Peg,

Laurie Wheeler was right on with what she suggested.  I've helped a few
lesbian couples.  The only thing I would add would be to treat the
non-pregnant partner's need to feed the baby the same way we would treat
introducing bottles.

I would suggest she wait at least 4 weeks to let her baby's mother's milk
supply get well established before she tries to feed her baby at her breast.
Then I'd focus on the types of issues we talk about with adopted babies.
That she can use the time with the baby at breast to help with bonding,
etc., but, that she may never bring in enough to fully feed the baby.

This issue came up for me with one of the couples I helped.  The only
difference was this was the second child for this couple.  It ended up that
the partner that did not go through pregnancy this time never ended up
putting the baby to the breast.  The baby's birthmom breastfed for an
extended time, while working full-time.  I think for this couple it was
enough that if they had wanted both moms to feed at the breast it was
possible.

As Laurie said.  Give them all the information they need.  Then support them
in any way you can, that will still support breastfeeding, once a decision
has been made.



Alicia Rudin, LLLL, AAPL, IBCLC
Gainesville, FL
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