My *DIFFICULT* Breastfeeding Journey
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- Опубліковано 26 вер 2024
- #ad I’m baaaaack! And I have something I’ve been dying to talk about. Thanks to Haakaa for sponsoring this episode! Get your own Haakaa breast pump here: bit.ly/3wmGhRD
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Take a deeeeep breath, inhale summa YOU. I'm Jeannie Mai Jenkins, and, baby, it's time to OWN ur life! Together let's get 💯 about fashion, fitness, finance & everything to crank up ur confidence. Thursdays, with me, 10am PST. Ya ready? #HelloHunnay
Kin Original Series.
Who else can relate?
Please do an episode like this with you talking to a lactation consultant. There is so much misinformation about breastfeeding. Im a doula with lactation education
I can't 🙌 I'm laughing singing Jeannie got that money🤣
I went through the same thing and breastfeed till she was 3 years old.
So proud of you! I nursed my son for 3 years 😵💫 totally NOT what I had planned but between COVID and changing my views on breastfeeding and weaning over time it just sort of happened 🤣. It was so hard but so worth it! Keep it up mama ❤️ if you're open to it I'd LOVE to here the birth story!
Had such a hard time with breastfeeding. My son wouldn't latch at all. Then it got to were I wasn't eating enough and couldn't produce anything due to depression. After I came back to work it just completely fell down hill. Still feel really disappointed in myself for it
Before anyone asks, Jeannie said pics of Monaco are coming soon (she’ll be “fashionably late”) and that there’s even a hello hunnay video with her on the way. Be patient y’all LOL. They took the time they need / deserve. 💗 I’m soooo freaking excited to meet her and hear more about Jeannie’s motherhood journey. 🥹
Yay 😁😁.. I can't wait ❤️
I cannot wait to see baby monaco. I want to see who she looks liike.
Can’t wait to see her💕
Can't wait
I am excited but I will wait patiently
"is this gross?" NO! This is MOTHERHOOD!! More women should share their experiences, both good and bad! Its good info for people like me who want to be a mother but hasn't been blessed with a baby just yet.
I dont want kids, let alone birth one, but I'm so interested in this and want to soak up this information since its never given to women unless you're already living it
Mentally new mom's go through SOOOOOO MUCH. It's not talked about enough. Also there needs to be a conversation about not shaming new moms if they choose to or have to supplement with formula. It's almost like other moms/even some doctors "mommy shame", those who go down that path. It's not okay.
I fed when my son showed cues of being hungry instead of trying to feed on a schedule. This helped not stressing me out. Also I struggled to drink enough water and my breastfeeding support group suggested adding Liquid IV to my bottle of waters to boost my hydration. I breastfed until my son was 14 months.
Wow!!! Wish I had known about liquid IV!!! 👀 I breastfed for 6 months and as soon as I saw teeth coming in, it was a wrap!! Lol!! No biting mommy over here!!
I did the same. I did not do a feeding schedule and I did not wake my kids up at night. I found it to be unnecessary
I wholeheartedly believe that the stress is what drains your milk. With my first, I was stressed and concerned she wasn’t getting enough. but with my 3rd, I trusted that my body will produce what my baby needs and I have not lacked. I may not have an over abundance of milk like some blessed mothers but I make enough for my baby and that’s ok! 🙂
My best advice is to relax, eat enough, drink enough water , continue with your prenatals AND trust your body!
I agree! I have a 4 month old baby boy and I am breastfeeding and pumping. I have had a tough week where I have been so stressed and I can tell that stress affects milk production because I am making less than I usually do. Like you, I was making just enough. Plus I work full time so that makes it harder also. Breastfeeding is definitely a challenge, but I will work on stressing less, eating more and drinking more water. I keep saying that I will instead of just doing what I need to do to make more for him.
You are right!!! I’m on my pump right now and calmness motivates abundance!
@Asma Abdi 💗
You are so right! You need to eat, drink and relax. These are the most important things. After my baby was born I was so stressed out taking care of him 24/7, never resting, barely eating anything, always on the edge, an emotinal mess... And surprise surprise I couldn't fully breastfeed my baby. Now we do a mix of breastfeeding and formula and it works nicely. Takes away a lot of pressure. Oh... And I reall wish I had a Haakaa earlier. It really does help.
Yes I was concerned my baby wasn’t getting enough but I was barely eating one meal a day 🤦🏽♀️ I was alone my husband was working like 80 hrs a week so I literally didn’t get a break until night, I would be so hungry after breastfeeding I would get lightheaded I was losing calories I didn’t have. Ladies you have to eat if you want to produce milk, it’s hard but force yourself to eat when you can put food next to your bed or by the rocking chair. Lesson learned
I learned so much after breastfeeding. First of all, 3-4 ounces TOTAL during a pumping session or breastfeeding is absolutely normal. Anyone who produces more than that is considered an over-producer. Social media has everyone convinced that *their baby is starving if they’re not getting 7-8 ounces from EACH breast! And every photo someone posts with bottles full of milk from one pumping session is not the norm or needed. Lactation consultants know that 2 ounces each breast is more than enough as it’s more nutrient dense therefore you don’t need more.
I couldn't agree with you more on this...
thank you for this! its hard to compare my 5oz to those who pump 12oz!
@@Virgoae I was there. Crying over my measly 4oz and never believed my doctor when he said she was getting more than enough.
It also doesn’t help if your baby isn’t a little chonkster. I always felt like she was starving because she wasn’t fat and I thought the little cute fatties were somehow healthier and thriving more than her. It’s just her body type. She looks like a damn gymnast at 2 years old🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I’m an over producer and sometimes it’s a blessing and a curse. With both my pregnancies on day 3, my breast were SO ENGORGED and painfulllll 😢😢. It hurt so bad. I would have to hand express and pump to get some relief. Nurses would always come in and give me heating pads to help alleviate the engorging. After I pumped, one of them told me I produced so much milk that I could feed the whole floor of new babies 🤦🏽♀️😂. Thankfully now, I exclusively breastfeed my 7 week old so my breast empty out pretty well now. (No more engorgement) but when I’m away from him for more than 3+ hours, they get back full and fat again lol
Definitely agree with this!
I gave birth in a Catholic hospital and I didn't find out until later that the nurses are trained to do certain things unless you specifically ask them not to. I'm wondering if your nurse was trained to put the baby to your breast without asking for permission. I can't imagine how stressful it was trying to pump, etc to make enough milk. Motherhood is SO hard.
Welcome Back Jeannie!!! I missed you sooo much!!! I felt like there was a HUGE part of my life that was missing! But I know it was for good reason! First off, I just wanna say Happy belated Mother's Day to you & Mama Mai!!! And I know this was special for you bcuz this was your FIRST Mother's Day & I hope you enjoyed your special day bcuz you deserve it! And even tho you haven't been a mom for too long, you're DEFINITELY on that list for Best Moms Ever & that's a FACT!!! I hope you guys are doing good & much love to you & the family! Stay blessed Jeannie!!! 💚💚💚
Awww missed u too! Glad to be back ❤
@@HelloHunnay sorry to ask but when are we going to see that baby girls pretty Face? 🌸💕👶🏼
What worked for me was feeding on demand, whenever at his request. Setting a schedule so rigid the first weeks are too stressful and stress is the number one enemy of breast milk production. After a went back to work, then a set a pumping schedule. I Brest feed for two years and 4 months. You are doing great mama, don't stress and go with your baby's flow.
Somethings wrong with you
Jeannie, working with a lactation specialist is the best thing I could have done. I have learned your baby gets more milk when your baby is sucking more than when you pump. Also, some pumps just don't work for some. Even if the pump was rec by the hospital maybe try a different kind. The best thing that helped me was continuing my pre natals the whole time, make sure I eat around the clock and keep up my water! I hope this helps ❤❤
Feeding on demand was the best advice I received! We had latch issues at first but after a lot of persistence and a couple of lactation consultations we were able to exclusively breastfeed. My daughter is now 2 years and 2 months and we are still on our breastfeeding journey! 💖
Yes! So happy to hear that❤️! Awesome momma🙌🏿!
It’s so crazy to me because it seems sooooo freaking logical! Like, I’m sure the first humans didn’t time their breastfeeding sessions 😅
Can’t wait to see baby Monaco 🤍 I know she’s beautiful 🥰
I can’t wait to hear about your baby birth story!!! You’re doing a great job as a mom, it’s all about learning the process! I’m still young myself but I look up to you especially being Viet/Canto myself. Your life stories helped shaped my views in life. Wish you the best for you, Monaco, and your husband!
love the username and photo! :)
My breastfeeding journey was almost opposite when it came to producing. I always had an oversupply of milk my babies would choke when eating and suffer with reflux due to how fast and how much came out. Which I have super tiny breasts so for me I was in complete shock what my body produced . I was constantly in pain the engorgement never went away . Those plugged ducts were constant. The pain is exactly how you explained it . One of the most painful things ever . You cant eat, sleep , you just want to get the pain away. I made it 2 years with both kids and I'm so proud and you should be too! Every milestone we do or make or even any effort we put towards our kids should be recognized and we should be so proud of what we do and have done for our babies. Even some mom cant breastfeed you still have to make those bottles , clean those bottles . It's all work and it's all amazing ! Happy belated mothers day and thank you for this video ! Its definitely not talked about enough.
Like watching Jeannie sit and talk about breastfeeding and baby stuff hit me like a ton of bricks on how much growth she has had. From saying she doesn’t want kids to doing everything in her power to ensure her baby isn’t hungry is such a great change. 🥹I love to see this as someone who currently doesn’t want kids, I see Jeannie and I’m like never say never.
Jeannie I love your journey, thanks for giving us an inside view of your mind, life and growth. I surely appreciate it cause I see alot of me in you and it is really inspiring. ✨💖
Love all the way in Jamaica 🇯🇲❤️
Ah bredda
I had 2 completely different experiences breastfeeding my kids. With my 1st, i struggling at first, hospital made me supplement because my daughter was small and she was having a hard time latching on and wouldn’t nurse for long. I would pump and get 1-2 oz but I stuck it out and eventually got a good rhythm going. I also knew I had to go back to work so I would nurse her on one side and pump on the other. By the time I had to go back to work when she was 3 months, I was able to pump 4-6 oz per boob every 3 hours. Never had clogged ducts or mastitis. Nursed my daughter until she was 2 and pumped until she was 1. With my second, I’ve been a stay at home mom and right from the start my son was a champ at nursing. He would want to nurse every 2 hours and my milk came in 2-3 days after he was born. I was so engorged when my milk came in that I had to pump and I would get 3-4 oz from the start. But that would cause me to produce more and start a vicious cycle eventually causing me to get clogged ducts and mastitis. And to top it off, my son never has taken a bottle. So a lot of milk went to waste. I am 16 months into me second and last breastfeeding journey and my son has been exclusively breastfed. Very hard and demanding job, had cried many time over not getting enough rest, taking time for my self or even just getting a break. But my husband and I have gotten into a good routine that works for us. He comes home from work and plays with the baby, bathes the him, and gets him ready for bed so I can get a break, once it’s bedtime, I nurse the baby to sleep while my husband cleans up from dinner. Works for us. Good luck on you’re breastfeeding journey Jeannie. You’re doing great!!!
Hello Laura how are you doing
I actually LOVE you talking about this. I could not produce any milk I tried everything and would get maybe an ounce between the 2 bottles combined. It puts alot of stress on us mama's! In the end I ended up switching to formula full time and it made being a mommy so much better and less stressful! Remember every mama and baby is different.
How long did you try breastfeeding for? Im 2 weeks in an I took can barely pump 1 ounce... so Im doing both... formula and breastfeeding
Yes 🙌🏼 every one is different an baby . I’m on number six baby . every pregnancy and birth was different and now with this last time of breast-feeding it has been soooo different and hard for me this time around. I’m being told by pediatrician that I need to supplement for my baby to get her weight up . Even though she’s eating good and has dirty diapers it’s not enough because she’s not gaining weight.
@@debbrahblain3192 please see a lactation consultant! I just saw one 7 weeks in and I was even pumping wrong! No wonder I haven't been producing enough milk for my son. Best money you could spend. Do just one session. Ask about cluster feeding and ways to mimick it with pump and with baby.
That was how it was for me as well. I thought with my 2nd I would produce more but I didn’t. I would always feel guilt that maybe I didn’t try hard enough but the exhaustion was so real.
Well, when I had my first baby, no one told me not to drink alot of fluid because it increases your breast milk. But I was extremely thirsty and dranked the coffee, orange juice, the pitcher of water and milk. Two hours later, OMG! Dolli Parton had nothing on me. I was so engorged with milk, it bulged into my armpits like baseballs, I couldn't close my arms and ended up with with a fever and couldn't nurse my baby. The doctor came in and relieved me squeezing that milk out by hand and that was fifty years ago. I'm glad through technology and new devices, you young ladies don't have to suffer the way I did.
This reminds me of my breastfeeding journey. I thought I would never produce enough milk; on top of that, the physical pain of baby latching wrong was so discouraging for me, but glad you shed light on the difficulties that some women face when breastfeeding.
You go Jeannie! I tried breastfeeding but only for 1 month. I had twins so it was too stressful!!
THANK YOU for always keeping it real with us 💕
Girllll I tried nearly all the products you showed and I still can’t produce enough.. it’s worse now that I’m back at work and pumping never works. I literally only pumped less than 1/2oz total last night and was so frustrated that I didn’t even give it to my baby and drank it myself (he’s drinking 4-6oz now so 1/2oz is nothing!). It’s honestly felt so shitty every time i see other moms boast about milk just flowing out of their breast and I’m over here like milk WHERE?!
I just bought a haakaa thanks to you! Not giving up :)
Btw.. I feel super connected to you because I followed your pregnancy as I was also going through my first pregnancy at the same time. My baby boy was born on Christmas Day! His name is Yande (Bemba language from Zambia).
Yande & Monaco are two badass names ❤️
This honestly feels like when I had my first daughter. I wasn’t lactating well at all. I tried everything: medication, palm wine, pumping. I could produce what seemed like maximum of an ounce. Eventually I had to use formula to supplement but I breastfed her everyday till she was over a year. Now my second daughter is 2 months; with her I lactate so much better. I can get close to 5 ounces when I pump. I’m so grateful I’m lactating better this time.
I can relate to being overwhelmed and stressed out. Initially, we were struggling because I didn't know a thing about breast feeding. I had learn about the different positions, tools and products. I kept unlatching and re lactating baby because I felt pain and sore nipples while nursing. My milk didn't come in until 5 days after birth and once it did I was nursing every 2 hours and pumping with a Motif immediately. Pretty early on I discovered the Haakaa and this really helped because it saved me so much time on cleaning supplies and pumping. All I had to do was remember to attach before I started nursing baby and make sure to drink water or coconut water during my session. Whenever I felt like I wasn't producing enough, I would eat Milk Makers Lactation Cookies and power pump. Also eating a lot of oatmeal helped me maintain and increase my milk. I still breastfeed after 8 months and plan to continue at least until the one year mark.
I can only call myself beyond blessed to not have struggled with breastfeeding for either of my 2 c-section births. I always got an extra 4-8oz (from 2 boobs) after filling my babies within 24hrs. The HAKKA pump was definitely a game changer and I recommend for every mom. Breastfeeding hack: I would put the hakka on the other boob, while my child was nursing to collect the fore milk and make my body produce more milk, so when I switch sides, my child got the heavy dense milk from the other boob and would sleep well.
Don't this tonight! He falls asleep on my boob though.... and he won't take anymore......hmmm
Damn ... That's smart to get the fore milk so baby sleeps better. I'm definitely going to try this!
First of all congrats Jeannie!!Breastfeeding is so hard! Within a few days of my son being born I learned he had a tongue tie. Due to him having jaundice and being too tired to latch when he came from under the blue lights I started to exclusively pump. It was so tough sticking to the schedule, feeling immobile, feeling like breastfeeding wasn’t working and I didn’t have enough time with my son but I stuck with it. At about 3 months we had his tongue tie corrected and I moved away from pumping and tried to latch him exclusively. I found an excellent lactation consultant (after some trial and error) and was able to make it to 15 months! I say this all to say that breastfeeding is really tough, but ultimately the most important thing is that your baby is fed (formula or breast milk). I actually stopped all of the supplements and found that just latching my son and taking my postnatal vitamins (Actif postnatal vitamins) worked the best. I also found that my milk decreased when I drank the Mother’s milk tea. I know that your breastfeeding experience has had some challenges but you are a great mom and be patient with yourself on this new journey of motherhood!
This is exactlyyyyy where I’m at rightnow!! My son is about to be three months and I’m still having a hard time. He has a lip tie and it’s still so painful. Then with the whole beginning of your journey is exactly what happened with mine. As soon as I started with formula, my supply started to go down. Right when I felt I was getting my milk is when the doctors told me to supplement so it made me feel like he wasn’t getting enough so I like freaked because of the jaundice and didn’t latch him as much. I was also so so so raw and constantly bleeding every time he latched. I only get about 1 oz still. Makes me sad
It just seems like so many moms get told they’re not milking enough and that they need to supplement and end up on a vicious downward spiral. And me too, I couldn’t take the supplements because they decreased my supply, gave me the worst headaches and made me extra moody.
@@ashleygarcia4616 Hang in there! You are doing amazing. We are so hard on ourselves as Moms. I feel like the first few months were a blur for me. Not sure if you have seen an IBCLC but the last one I found really helped me with moral support and the issues I was having with supply.
Thank you for posting this!!! I just had a baby and I’ve had a hard time breast feeding and have felt so stressed and guilty supplementing with formula. I pumped about 8 times a day for 3 weeks as well and would get like a half an ounce per pump and then he finally latched 🙌 I thought breastfeeding would be so easy and it hasn’t been. It’s so good to know I’m not the only one struggling
It is so so hard. I’ve been breastfeeding totaling 3 years and counting so I feel you. Any questions you have I’d be happy to help out 🥰
@@mamigetsreal4503 thanks so much!
My babies didn’t latch on my nipple. I tried everything with specially trained Breast feeding ladies at the hospital. I felt defeated, but I pumped every 2-3hrs (even at night) and was able to eventually feed my babies using a bottle of my breast milk. Sending you all the love, because this is hard, and your doing great! Thank you for sharing and encouraging other mom’s!
Jeannie, I totally understand you 100%. I experienced the exact same thing with my 1st born. He was leaching on my won’t let go. Came to find out, he was hungry and I wasn’t producing. When we went to the pediatrician for a check up, that’s when we found out I wasn’t producing. He had to be hospitalized because he wasn’t eating. So the pediatrician told me it’s ok to give him formula better than not eating. I was so stressed and kept blaming myself because of me not able to produce.
But after I supplement him with formula, I felt better because now I knew he ate. Even with my 2nd one, I still didn’t produced. But I was less stressed because I knew I tried the best I could and it’s ok to give them formula. They are now 19.5 and 15 year old boys. Perfectly healthy.
Don’t blame yourself too much like I did. At the end of the day, you know you have tried your best and there is another option.
Hope my story ease you a little bit. Trust me, you are not alone. Take care.
Oh sweets.
First..let me assure you that Monaco will GET FED bc you'll always do whatever she needs to be fed,rather that's with breast milk or formula. I think that nurse was VERY wrong assuming you were breastfeeding. She had no right to do that!
I chose formula bc breastfeeding was SO unbelievable painful for me. The milk was more blood than milk and that was for 4 weeks. My Dr said...."FED IS BEST". However thar needs to get accomplished is the right way FOR YOU! Formulas kept both of my babies healthy and happy. And made me a better Mama. I was in agony! Breastfeeding isn't for every Mama and the guilt so many try to incorporate mothers over that is insensitive and cruel,in my opinion. Women need to support each other....being a Mama is difficult..challenging..a blessing and the most wonderful journey of our lives....HEALTHY AND LOVED babies with healthy and happy Mamas, is what matters most! 💛🙏🙏💛
Sis, with my first I was so blessed to have more than enough breast milk. I was a cow! I didn’t do anything to my diet I just produced like crazy! The milk was squirting out when I’d take showers. However my second pregnancy came soon after my two boys are almost two years apart and I barely made it to 3months. I had to supplement and it was opposite for the second. My whole second pregnancy my boobs felt normal. So formula was something I had to do with my second and now there 2 and 4. Perfectly healthy kids!! Being a mom you learn as they grow. As long as they have your love they will love you unconditionally! 🥰
Congratulations on your baby!!! When I asked my dad how do I know I am doing this rite or if I'm a good mother? He responded the fact that you care makes you a good mother. I didn't understand really at first, but now watching you I see what he means. When you care, whatever you don't know, you will try your hardest to figure out and you care to learn your child. That's how I know you'll be just fine. Lil Monacco is blessed to have parents who love her ❤️
You asked your dad not your mom? lol
@@BeautifulMixedKids wtf? Why would it be wrong to ask their dad? And what if they don’t have a mom in their life? SMH. 🤐
Love this❤️
THANK YOU for posting this and normalizing this experience for others! I thought I'd be so chill about feeding my baby (breastmilk or formula), but when it came down to it, the external pressure I felt was so real that I put unnecessary stress on myself. I tried everything under the sun (supplements, teas, brewer's yeast, power pumping, nursing around the clock, eating oats and other foods, drinking a ton of water, you name it) and despite that, 4 months later, I'm still not producing enough for my baby and I have to supplement with formula. Took me a lot of emotions and tears, I thought I'm the only mother on earth who can't increase her milk supply and I kept blaming myself for doing it wrong! Until finally I realized it's a lot more common of a problem than the lactation consultants want you to believe. At the end of the day, formula is there for a reason, it is not poison. Fed is best!
Breastfeeding is over rated!😂 it’s painful af…
I didn’t produce anything with all 3 of my kids and my girls hated breastfeeding. I quit after 3 weeks with each. I was getting depressed and I was trying to heal from a C-section. Once I stopped and finally got some sleep my depression lifted. I hate how breastfeeding is forced down our throats.
Do whatever is good for you and baby mommas! Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty❤
Feeding on demand vs every three hours is so important in the beginning!
Jeannie, that was amazing that you shared your journey of breast feeding with other mothers. Its always nice to hear from the mothers experience they had with breast feeding. Loooooved it. Bless you,baby and husband.
hi jeannie! i’m a mom of twins, 4 months post partum and finally producing just enough to feed them. boy that was a journey! what i did to sustain my milk supply was eat! no supplements just good old food especially pho! that bone broth helps a lot! i love to hear your journey because this mom thing is soo hard. sending lots of love 💕
You’re doing great Jeannie! I have 4 kids and I can tell you that each one had their own breastfeeding issues. With my first child, he was not latching on and I quickly became engorged and my boobs really felt like rocks. I had to supplement because I was afraid that my son was not eating. It took a couple of weeks for him to be able to latch on properly and he refused to be breastfed around around 5 months. My second and third kids experiences were easy and I thought that my fourth would be as well… only to find out that I needed to see a lactation consultant to teach me how it is done 😳. I really thought that I was a pro then 😜. I did pump at first, but what worked best for me was to have the baby suckle every two hours, drink plenty of water, soups, eating well which was a challenge when you constantly have the baby stuck to your boobs. For that reason I co-slept with each one of them so that when they hungry, I can just hand them over their nutrition. You’re doing great as I prefaced and I wish you the best in your breastfeeding journey.🙏
I want to cosleep but afraid of SIDS since they say it increases the risk. How did you do it safely?
@@h3artands0uLL - Yeah, that’s a really great question! I’m curious about that as well. (If any other mom’s come across this, definitely feel free to share your advice/insight as well! 💕)
@Heather Lendo - 🦋 I’ve always wondered if their personalities play a factor. Is your eldest more stubborn and beats to their own drum, while your other kids are easy-going and ‘go with the flow’ personalities?
@@h3artands0uLL I was a bit afraid to be honest, but with my first. I slept with one eye open so to speak and removed extra pillows from the bed and had the baby’s head laying on my arm so that I can be more alert. With my last born I had him sleep on my chest and that was a true bonding experience.
@@sabrina.natalie It definitely plays a role in their personalities: my oldest is very independent and responsible and my last one really marches to the beat of his own drum. My second and third are so easy going and very much compliant. My lactation consultant told me that as well.
Oh I remember those days for me it was fenugreek 3x a day and milk thistle. I had three children back to back in 5 years each time it was easier but I just remember crying and being so sleep deprived and pumping… also oatmeal is a plus for milk production… definitely a lactation consultant is a plus too. My midwife was also a lactation consultant and just having that support and encouragement helped so much.. I hope you have a successful and positive breastfeeding journey.💕🥰✌🏼
I went through the whole depressed state, feeling like a failure, stressed out, needing to supplement etc. I realized my issue was I should've have consulted a lactation specialist, drink more fluids and have baby to feed on demand rather than "every 2-4 hrs"... At first I was producing a lot then it just started to"dry" up and baby preferred the bottle instead of my breast since bottle was easier. I had to supplement and breast feed until 9 months and that was the end of my journey ....❤️😇
I have so many tips and info for Breastfeeding, birthing, postpartum, the whole 9 (pun not intended, but welcome) 🤣. I've wanted to become a Doula, childbirth Educator, and lactation consultant for 10 years after struggling to find support in my first pregnancy. Your video is so inspiring for me to be a solid resource for Mamas struggling in these areas. There's so much bad info out there and we get helpless sometimes, which doesn't help any of the processes. Support is so important and good info makes all the difference.
We love you Jeannie and I wish the best to all the Mamas out there. We are all in this together ❤
First time mom here! My babygirl is 6 weeks old and I am SO thankful I am able to breastfeed her bc honestly most of us know how much of a struggle it is! I had some trouble in the beginning with her latching on properly but eventually got it! What has helped me produce enough milk is doing lots of skin to skin. My husband will help bottle feed her if I’m busy sleeping, eating, showering etc. So that’s been super helpful! But other than that I try to have her breastfeed so it sends my body the sign to make more milk. I started pumping once a day just to make sure my supply doesn’t go down. Also I LOVE and highly recommend the Haakaa to everyone! While baby is feeding I’ll put that on the other breast to collect the milk and not go to waste. I have been freezing all the extra milk for the future. My goal is to be able to breastfeed at least 6 months, ideally I’d prefer the year but we’ll see! 🤞🏼💕shoutout to all the badass moms doing their thing! Our bodies are amazing!!
So I had a completely different experience/issue. I had an oversupply of breastmilk that came in immediately after giving birth. It was great until my breast became lumpy and I had to start doing constant breast cancer ultrasounds for the big lumps that wont go away.
I donated some of my milk and my baby is 6 months old and has never gotten formula. And I have a deep freezer full over excess pumped and dated milk. Now 6 months later my supply is dipping and I can give her from the freezer stash.
Welcome back jeannie! 🙏🏽👼
I had so much milk 🥛I was called Bessie the cow. The nurses at the hospital told me to stop bringing milk and take some home because the nicu fridge was full of my milk. With one breast I was able to filled up a 12 Oz baby bottle . 🍼
Lol 😂! OMG! This is my story also! My first was a NICU baby and I pumped round the clock while she was there. Eventually they told me to stop bringing in milk as well😂!
I think you're one super mom! My milk never dropped and I haven't heard anyone explain my situation as well as you just explained yours. When I say identical I really mean that. I had no milk in the bottom of the bottle. I gave up around three weeks when the Dr's started to get concerned because my daughter was below her birth weight and she was extremely fussy. It made me kick into postpartum depression really bad. I'm also a fellow cap so I get that feeling 100% when you mentioned it will kill us... because it did kill me to not be able to do the one basic thing a mom should be able to do which is breastfeed. My mom saw I wasn't producing milk and stuck a sample bottle from the Dr's office into my daughters mouth. My daughter ate like two in a half full bottles. I just cried. My mom Packed my pump up which I'm assuming meant the trash because I never asked for it back or saw it again. Started feeding her formula and never looked back. There's no way I would have lasted months continuing the teas and vitamins because I had to go back to work. It wasn't an option. I felt shamed for many years after that because it isn't talked about. I'd just like to say to any moms dealing with this you're not a failure and it's okay to change it up to something that works for you! A fed baby is best.
That pop out with the haakaa pump was🤯 a game changer!😂 i wish I would've known about it with my last baby! But OMG Jeannie! Ive missed you so much and this was a great way to share your journey with breastfeeding, because you’re right, everyone experiences their own journey and some experience some of the same situations. I appreciate how vulnerable you are in this video. I kept wondering if mama mai breastfed and if you were able to get advice from her😳😂 I know with my first baby, my mom helped me a lot with breastfeeding tips and we were able to nurse until she was about 12 months old, but then with my last baby, that was born aug 2021, we only lasted 3 months at the max😞. Im so glad that youre blessed/fortunate enough to experience motherhood💚 and look forward to your next video☺️
I’m so glad you put it out there that mom’s have the job of going through total body trauma from pregnancy 🤰🏽, to birth, to breastfeeding 🤱 on top of all of the rest of your everyday life. It is insane and under noticed how much it is on women. I breastfeed both of my sons, there now 8 and almost 5.
My first son I breast-fed for about eight months and I supplemented him with formula. My breastmilk was plentiful thank God but I still supplemented him with formula. My second son, I fully breast-fed for a little over a year. What no one truly told me was that you have to watch what you eat breast-feeding a baby, they do not handle bad eating well. Their little systems can’t handle it. So my suggestion to new and seasoned moms, is to eat as clean as you can while breast-feeding.
Keep doing your best girl, you got it! Strong mom’s unite
Jeannie! You are doing an amazing job! From vitamins, teas, supplements, pumping, and more. I am here watching your video as i recall my BF journey. I am knotting my head, laughing with you, tearing up, and completely feeling you on every step of your journey. 100%!! Hands down the Haaka pump had me producing more milk which i had extra to store away for my babies. Girl! The mastitis was the worst running in the second other than the end of the journey.
BF-ing my babies were the most beautiful and the most challenging thing I have ever done. Hang in there and be very proud of yourself.
First of all Jeanie and all moms you're doing an amazing job. Thank you ⚘️ ⚘️
Please don't feel anyways about yourself if breastfeeding doesn't happen for you 🤷🏾♀️ idk it just works that way.
A few things I've learned: do lots of skin to skin with baby, eat as you did when you were pregnant because the bodies knows to pack it all in the breast.
Feed, by following your baby cues, and do both sides for every feeding even if you give formula after..let baby set feeding schedule for themselves..after 6months scheduled feeds become more do-able
Soothing baby, you can use your breast, when u can, but the breast knows when baby is feeding or sulking for comfort.
side note when u pump at least 1oz or 2 doesn't come out as if baby was drinking so if u pump 4oz you're producing around 6oz...when/if giving baby formula
after breast then give the difference at first..ie baby drinks 4oz from breast then give 2oz - 3max oz of formula
When napping let baby be beside you because while you sleep they'll naturally gravitate towards breast whether for food or sukling.
Also, don't forget your local health places they'll have programs where lactation nurses can help over phone or come to the house
As much as I said all of that..men and women please know that just because we all have breast doesn't mean milk just comes.
YOU'RE NOT BROKEN OR MADE DIFFERENT...YOU'RE HUMAN...so breathe and know YOU ARE DOING AN AWESOMESAUCE JOB 👏👏👏💐💐💐🙏🏽😇🦋💛💚
I’ve missed you on UA-cam so much!!! Hang in there, it’ll get better ❤️.
I’m glad you spoke about it because breastfeeding scares me sooo much! My friend just bled from her breasts instead of producing milk! And she was really frustrated and felt she was doing something wrong but In fact she wasn’t - breastfeeding is not for everyone. So glad to see you back, don’t rush, take all the time you need. Sending you and Monaco love 💕
Omg that sounds so scary! Ppl really make breastfeeding out to look so simple...
I desperately tried to breast feed my son, it was the hardest 5 months of my life. I had a very poor supply and he had trouble gaining weight. I switched him to formula and it was a go's send to my mental health.
My daughter is now 7 months, I swore up and down that I wasn't going to breast feed with her but we couldn't find a formula that agreed with her, she would violently spit it all up... I felt that I had no other option than to breast feed her. My Dr gave me a prescription to boost my supply and it has been a night and day difference, I can actually hear her chugging my milk now. I have never responded well with a pump, and have always been told babies are better at removing milk than a pump, so don't base your supply on what you get from a pump. It is a physically, mentally and emotional journey, but always remember fed is best. Hope you find something that works for you and your baby!
Thank you for sharing your journey, and speaking so openly Jeannie! I don’t have kids, but these are the conversations that are eye opening and prepare people for the reality of experiences with having them. Much love to you, J, and Monaco!
Thank you for sharing this story Jeannie 💕💕💕 After my son was born , I was over supplying during my time at the hospital. I had bottles and bottles worth. As soon as I came home, that supply went down hill from there. I was only able to pump droplets and on top of that, my nipple wasn't able to erect or stay erect for long, even with baby contact. I was taking fenugreek tablets, eating porridge, talking teas, seeing a maternal health nurse, massaging my breaths, having as much baby contact etc and still little supply.
I was feeling so deflated and a failure as a mum that I couldn't provide this liquid gold to my son. He was 1month premature as well and so I felt lien it was my responsibility to make sure he was getting the nutrients from my milk. It was my first time as a mum and it was the most challenging for these first few months.
Unfortunately, after many tries and attempts, I gave up on myself and for a long time I felt guilty for not trying enough or a little harder or seeking more help and advice. Rather, I turned to formula early on to help him "bulk" up. Whilst I've accepted that period of time and the decisions I made, I wish I gave more time to learn and tried other ways to increase my supply.
Motherhood teaches you so many things about yourself Jeannie. We may not always make the best decisions in that moment, but that's ok. It's life and motherhood is not perfect. We learn so much about both ourselves and our children. I've learnt to accept my "mistakes" and seek help when I need it. We as mums need to learn to uplift one another and not judge each other by our supply/lack of supply in breast milk. We don't know someone else's journey or judge until we have been in their shoes.
Let's look after one another ladies because I'll tell you what, being a mum is one of the hardest jobs in the world. Don't beat yourself up if you make mistakes, that's part of this wonderful role of being a mum.
Sending you lots of love and positive vibes your way Jeannie. Look after both yourself and bub and look after your mental health during this time. It's precious, but you learn so much along the way.
Love from Australia 💕🥰
Momcozy wearable pump and the haakaa are the reason I’m successful. You nailed it. Letting your body relax is the key. I lost my supply when I dealt with a bout of bad anxiety and it came back as soon as I got that handled.
This makes me look back at when I had my son. I was stressing and in a dark place at one point because all I wanted was to be able to breastfeed and produce enough milk. I was exclusively pumping for the first month of his life and then he finally latched.. but it wasn't enough milk and k had to do alot of the same things as you Jeannie. I did supplement with formula as well, but I ended up breastfeeding on demand and it worked out even still sometimes supplementing when needed. My journey lasted 15 months and I don't regret not one thing! Your doing amazing and YOU are the best mom for Monaco!!!❤️
Breastfeeding is SO hard. I have respect for women who can do it. I struggled with my first and due to mental health had to close up shop. My second baby I decided my mental health needed to take priority and didn’t bother. Soooooo much better!
At the end of the day fed is best. So glad for you finding what works!
Hi! You’re doing a great job! My daughter wouldn’t latch, so I exclusively pumped for 10 months. It nearly drove me mad, but I had success (or so I believe) because I drank a lot of coconut water. That really boosted my milk supply when it went down. I also massaged my breasts while pumping. A lactation consultant told me to do this and it was magic. It nearly doubled what I was able to produce when I massaged each breast while pumping. It made the sessions longer because I pumped one side for 20 minutes and and then the other for 20 minutes. I also agree that the tool you use to pump makes a huge difference. My pump was amazing and could suck milk out of an almond it was so powerful. Most of all my best advice is to do what’s best for your mental health and don’t let anyone guilt you one way or another; you know what’s best for you and Monaco. Good luck on your journey!
You are awesome for doing all you did and not giving up. Yes we moms go through so much after having a baby. We are expected just to have the baby and go back to life like normal when we just experienced a life changing moment. These things need to be talked about more and we mom need more resources.
“Colostreum” 😂 😂 that graphic of the ancient colosseum had me cracking up. As a breastfeeding capricorn, I get the struggle! Thanks for sharing your journey Jeannie!!!
Also highly recommend getting a lactation consultant to come to your house to give you personalized tips. And an portable electric pump like Elvie helped me to pump consistently after going back to work.
I know so many women relate to this! My number one tool was a breastfeeding consultant (came free with my insurance, just make sure you ASK) so many failed breastfeeding experiences come from lack of knowledge.
#2 EATING ENOUGH CALORIES!
#3 Like you said, drinking enough water is extremely important! I also drank tons of Gatorade to have more electrolytes
#4 Having the mindset that this is what your breasts are created to do. Ease up on just focusing on failing and focus on the fact that you’re doing the best you can!
#5 Having support. Having the time and ease to just bond with my baby without having to worry about cooking every single meal or doing all of the cleaning, etc.
Welcome back Jeannie with my first child i experience alot breastfeeding. But with patience i figure it out, and it all worked out. As you go along things will become more easier, you can do it Jeannie. Proud of you 👏 💛 ❤ 💓
Power Pump helped me produce more! Pump for 20 min, rest for 10, pump for 10, rest for 10, pump for 10. Do it as much as you can and stay hydrated and eat protein rich foods! Supplements are a temporary solution. I exclusively pumped but stopped because I had to cut wheat, dairy, peanuts and soy due to his allergies and I was going nuts. It can be so difficult but with this formula shortage, stick it out mama! ALSO COCONUT WATER!!!!!!
I pumped for 7 months
Fed is best! Don’t worry mama! You’re doing great 🥰
My daughter is 14 months and still drinks breast milk. When she was a newborn I would feed her whenever she wanted, whether it be within 2 hrs or less than 10 mins. Oatmeal definitely made my supply go up. I was making 2-3oz each side and after 3 days of oatmeal for breakfast, I went to 4-6oz each side. I also took sunflower lecithin daily to prevent clogs. I’ve heard that fenugreek can actually dry up your supply 😢
Fenugreek upped my supply.
@@prissieke it tends to up it at first making you think but over time it decreases it and there’s currently research on this. It’s called a galactagogue. The way to up your supply is hydration and moving milk. Moving milk signals your body to make more. There’s many factors to this.
@@Vickylee576 yes. I know all this. I did the above as well. Pumped, on demand, used galactagogues and still drink piles of water. Just putting it out there that fenugreek helped me up supply as well.
@@prissieke then it probably wasn’t the feunergreek but ok 👍🏽
As someone who’s never been pregnant or experienced breastfeeding, I am really grateful for you sharing your experience and helping people like me, who might want children in the future, have a realistic understanding of some potential difficulties one might meet. I can only imagine how discouraging this fight would have been when one feels all alone, being unaware that many other mothers experience it too. It sounds to me like you are doing everything in your power to overcome this hurdle, and I only hope you allow yourself to breathe and relax a little every now and then too. I am so impressed with all that you are doing for your child, and I admire that you are open about the reality of your motherhood experiences. Wishing you and your little family all the best! - Lots of love and appreciation from Norway
We missed you so much Jeannie Mai
As up to date as you usually are, Jeannie, I am really surprised you
didn’t read up on breastfeeding, get info from your doctor, or contact a lactation specialist. Your “people” were slacking, girl! Hang in there, breastfeeding is a blessing!
Hey Jeannie... Happy Belated 1st Mother's Day to you. Thank you for always sharing with us. Can't wait to meet Ms. Monaco 🙏❤️💕. It's ok, I wasn't able to breastfeed my son to much. It was only a week or two. I felt so bad because I couldn't do it. Then I realized it's ok Michelle James is still going to live and he's going to be just fine. 25 years later he's just Fine, Great, Smart, Intelligent, Educated, Healthy, and has a Beautiful ❤️. God bless you 😊❤️😅✔️🙏💕
Thank you for speaking on this super important topic. 7 days post partum, in the middle of the night, my youngest started having latch problems, she wouldnt drink any milk at all. I called the hospital bawling asking what I should do and they told me to get a breast pump and feed her that way. After many nurse visits, doctor visits, lactation consultant sessions, it was determined she had jaw issues. And so began my exclusive pumping journey. I didnt even know that was a thing! So every 3 hours, for almost 6 months, I pumped. My life was consumed with watching the clock to see when it was time to pump yet, pumping, cleaning pump parts, massaging my boobs during pumping (that helped increase my supply to the point that I couldnt pump without doing that). Eating a bunch of calories, drinking a bunch of water, taking all the supplements and lactation cookies to increase my supply. I was tired, overwhelmed, gaining weight, and my boobs were sagging and I no longer recognized myself.
Trying to manage my household, cook, clean, take care of my baby and my 5 year old...I. WAS. A. HOT. MESS.
It was taking a toll on me mentally and I decided to stop pumping so I slowly weaned myself off of pumping and gave her formula instead and wow, I started enjoying my baby more because I was no longer stressing about how much milk I was producing and if she was eating enough.
A doctor once told me that even after going through medical school, breastfeeding was the hardest thing she has ever done in her life. It's so important we women share our stories and build a community because this mommy-ing stuff ain't easy.
Thank you for sharing your story and wishing you nothing but continued success in all that you do. Congrats mama! You're doing the damn thing :)
When I was breastfeeding my son, everytime I would feed him on my breast, but then afterwards I immediately would pump. My supply went up to like 5oz each boob. So 10 oz altogether. And I worked full time so it was like clockwork when the baby wasn’t with me, I’d pump my whole 15 minute break, then my 30, then my 15. Just pumping as much as possible, staying hydrated, staying fed myself, and not really getting into my own head. And my supply shot up. But sometimes that isn’t the case for some women, some women just can’t or even plain out don’t want to and that’s 100% okay, that’s why there’s formula. A fed baby is a happy, healthy baby.
I was able to breastfeed my baby while he was in NICU and I think it had to do with constant skin to skin. I actually didn’t get to meet my baby for the first time til three days after he was born, he was in nicu and I was in a different hospital because I just had hysterectomy to remove the cancer that was spreading all over my uterus. So, the skin to skin really enhanced my journey with my baby I also was able to use the medella breast pump the hospital provided to me. I didn’t get to continue my breastfeeding journey because I had to start chemotherapy for the cancer. It was really hard to not be able to have that bonding experience with my son, and also hard to wean off the milk supply. All in all, a fed baby is a happy baby!!!!! Don’t stress yourself out as much, I know that is easier said than done but regardless of method of feeding your baby will bond with you and love you all the same. Thank you for sharing your REAL journey with us. I know so many moms appreciate it and relate to it. ♥️
I had such a hard time with producing milk as well! At 3 months, I was still producing drops. I ate oatmeal a lot, drank lots of water, and tried to sleep as much as possible (for some reason, I noticed a slight increase in production after I eat salmon too). Also, to help with clogged ducts or just the flow overall, wrap warm sticky rice in a cloth and massage your breasts. At 6 months, I was producing about an ounce ever hour. You're doing great, keep it up!
This was brave! It takes a lot to speak about a challenging moment during motherhood especially since we and everyone else get the idea that it’s “just what moms do”. Something I did was nursing my son every hour and a half for the first 3 weeks and allowing him to bring the milk down for the first 6 weeks without pumping. Most specialist will encourage you to wait on pumping and sometimes some will encourage it sooner. Sounds like you are motivated and doing your best. That is enough. I struggled breastfeeding my twin girls and stayed hopeful for my son. It’s been a year and 2 months. Echoing your advice lots of stimulation will help even your own and hand expressing helps a lot for me. Also getting rest as best as possible and looking at my baby while feeding. Those chemicals released while looking at baby are so powerful. You got this! There’s so many different things that can work and naturally God put it in us to do it or find the help to get it done.. nevertheless..
Bottle fed and breast babies are all amazing miracles. 💛
I was waiting for you to talk about this for a long time thank you it was so hard for me I didn't understand why I couldn't produce enough for my son I was depressed but look at us now 16 months of exclusively breastfeeding ❤
The let down process and getting to know your body is so important. Breastfeeding is metaphysical, mental and all about presence. Once you become aware of the let down process your body will produce milk in a parasympathetic way. It’s why hearing your baby’s cries can cause milk production. Sometimes this system won’t work - for many reasons. Just do the best your body can do. A single ounce of breast milk is a game-changer for child. Stay strong, calm and in touch with your body and your baby.
Omgsh! I can relate...I was so frustrated because I wasn't producing enough milk. I felt like such a failure, worrying was taking its toll. I ended up utilizing baby formula because the milk supply was very inefficient. I give you so much props for keeping with it.
Years later by happenstance, I was told that if someone has polycystic ovary syndrome it will greatly effect the ability to produce milk...and it made sense because I had surgery before my 3 boys to remove an ovary due to a cyst. I'm not sure if someone with PCOS can still have a successful breastfeeding journey, I hadn't looked into it. I think the mental and emotional exhaustion weighs even heavier if it doesn't turn out as we want. I really had to battle the disappointment as well as the feelings of failure.
Grace for your mommahood journey. Sending you love, hugs, and good vibes to walk this out.💖
Jeannieeee I missed you girl !!!! So happy you got a chance to bond with Monaco. I’m not a mom/have breastfed yet, but I don’t doubt that you got this! Thank you for sharing your journey with us ❤️🤱🏻👩🏻🍼
My breastfeeding journey was very similar to yours. Down to the T. Except, I never got a chance to produce more than a few mL’s each pumping session. And my daughter was born with a tongue tie that prevented proper latching. The fact that I couldn’t give my baby “the best” made me so depressed. I had to change my mindset because I was going down a very dangerous spiral for my mental health. I had to stop breastfeeding altogether because more than breastmilk my baby needed a healthy, present mom. Once we switched over to a formula that suited her, my mind came out of the dark clouds and I was able to bond so much better. Breast feeding didn’t allow me the ability to bond due to overthinking the pumping schedule, counting ounces, cleaning pump parts, AND making sure I took care of her other needs as well as my own. I was on auto pilot, and to be honest, barely even looked my baby in the eyes. Formula allowed me the capacity to focus on eye contact, smiles, giggles, and cuddles. I will never regret the switch. I owe my ability to stay present and respond accordingly to her wide range of needs (in and out of feedings) to formula. Now I can take one look at that baby and know what she needs. And that confidence is everything.
Same Jeanie !
My breast milk didn’t come in until 2 -3 months ( 3-4oz each pump) . I had the same goal oriented depression, the supplement search, the anxiety around the advertisement overproducing moms( I started blocking these advertisements). The search for everything to assist with increasing my supply & supplementing with formula.
Now looking on the other side, I’m 9 months in and we are producing 8-10 oz each pump. I would tell my 1-6 week pp self, you are doing great mom and giving your baby what he needs.
I’m proud of sticking by it but it was a long, emotional role. I wish more people talked about the big emotional, physical and mental commitment that happens around breastfeeding when it is not easy for the mom. Thank you for sharing !!😘
So glad you did this episode 😊, I'm almost one year on my exclusive breast feeding journey, it has been extremely hard! I'm just so grateful to my circle of mamas who helped me along. The best advice i got is
1. You will produce as much as your baby needs, growth spurts will be the hardest as they tend to cluster feed to signal your boobs to increase supply. These were the hardest as baby live on my boobs.
2. That i came across the haaka and read and watched reviews so many times before DS was born, the haaka pump is the only one i used and i was able to pump about 10 oz a day on a good day. On days i got about 2 oz i knew baby was cluster feeding and didn't pump on those days. ❤️
This is a beutyfull story I'm so proud of your journey I hope alot of mom's remember that they are amazing and it doesn't matter if your breastfeeding or feed formula just that your trying and you absolutely are doing your best there still feeding thats all that matters try not to stress your self let your body relax from time to time and also have time you your self you are very important remember that and your doing your best bless you mothers and parents out there that are going True difficultly feeding and some times even conceiving my heart goes out to you hope you all have a wonderful blessed day
Thank you for being so real Jeannie ❤💕
Hi Jeannie I just wanted to say one thing about you feeling your uterus every time Monaco nurses. This is because breast-feeding mothers uterus contracts every time the baby feeds which is helping the uterus get back to normal size much faster than non-breast-feeding mother. I was mine blown too when I found out. Our bodies are such miracles❤️ Congratulations to you and Jeezy. Much Love Always❤️
Girl, same same same. I went through the exact same thing! Fellow Capricorn that felt compelled to breastfeed. I ate so much oatmeal, supplements, pumped constantly, and drank so much water that I peed more frequently than my baby. I massaged myself frequently and had the willow which helped me pump more frequently with needing to be hands free to take care of a baby. I made it 8.5 months and I'm proud of every ounce I was able to give my baby because it was hard work. My boy is 15 months old now and thriving.
Remember that you are a goddess that literally created life. Remember to pat yourself on the back for all the hard work you are doing. You are a queen!
I want to say bravo to you Jeannie Mai! I am so happy you did not quit breastfeeding. It is not easy and can change with each baby. I breastfed my twin boys for 18 months. I read everything before and during. Used the football hold & rented the industrial pump. as you can imagine I needed to pump a lot of bottles to leave for a few hours and that was only to go to the mother of twins support group in Brooklyn. no real problems.Then my daughter came along 8 years later and she was difficult. Problems latching, cracked nipples & breast infection. I was crying too, but I got the meds for the infection, stuck with it and nursed for 2 years. You have to get sleep, drink water and eat enough calories to produce the milk "liquid gold". And have someone cook and clean for you. You are doing a great job! Keep it up.
So sorry to hear about such difficult breastfeeding experiences…I had to be totally relaxed when doing so.
I found that the more I ate a good plate of food just before or while breastfeeding, the more milk I produced. No vitamins or breast pump, just good ole home cooked meals.
I would also lay down and breastfeed, it was less painful during the first 6-8 weeks. I started pumping milk to see how much my babies were drinking because they would projectile vomit as they were overly fed. Also to let their father and other relatives help out so I could have some rest. The moment I started dieting, the less milk I produced, so I delayed weight loss till I weaned the baby to formula and food.
With both kids it took me about a month to fully produce enough for both. I also went from pumping to nursing which also took me and the kids about a month to master. I discovered the haakaa about 2 months into my first baby and whoa game changer! I was able to store so much milk and save it for when I went back to work. I exclusively nursed at home and pumped at home. The clogged ducts are real! I also had one on my nipple with my 2nd baby. I poked it with a clean needle (not recommending this to anyone) and milk squirted! So painful! So happy you’re powering through!
Seeing that some people have such a difficult time breastfeeding makes me feel horrible for having such a great experience. I have twin boys who are 6 now. When they were born I breastfed them both. After feeding them I would easily pump over 12oz per breast. Easily totaling 24+ oz. every session. I was literally a cow. Milk was everywhere. In my fridge, freezer, diaper bags (breastmilk is good sitting out for over 8hrs) it was horrible and ultimately the reason I stopped when they were 2 months. Even after I did stop I still had pumped enough milk to exclusively breastfeed them for 4 more months. Sending love your way! You got this!
Hi Jeannie! Thank you so much for bringing attention to this issue! I too had low milk supply for all three of my children. I tried every method you showed on this video and also had mastitis and clogged ducts. Also anytime I would try to pump to keep up with my micropreemie daughter in the NICU, I would also have instant SCARY depressive feelings. I felt so guilty she was born so small because of me and that I couldn’t even produce enough milk for her on my own. I found out that I have a severe form of a condition called D-MER (dysphoric milk ejection reflex) that causes a physiological imbalance leading to my depressive and stressful episodes when I eject milk. After talking to my doctor, she reminded me that “fed is best” and that I shouldn’t have to kill myself mentally just to try to breastfeed. That took so much weight off my shoulders so after 3-4 months, I decided to let the formula take over most of the duty. As long as your baby is fed one way or another, you are doing your job! Just wanted to share my story incase it helps other moms who have gone through the same. 🙂
I keep forgetting Monaco is a girl. 😮
I’m so glad you are being transparent about your breastfeeding journey. I have 5 kids and breastfed all of them. The first one was really hard and after 3 months I gave up and went to bottle feeding. Like you, I also had a hard time because no one tells you the amount of work that goes into it. They also don’t tell you how tiny babies tummies are and that they don’t need 2oz of milk every 2 hours. Your body knows how much to produce based on how much baby takes in and you can know that by the weight they are gaining or losing. Do your research if this is something you wish to continue doing. Find a community of women that also breastfeed. Join Facebook/ Instagram groups that you can reach out to and will help you along the way. No matter what you choose to do whether breastfeed or bottle feed, that decision is what’s best for you and your baby.
I did lots of research before having to choose what I was going to do the next time. It was a much smoother process and I knew what to expect. That isn’t to say that every breastfeeding journey with each child isn’t different, because it is. Pumping is also not a great indicator of how much milk you produce each feeding. The motion of a baby suckling is very different than a machine. Continue to do research and I wish you the best of luck on this journey, you and Baby Monaco will have a beautiful bond.
Oh Jeannie I love the way your share your journey into motherhood. I’m not a mother but I can understand how frustrated it’s can be to not be able to breastfeeding. Hopefully you find your special stuff (I forgot the name).
Can’t wait to see more episodes of your journey 🤗
Hi Jeannie. Your whole experience sounds exactly like mine and so many women i know. You struggle and struggle and then BOOM it works! And when it works, its the best experience of your life, the bonding and calmness you feel with your baby is heavenly.
Hello I'm a huge fan! I'm a mom of 3. I also struggled the first and 2nd time to breastfeed. I figured it out but it took a lot of time. When my 1st was born I think I assumed things will come naturally because naturally our body's are made for feeding. I was wrong. I was stressed because 1 night Remina cried for 2 hours until I produced enough milk to give her. Remina latched on with no problem but the first time she had a bottle of pumped milk she didn't want the actual breast. I learned that the few times I wasn't producing enough could had been effected due to not drinking enough water, having to much coffee, not enough sleep, and to much stress. I also had mastitis. Overtime water, sleep and shower were my best friends. I pumped for 12 months for Remina because she didnt want the breast. My 2nd child came and I knew this time around I would not introduce a bottle. Well little Miss. Ajna was tongue tied so she struggled with latching on. Ajna had her tongue clipped but sometime afterwards I had mastitis again and I was starting to stress so a nurse recommended I see a lactationest. I seen the lactationest 3 to 5 times and boy was she a game changer. I learned that no antibiotic will cure mastitis. Hot showers and massage will do the trick. Massage until the milk ducts are no longer clogged. Will be painful but such a relieve when it's all over with. She gave me a list of foods to avoid. She gave me a list of foods to eat. She encouraged me to sleep more. She also was nice to remind me not to worry. She showed me and reminded me ways to latch baby and hold baby. She was someone who was very supportive. She showed me to hand pump. I also learned to nurse while in the shower because I was most Relaxed in the shower and some thing about the shower made my breast have a let down( my breast would just squirt milk with no suction). The lactationest also taught me that by 3 to 4 months our body learns the baby and adjust to producing enough milk to the baby's liking. So u don't over produce and u don't under produce. The first 3 months are rough and I feel like we should be reminded so we're not going crazy putting ourselves down assuming we're the worst moms for not figuring it out. When baby number 3 came I knew to drink lots of water, sleep every chance I could and tried not to stress. I took showers 2 times a day sometimes just because it relieved stress or to know there was nothing more beautiful and intimate then nursing while relaxing in the shower. I was even able to produce enough milk to store for my niece. I filled our 2nd freezer full. I was very proud. I think a few big things is to know that whatever the outcome of ur journey is, don't be so hard on urself. You just had a baby, your body is adjusting to ANOTHER change in such a short time. Your doing everything you can to be the best mother you can be. You should never beat yourself up for working hard and doing ur best. Relax and wind down. The more you do so, the easier things are to manage. Also everyone is different. So everything is a trial and error until you find what works best for your body, like showers worked for me. Maybe if you keep your baby's blanket close by to smell that will help, or start drinking your water 30 mins before pumping. If massaging helps your milk flow then maybe you can massage ur breast a few mins before you pump or feed. I think its also good to be reminded this is not permanent. Enjoy this beautiful time! CONGRATULATIONS ❤
What worked for me was feeding on demand, whenever at his request. Setting a schedule so rigid the first weeks are too stressful and stress is the number one enemy of breast milk production. After a went back to work, then a set a pumping schedule. I Brest feed for two years and 4 months. You are doing great mama, don't stress and go with your baby's flow.
I was able to provide 60% of breastmilk and the rest was formula. I remember crying in the doctors office because she was like “you have to go all in or give up” but she didn’t have much empathy that “going all in” was killing me.
I took a month break of trying and was able to pick it up again when I was in a better mental space.
The willow (wireless) pump helped me a ton because I could move around in it and sleep in it. Also switching flange sizes helped a TON.
Thank you for talking about this and I’m so sorry it was such a rough journey for you! I CANNOT say enough good things about the haaka!! I just had my first in February and it did take 6 days for my milk to come in which in the moment felt like a long time! I pumped every night before bed from the start because I was TERRIFIED of mastitis but that actually created an oversupply. Luckily though during my first three months I would use the haaka on the side she wasn’t feeding on and I was able to stockpile my freezer using only the letdown so I only have to pump now if I’m away from her for more than 3 hours!
U were missed! Missed ur happy and bright self ❤️ The struggle sounds real. I am currently in my early pregnancy, and am grateful for any and all information!
Congratulations,may your pregnancy be safe and smooth sailing
Reminds me of what I went through, I refused to give up and I can tell you that you will get to a place where you’ll feel that you reach your goal whether you produce enough or need to supplement With both breast milk and formula. I discover this drink bodyarmor that many moms swear by and immediately after this drink I started making double of what I would normally produce. I hope this helps you in some way or another and congrats on your baby!
Please continue to share about your journey we are in this together. As a new mom and breastfeeding mom there’s a lot of things that are new to me. New terms ! New everything!
Love your transparency, breastfeeding is hard AF! My milk supply didn’t come in until day 4/5 and I was only producing drops to about 10-20ml’s in the first week. I had to supplement for the first 3 weeks until I produced more. Around day 7 pp, I was still only producing about 1-1.5 ounces per pumping session and baby girl was taking 2-2.5 ounces per 2-3 hours. I ate oatmeal, coconut water, lactation cookies, legendary liquid gold capsules, mother’s milk tea, and go-lactation Moringa capsules… not sure which part of this combo helped the most, but it worked. I also rented an Amenda pump and pumped 8x’s a day and nursed. It was soooo exhausting. I almost quit multiple times.
It took about 3 weeks to build up my supply with that combo. I’m now 3 months pp and only doing breastmilk. I stopped having to supplement around 3-4 weeks postpartum.
Hey Jeannie!! Congrats on your bundle of love!! I nursed all 5 of our children for a year. From my experience with the different babies was remembering I was still eating for two after pregnancy. Your appetite automatically crashes as soon as you give birth and the business of Motherhood causes you to forget to eat. Less or no food will lower your production of milk. You still need the calories of pregnancy to keep it up. I would suggest nutrient rich meals and the Pre-natal vitamins. Side note: one of the perks for Mom breastfeeding is your body snatches back together very quickly. Nursing causes the uterus to contract and return to normal pre-pregnancy size and function while shedding of the baby weight faster. Hope this is helpful!! 😘😘🙏🏾
I applaud each and every single mom fighting to breastfeed even though you're not producing enough breast milk. I have an overproduction of breast milk that it wets everything, from my clothes to my bedding. I wish I can donate some of it