Get answers on our
48 hour advice line.
Find out more


Soft on baby and softer on the earth
Find out more

Reducing breast feeds in preparation for return to work

Submitted by Fiona123 on Sun, 22/06/2008 - 17:44.

 

Question:

Hi Catriona,

Thank you for your advivce with the sleep situation. You will be happy to know L is on a 7 till 7 routine and only waking 2 to 3 times a night. Though the first time he wakes now is at his dream feed time (lol) :)

I'm returning to full time work in about 8 weeks time and am wanting to get organised. I need to drop my 11am and 3pm breast feed and change them over to formula. I started Sunday dropping the 3pm feed and replacing it with formula (Nan HA1 Gold - apparently it's easy to digest and L had a reaction to the S26 Gold - CHN at the local chemist recommended the Nan).

Feeling good about getting organised, but it's now 5:40pm and i feel liek my right breast is literally about to explode!! I'm SO full and SO sore...help.

I have previously read to drop a feed over a period of two weeks to avoid mastitis...is this correct? Can I 'relieve' some pressure but not give a feed e.g. express say 20 ml's to take the edge off?

What do you recomend?

I'm also planning on starting solids next Saturday (he's 19 weeks old and showing LOTS of interest)...will this be too much change too fast for his little digestive system?

 

Thanx, Fiona

Catriona's Response:

Hi Fiona

Yes, express off until you feel comfortable but don't empty your breasts. Slowly, over the course of about 3-5 days, they should feel much better. You can either hand, pump or get in the shower to express off when you are feeling uncomfortable. No need to be in too much pain, go slowly as you have plenty of time. Put some refridgerated cabbage leaves in your bra, this can help.  

Symptoms of mastitis are when your breast becomes very painful and red and you experience flu like symptoms.In that case, empty your breast fully by expressing, it is important you empty the blocked duct. Then get to your doctor asap for some antibiotics.

Regarding solids, it should be just fine. Just keep moving! Your bub should be having beef by 6 months to ensure he is getting the iron and zinc he requires in his diet.

It all sounds great. Take care. 



This response has been prepared by a health care professional on behalf of Baby Love in response to an email query. It is intended to be a general educational aid only. It is not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified child health care professional with any questions you may have regarding the health of your child. We cannot guarantee, and will not be responsible for any damage or loss related to the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the information or for any direct or indirect consequence relating to any action or inaction you take based on this email.