My Journey to Relactation

Breastfeeding is not always sunshine and rainbows. I had all these ideas of what it would be like and how amazing the experience would be, but when Scarlet got here it all went out the window. 

From day 1 she refused to latch, making me feel like I couldn't provide for her in the ways I was made to. I always thought that breastfeeding would just naturally happen, but that's not the case for everyone. Little did I know there are a million different things that can affect your milk production, volume, taste, and even if your baby can latch or not. 

After two months of exclusively pumping my breast milk, I gave up. I felt defeated and embarrassed. I felt like I disappointed my baby by not being able to give her what she needs to survive. 

That was in March of 2014, now Scarlet is 7 months old and not a single day or bottle has gone by without me regretting giving up on breastfeeding. I want the bonding experience with my baby girl, I want the accessibility of feeding anywhere and everywhere, and I want her to know that I gave it my all. I am starting my journey to relactation and if you're in the same boat, know that you are not alone and it IS possible. 

From all the research I've done so far, here are a few tips for successful relactation:

-Lots of skin-to-skin time between mommy and baby is mandatory. While you are unable to breastfeed, lay shirtless with baby while feeding a bottle to simulate the possibility of the milk coming from that area. Also keep baby close throughout the day in your arms or a sling. 

-Drink plenty of water and get your rest! I know right, rest?! What's that? This just means lay down with baby for naps and do your best to stick to a routine sleep schedule. Remember that rest during the day doesn't necessarily mean sleeping. 

-Stimulate your milk flow with the use of an electric pump, manual pump, or by hand 6-10 times a day for 20-30 minutes. It can, and often will, take about 2-4 weeks for a steady flow of milk to come in so don't get discouraged when there is a small drop coming from each nipple after pumping. 

-Relax. The more stressed you are, the less likely your chances of producing milk. Take time for yourself, step away from tense situations and make sure you reach out for support if you need it. Your doctor may be able to give you information about lactation consultants as well. 

-Support systems are essential for breastfeeding to flourish, especially when trying to relactate. Seek support and encouragement from all the people close to you and make your journey into a family affair. I don't mean you have to sit topless and let your mother help you pump, but it is easier to step away from others to pump 8 times a day if they understand how important it is to you. 

-Let your doctor or OB know that you are trying to relactate and suggest a prescription for a galactogogue, or lactation inducing medication. Several medications have been used as galactogogues. These include metoclopamide, domperidone, and the antipsychotics sulpiride and chlorpromazine. The more natural options are the fenugreek and blessed thistle supplements and mothers milk tea. NOT milk thistle. Supplements are taken 3 times a day. 

-Supplemental breastfeeding tools such as nipple shields and supplemental nursing systems have proven to be effective for introducing latching and suckling. 

I will try to keep updating my journey and offering guidance or support to anyone in need!