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chubbybubby
03-08-2006, 00:06
With my first son, I had a LOT of trouble breastfeeding. I had heaps of milk and really wanted to BF, but every time he came near me, I would POUR blood (I mean LOTS of blood) from my nipples and when feeding, the pain was excruciating. I was in hospital for five days and recieved lots of advice and help, and my health nurse was also a BF expert, but no-one could help me! Everyone said the pain and blood would go away - but it didn't. I would tense up when feeding, often in tears, so Harry would tense up, and it was just a disaster. After 6 weeks of pain and blood, it settled down a bit, but then Harry got a nasty cold and could not suck properly. So I gave up - I felt that feeding should be a bonding time, but it ended up being so painful that I truly dreaded feeding him. I figured it was better for both of us to bottle feed, and allow our relationship to grow - I did not want to resent my baby. And Harry certainly hasn't suffered from being bottle fed!

Anyway, we are hoping to have another baby next year and I really want to try again. I am not going to stress about it like I did with Harry - if it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen - but I want to give myself the best chance! Anyone have any tips? Is there anything I can do to prepare my body for breast feeding? I have really small boobs (its not fair!!) and no matter what people say, I think it makes it harder! Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

kadownie
03-08-2006, 08:56
Have you thought about joining the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA)? They have lots of resources and groups, as well as classes about breastfeeding.

There's nothing that I know of that you can do to prepare your body for breastfeeding- cause your body prepares itself. Though- I used Lansinhoh when my bubs were first born after every feed- it helps to prevent and heal cracked nipples- found it to be great! Definatley worth getting!

I'm sorry you had such a had such a hard time with your first- do you have a good support network? That's also something that will help a lot!