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Expert Q&A

	By Ann Calandro BSN, RNC, IBCLC Lactation Consultant

I have tried everything when it comes to breastfeeding my daughter. She is 6 weeks old now. I have tried herbs. I have tried prescribed medications from my OB/GYN. I do not know what else to do.

I feed my daughter every three hours for 20 minutes on each side. She still screams like she is so hungry. All I have ever wanted to do is nurse my children. I have always had problems. I nursed my first son for two days, my second son for two weeks, my first daughter for one month and my second daughter for three months.

I am working on six weeks, but I am having severe problems. I have been talking with two lactation consultants. I have talked with a lady that rents hospital grade pumps. I have even tried pumping – I can only get 1/2 ounce out of each side. I have tried pumping and feeding at the same time. I really have tried everything. Please. I hope someone else has an idea for my situation. I really want to nurse my daughter. I do NOT want to give up."

You have shared with me all the things you are doing to breastfeed and also to increase your milk. What you have not shared is: How is your baby doing? Is she having six wet diapers a day? Three or more bowel movements? Is she content? Is she gaining weight? Are you supplementing with formula at this time?

In order to more fully understand your needs, I would need more information about what is going on. Right now I could encourage you to breastfeed more often – every two hours. I could ask you to have the baby's latch evaluated and to do a before and after feeding weight check (which you have probably already done).

I would love more information. Please write again. And remember you can successfully breastfeed even if you do not make all the milk for your baby. Breastfeeding is more than just food; it is a relationship. Nobody can take that away from you.

Sincerely,
Ann Calandro, RNC, IBCLC"

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