Is it too late to start breastfeeding? Help please!

[ILoveCakee]

I had my baby on Tuesday and have been formula feeding since, but he's not taking the milk well and is very sick. I feel like I should at least TRY to feed him as this is his health and even though the idea makes me uncomfortable I have to put him first and know that I did what I could.

So, a few questions.

Firstly, is it too late to start? I can't afford a pump right now (which I read online would be a good idea) as none of this was planned and I just don't have any money.

Secondly, urm how do you do it? I have no idea how to breastfeed. I know, seems silly, but any advice would be great!

My milk just came in as yesterday my boobs got all heavy and have been leaking all over the place if that is relevant.

Just in a world I know nothing about now and could really use some help!

 

[Toms Mummy]

Are you still seeing midwife or is there a breastfeeding support group in your area who can help? I don't think you've left it too late as you still have milk but I wonder if you'll have latch issues due to
Baby being used to bottle, I think its worth having someone show you how to do it x

 

[ILoveCakee]

Are you still seeing midwife or is there a breastfeeding support group in your area who can help? I don't think you've left it too late as you still have milk but I wonder if you'll have latch issues due to
Baby being used to bottle, I think its worth having someone show you how to do it x

I feel uncomfortable with talking to other people about it (like I wouldn't want to get my boobs out in front of them lol), hubby and I tried it but he didn't seem to latch properly, and I presumed it is due to being used to the bottle instead so we're going to try again later (we tried for a really long time but baby started getting frustrated as too hungry lol)

 

[w8ing4bean]

I strongly suggest seeking help!! If u want this to work u will need to know how to get a good latch. Please dont feel uncomfortable or embarrased. We're all here to help but u really will benefit from seeing someone in person good luck! X

 

[ILoveCakee]

I strongly suggest seeking help!! If u want this to work u will need to know how to get a good latch. Please dont feel uncomfortable or embarrased. We're all here to help but u really will benefit from seeing someone in person good luck! X

If I wait until I can see someone then I may aswell just ask them for help with the formula/puking issue - the reason for trying to breastfeed was because it is sunday and there's nowhere open and I don't know what time tomorrow (if at all) I'll be able to get in to see a doctor/midwife

 

[w8ing4bean]

Try skin to skin. Do it when baby is content, in a quiet room. Dont rush things and baby should start to hunt around for the boob. U need to wait for him to open his mouth nice and wide and then quickly (but gently) shove ur boob in his mouth. If he just takes the nipple unlatch and keep trying

 

[ILoveCakee]

Try skin to skin. Do it when baby is content, in a quiet room. Dont rush things and baby should start to hunt around for the boob. U need to wait for him to open his mouth nice and wide and then quickly (but gently) shove ur boob in his mouth. If he just takes the nipple unlatch and keep trying

Thank you! I think the problem is him not getting much of the outsidey bit I don't have very sticky-out nipples so that might be the problem it is very very different from a bottle x

 

[Squiggy]

I highly recommend YouTube videos! Search for things like "proper latching", "breastfeeding" etc.


And try to let the mental discomfort pass. It really goes out the window when you put your baby on and tell yourself that you're doing something so wonderful for your baby. And the bonding experience is SO much better than bottle feeding (in my own experience and opinion). There's just an overwhelming feeling of love (and pride). Breastfeeding can be so mentally rewarding. I encourage you to at least try it and see for yourself.

 

[ILoveCakee]

I highly recommend YouTube videos! Search for things like "proper latching", "breastfeeding" etc.


And try to let the mental discomfort pass. It really goes out the window when you put your baby on and tell yourself that you're doing something so wonderful for your baby. And the bonding experience is SO much better than bottle feeding (in my own experience and opinion). There's just an overwhelming feeling of love (and pride). Breastfeeding can be so mentally rewarding. I encourage you to at least try it and see for yourself.

This is my second baby, with my first I formula fed too (though then I was on meds that meant I couldn't breastfeed so wasn't an option regardless), but I kind of thing it would be nice to just see how it feels since I don't plan on any more children it is my only chance!

My husband finds the whole thing weird too, but when we actually tried to get baby to latch on he stopped finding it weird and was perfectly fine with it lol. Going to try again later (after my 1 year old is in bed) x

 

[w8ing4bean]

Good luck hun!

 

[calliebaby]

A nipple shield could be a good tool for you.

 

[Nicolalove353]

I have flat nipples too and it does make it more difficult for him to latch on. I was told to squeeze my nipple so it is flat and then try to get him to latch. It is easier for them I guess. You might want to look into a nipple shield. It helps the baby latch onto a nipple that is flat and might be easier for him to latch on since he has been bottle fed. I only had to use the shield for a week and he finally latched on with out it.

I would really look into a bf support group or a lactation specialist. It was a bit uncomfortable at first to pop my boob out but you get used to it. I wanted him to get better at latching that I guess I didn't really care. Now I can pop it out in front of them and not care. They really are soooo much help and I really don't think I would still be bf if it wasn't for them.

Goo luck and I hope you are successful on getting him to latch.