Breastfeeding with AF?

[Butterfliez]

I got the dreaded gastro bug last Wednesday, then thought I was over it, but it came back over the weekend. I have lost 3kgs in this short time. Feeding DD has been a huge effort, and at times like this I just wish she was FF. Yesterday she was being so fussy and didn't want to drink. Then this morning (as if I needed this) AF returned after 16 blissful months without it!!! Today, DD has been feeding fussy again and I am wondied she isn't having enough. Her nappies are not as wet as usual. So my question is, does your milk change taste with AF and how do I overcome this hurdle?

[the_queen]

Your milk doesn't "change" exactly - the taste does vary due to hormonal changes, so yes the return of your menses will have been the cause of recent fussiness. Perservere, she'll get back to normal very soon, I promise. My boy was fussy when I got mine back, but he got over it and now nearly 8 months later he's fine. I think it's like when you've been drinking rainwater your whole life, then move to the city and taste tap water for the first time... a bit weird, but hey we have to drink water don't we :biggrin: Your little darling will get used to it very soon.

[Funkychicken]

Oh, Jen, I know exactly what you are talking about!
I faced a very similar situation when AF returned after Hamish was born.
The_Queen is spot on with her description of taste changes. Most likely you will find within 1-2 days she will be back drinking as per usual.
Is she onto any solids yet? If so, don't stress too much about her getting enough to eat. In fact even if she isn't on solids, she won't intentionally deprive herself of food.

I found I had a few occasions when Hamish became fussy like this-especially in the first few months after AF returned-and usually in the few days leading up to each visit by AF. I kept a supply of Fenugreek on hand (you ca buy it in health food shops-Natures Own brand)and this helped tremendously with my supply. It is a bit like a back up for when bub doesn't drink as much.

Take some time to rest yourself too. Being unwell and breastfeeding takes its toll on our bodies and this doesn't help supply either. Drink as much water as you can handle and rest at every chance you get.
Take care and all the best. :hugs::goodvibes::goodvibes::hugs:

[Butterfliez]

Thanks girls, I hope she does get back to normal, Eva has been pulling off, crying all day and I am exhausted!! Glad to hear it should only be for a couple of days. She is on solids now, so that makes me feel a bit better that she is still eating that. I might get some Fenugreek too, thanks Sal. :hugs: