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Date: | Thu, 15 Dec 2005 16:53:36 -0500 |
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I think that there is a perception that breasts are supposed to remain
full and very firm (maybe even leaky) throughout the breastfeeding
experience. The reality is, at around six to eight weeks, the breasts
almost feel normal again. This usually occurs simultaneously with baby’s
growth spurt. Suddenly, a content baby wants to go to the breast
frequently, is cranky when not attached and the behavior continues for
several days AND mom’s breasts are soft. If not educated, women assume
that they don’t have enough milk and begin supplementing because, “he was
never satisfied”. How many times have you heard, “My milk just dried up
over night!”?
I always try to prepare moms for this 6-8 week transition period. I
explain that the milk is maturing; becoming more condensed and thus their
breasts will feel almost normal again. Then I mention that at the same
time their baby will likely have a growth spurt and want to nurse more
frequently. This behavior on the baby’s part DOES NOT indicate that they
don’t have enough milk; just that their baby wants more. (all in the
language!) It is simply another adjustment period for both breast and
baby. I remind them of the many adjustments that the breasts have already
gone through over the pregnancy and early weeks of breastfeeding. This is
just another step.
When lactating moms understand the dynamics of this adjustment period they
are more likely to respond to their baby’s cues, increase feeds and
maintain a good supply. When they panic at these signs, milk supplies and
babies generally suffer. Resuming her menstrual cycle is probably a result
of not responding to her baby’s cues and supplementing feeds. Pacifier use
could also be a cause. I do fear that with the new SIDS guidelines,
encouraging pacifier use when breastfeeding is well established, we are
going to see more and more babies and moms with these types of problems.
Ellen Penchuk, IBCLC, RLC
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