>
>I've found that there is a heightened anxiety in ivf moms, because of
>all that they had to go through to get pregnant. This can negatively
>impact breastfeeding if normal infant behaviors are interpreted as
>distress with bf, or supplementation is started too early. These moms
>also have reduced 'faith' in their bodies' reproductive functions, and
>need lots of info on the mechanisms of supply and demand as "cognitive
>therapy" on this issue.
Catherine and other Lactnetters,
I agree with much of what you say about the anxiety associated with ivf
and pregnancy, but do not think it should affect the quality or quantity of
breastfeeding. Most causes of infertility do not affect the ability to
produce milk and lots of it. I am an ivf mother of triplets who was
producing 90 ounces a day at my peak in production. I work with other ivf
mothers of multiples who with much cheerleading and support, and good
breastfeeding education produce enough milk for two or more babies. Often
times, ivf mothers feel very strongly about breastfeeding as it is their
opportunity to do something other women do "normally." Also, ivf mothers
tend to have higher education and higher incomes, and are very aware of the
benefits of breastfeeding. ivf Moms need the same prenatal and in-patient
education as other mothers. All breastfeeding Moms are told to latch
properly, feed frequently, watch for 6/8 light colored urine diapers a day
and 3/8 stools/day, this should not change for ivf Moms. If we approach our
ivf Moms with the conscious, but not spoken attitude of "this is an ivf Mom,
she may not have enough milk", then she may very well not have enough milk.
These new moms should be treated as all other new moms and given lots of
positive thinking, encouragement, education and resources for breastfeeding
follow-up when necessary.
Anne Nans, RN, IBCLC
Woodbridge, VA
Mom to Caleb, Amy and Riley 12/17/98
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