I'm sure you have noticed that we are very pro breastfeeding. Be reminded that 98% of women can make enough milk for their babies and that human milk is the perfect species- specific food for our little loved ones. But what if you have problems?

What if:

• Your baby can't latch or has difficulty staying latched at the breast?
• Your baby has lost more than 10% of his birth weight and isn't gaining back?
• Breastfeeding is so painful or uncomfortable for you that feeding the baby becomes a struggle?
• You are unable to produce milk either due to previous breast surgery, insufficient glandular tissue, or a medical condition that makes you unable to breastfeed?
• You have premies or multiples and aren't making enough milk to keep up with demand?
• You have a low milk supply?

Depending on the situation you may need to:

• Pump and give your baby breast milk in bottles rather than directly from the breast.
• Give your baby formula in addition to breast milk for a short period of time until the problem is resolved.
• Use formula as a long-term solution.

Remember that becoming a parent doesn't mean that things always go according to plan.   There are times that you willl need to keep your ground flexible which isn't always easy, that is for sure.

Info Tip:

If you do need to use formula it might be really hard to give up the idea of breast feeding. If formula does become necessary, you might still be able to give your baby breast milk as well as formula. In many situations you can do both.

Health Alert:

If you are having any of the above problems you should be working closely with a lactation consultant and your baby's doctor. Remember what is most important is to have a thriving baby.