- from the store and I suggested that she really needs something that will work better for long term pumping. (Gave her the name of a Leader in that area who rents pumps). She is also willing to try finger-feeding, as is her supportive hubby. Do any of y'all know about reference material on breastfeeding a spina bifida baby? I read her a little from BF and Human Lactation, and was wondering if there might be some quotable journal articles that she could show unsupportive medical personnel. Info that might offer concrete suggestions on positioning the baby would be very helpful as well. Seems to me that nursing in a reclined position might work, though I have NO experience working with these babies. It was a pleasure talking to this mom. She seems to be coping with the news (and has known since 14 weeks into the pregnancy), though admits that once baby is here, it will be a new ball game. I reminded her that coping with a new baby is a challenge in and of itself, and I also pointed out that by breastfeeding her baby (and/or pumping) that she is doing one thing that NOBODY else can do for that baby, and will be providing some sense of normalcy for that baby in the midst of a situation that is anything but normal. I gave her contact numbers for Leaders in the Memphis area. If there are any Memphis folks on Lactnet, if you know of specific folks who might be a good resource for this mom, please email me privately. Thanks in advance. Melissa Vickers, IBCLC [log in to unmask] PS. I asked the other day about info on milk that comes out of one breast smelling sour (4 week old baby) and haven't gotten any replies. Any suggestions on that one?