First period after birth.

Michelle - posted on 02/19/2010

Tracy, we've been supplementing every now and again too. Fortunately, I've been able to provide most of her meals with breast milk. One of the visiting nurses (way back when Charlotte was on phototherapy for jaundice) said that when you pump, after your breasts are as empty as you can get them, pump for an additional 2 minutes. That seems to work out ok for me, but I haven't been doing a good job of keeping track of how much I make, especially since we still supplement a little here and there.

As for the period, haven't had mine yet. But thanks for all the great info cos I'm gonna carry supplies with me from now on and make sure I have an extra change of clothes in the trunk of my car:) Sounds very messy, and not something I'll be looking forward to.

Jennifer - posted on 02/19/2010

Sorry to hear that Tracy. I just started the supplements yesterday so I can't say for sure whether they are working or not just yet. But the More Milk Plus capsules have Fenugreek Seed, Blessed Thistle, Nettle Leaf and Fennel Seed in them. The traveling has got to be hard. I can't imagine. I didn't let Ethan have his first overnight until he was 5 months old and I hated it every time even after that. I've yet to leave Abby except to go to work and back. DH travels all the time and he says it's hard enough. Don't let this make you feel like you aren't a good mother - you are. You are providing for your son as much breastmilk as possible, every little bit is helpful. As for the traveling, you are a working mom who is doing her best to support her family as necessary. I've been struggling with the same thoughts with Abby's colic. I feel like I'm neglecting Ethan because she is so in need of that time and attention :(

Tracy - posted on 02/19/2010

Thanks for the input girls. As for getting the milk to come in better with supplements...I have tried the tea and the Blessed Thistle and Fenugreek and it didn't help much if any. I guess in one sense it is good that he's already been on fomula since it looks like I'm off on another trip again, this time its UK and will be a little longer as I will travel on Saturday and back on Friday night. I hate leaving Austin like this and it doesn't make me feel like I'm a good mother, but I do have to do do what I need to do. I really wish I would have had enough milk to freeze some, but I am not making more than enough for a couple bottles in a day...and want to get as much as I can to him right now.

Jennifer - posted on 02/19/2010

It is very heavy, stock up now and be prepared for the possible messes that come with it.

Trish - posted on 02/19/2010

I have not actually started yet, but my best friend who had a baby 2 weeks after me has. She said her period was terriable. She was bleeding VERY heavy. So I am guessing this normal. Yay, makes me really look forward to it :(!!

Jennifer - posted on 02/19/2010

Tracy, I haven't had my first period since having Abby but my first period after having Ethan was horrendous. I never thought I'd survive. It was a much heavier flow and it lasted for a good two weeks if not longer. I didn't have any cramping or pain like I normally did so I didn't even know it was coming and man when it hit it was a mess. I felt disgusting for a few days and luckily it was a Friday night so I was able to stay home all weekend.

Sorry to hear that your breastfeeding may be coming to a close. I just started taking More Milk Plus yesterday evening. I normally have a great supply but yesterday my pumping was down by 5 oz, not sure if it's the stress of my son being sick or if I may be coming down with something myself...just don't want to take my chances. So supplements here I come! Hoping to see an improvement by the end of the weekend if not sooner.