Breastfeeding Questions - Restarting Breastfeeding After Weaning
Hi, I have a 3 months old baby. I stopped breastfeeding her 10 days ago. My milk is dried out now. But I feel bad not feeding my milk. Can I start it again? Is there any way to increase the amount of milk?
Well done for feeding your baby for so long! She will benefit greatly for her whole life.
It is quite normal to feel a bit low after giving up breastfeeding. After all, your baby has relied on you for her milk for so long and now she is becoming a little bit independent.
Often, when you cease breastfeeding, it can be difficult, although not impossible, to restart. The problem lies with the baby no longer wanting the breast. She may have adapted to a bottle or cup and may find it too hard to suck milk from the breast. It is a lot harder to get milk from a breast than a bottle!
But, if you really want to try to start breastfeeding again, you need to start trying to get your milk supply stimulated again. This can be difficult but your baby can help. See if she will suckle at a time when she may be hungry.
If this does not work, try a breast pump. I find the Medela electric pump great - easier than hand expressing or a manual pump. It may help the milk flow if you look at a picture of your baby whilst expressing. With enough stimulation your milk may come in again.You can then feed it from a bottle or cup.
If things do not work out as you would like, remember that you have done a great thing for your little girl. Do not feel guilty about giving up breastfeeding. Many women never give any breastfeeds. You should feel proud of yourself.
Sinead
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