Supplementing with Formula
Last week Parker had his ninth month check up with his doctor. I asked if he might not be getting enough breast milk. My doctor told me that he requires 24-32 ounces of milk per day and asked how much he was getting. That’s a hard question to answer, as there is no measurement gauge on my breast.
As I am away from Parker doing my practicum three times a week, I pump for those days. His grandmother cares from him during that time and reports that he often wants more milk than I have provided. I have not been able to pump more than three ounces. So I made the assumption that he gets approximately three to four ounces at each feeding. Some quick math revealed that if he gets only three ounces than he is not getting the recommended amounts and the doctor said I should introduce formula as a supplement.
Our very first attempt at breastfeeding.
I was torn as to whether I should follow her advice or not. Firstly, this was only our second time seeing this doctor and she didn’t seem familiar with Parker’s chart (she had no idea that he had allergies, specifically to cow’s milk protein). I also felt that she didn’t take the time to evaluate the situation. Secondly, she didn’t explain how to supplement with formula. I have breastfeed exclusively for 9 months, I have no idea how to introduce formula now and she didn’t seem to have the time to explain it.
I love breastfeeding; the ease of feeding my baby, the knowledge that I’m doing what is best for him and the bond that we share is an amazing experience. However, if I’m being honest about it, supplementing with formula would take some pressure and stress off of me with regards to the pumping situation. I feel a lot of pressure to supply bottles to my childcare provider and I tend to get very stressed about it, especially when I am not able to pump enough in one sitting for one feeding. Supplementing with formula would relieve me from some of those feelings.
With that said, I certainly do not want to give up breastfeeding. I also do not want to leave my child wanting for more. What to do? Can I do both? Should I do both?
~Sarah
Labels: bottle, Breast feeding, formula, Sarah
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