I just gave birth on the 12th to a baby boy. He was not latching so well in the begining, and still having a little trouble, but is inproving. But I pumped my milk and finger fed him. I still do this a couple of times a day. Mostly I think for my asurance, that way I know he is getting something. I was wondering if this can cuase nipple confusion. I also don't allow pacifiers yet. so he sucks on my pinky alot (he Really likes to suck). is this okay?
Yeah, I don't usually use finger feeding in my practice because it does and can cause nipple confusion. Yes, it is flesh, but it is very rigid like a bottle nipple. I have seen babies with nipple confusion and getting "addicted" to the finger feeding. Cup feedihng a baby with this problem (a little medicine cup, with the baby in a sitting position, ask your LLL leader or LC for directions) is much better, if a baby is having latch problems (becaues you HAVE to get that milk into him.) eads, see an LC in your area, as you do know what you are doing,(cuz you've nursed a baby before, right?) and if the baby isn't latching, you and the baby need the help of a professional. Is he on the breast at all? If he is, and wetting at least 5 diapers day and having at least 3 stools of nice yellow mustard, and nursing at least every 2 hours or so, he IS getting enough and you can dispense with the alternative methods of feeding. He should also be gaining about 3-7 oz a week AFTER he gains back his birth weight. Congrats on your new baby! Post a pic if you have the time. Let me know how you are doing. I can find you an LC in your area, if you need one, too. Love and baby hugging, Maggie
Congratulations on your new bundle of joy. I agree with maggie she knows what she is talking about and is very helpful with any questions you may have on any thing. i know she helped me out so very much while i was pregnant and after i had my son. *HUGS* ~Fallen Fairy~
