short nursings?

[lazfam]

Hi there,
DS has been shortening his nursings rather dramatically. A lactation consultant came over and did a weigh and said that he wasn't getting enough and I had to keep bringing him back and forth to each breast to get another let down. She said he was impatient for another one. I did that for 3.5 weeks while he cried and we spent the ENTIRE time he was awake nursing and taking breaks and nursing and so on. Then I decided I couldn't handle it and when he'd pull off and fuss/cry I'd just offer him a top off with a bottle. He took it. Then he stopped taking the bottle and would only nurse for a short while, stop and take nothing else. I took him in for a weigh and he gained 1.4 lbs in 2 weeks. So, that seems good. But, then again...the lactation consultant said based on his weight, he wasn't getting enough. I'm pretty confused. We're considering reflux. But, his pediatrician thinks it's not a "real" thing unless you have bloody stools and you're projectile vomiting. He doesn't have that. But, he does spend most of the day spitting up or vomiting. Truly, most all day long. He's quiet gassy too. My daughter did have reflux, my husband does and so does his father. I thought that maybe has he was nursing, some came back up in his throat and it upset him. I've tried nursing him in different positions. sometimes it helps, other times not. After he's done nursing, I pump and generally get 1.5oz out. Thoughts?

[~ Vik ~]

Hi there

Gaining 1.4 lbs in only 2 weeks seems like a big weight gain to me...  How old is your lo?  Is he having plenty of wet/poopy diapers?  What does his ped think of his growth and weight gain?

I had to keep bringing him back and forth to each breast to get another let down. She said he was impatient for another one.

Have you tried http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=88759.0 ?  If he is impatient with the slower flow of milk compressions may help him empty the breast better.

We're considering reflux. But, his pediatrician thinks it's not a "real" thing unless you have bloody stools and you're projectile vomiting. He doesn't have that. But, he does spend most of the day spitting up or vomiting. Truly, most all day long. He's quiet gassy too.

Reflux is definitely a possibility...  There are much more symptoms than just bloody stools and projectile vomiting   Have you seen http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=654.0 ?  It has a pretty comprehensive list of symptoms, might be worth looking over to see if anything strikes a chord with you.  You might also find some information here helpful if you need to have another discussion with your doctor:  http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=141423.0

Here are some other links that you may find helpful:
http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=94121.0
http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?topic=65904.0

I know I've thrown a lot of links at you, but have a look when you have some time and let us know what you think.  I hope something here is helpful!

[lazfam]

Hi there, Yes, I agree the weight gain is good. I went to the reflux 101 link and DS has almost every symptom. My pedi was supposed to call in my prescription (after handing me my a**). I went to pick it up today and it was never called in. grr... DS's breath smells like vomit. That acidy bile smell. I don't "want" to give him medication. But, I also want his comfort. I want him to enjoy eating and sleep well. He's such a sweet little boy...

[~ Vik ~]

 :'(  poor little guy  :'(

You must be so frustrated with your doctor and this whole situation. Did you get the prescription settled? It's so hard to think about giving our los medication, but if that's what they need to be pain free and eat, sleep and grow well then so be it.  In the meantime, those short frequent feedings may be really soothing for your lo. Many reflux babies feed that way, as the milk soothes their throat and the smaller volumes in their stomach don't reflux up as much. You can also hold him upright for 15 minutes or so after feedings, and use a wedgeto elevate the head of his crib. Until the medication takes effect these measures can help make him more comfortable.

I would definitely recommend you pop over to the http://babywhispererforums.com/index.php?board=13.0 board, you will get tons of support and ideas from moms who have been there.

Big (((hugs))) and good luck, I hope things get sorted for your little guy quickly!
Vikki

[Jiinx]

lazfam..I wish I could offer advice but I have a lot of empathy!! My dd dramatically decreased her time feeding BUT she is gaining weight as far as I know (haven't been to the dr for a few weeks..). She is soooo different at my breast - latching on and off more than I can count. I spent an hour feeding her but it was such inconsistent feeding. She's not crying during the feed but she cries after she "finishes"..oi I hope it's a phase that grows out. I just wanted to tell you that you're not alone and huge HUGS! xx keep us posted on how he does!

Trust your instincts. You're the mommy and you know your lo best. If you think something's up - it most likely is! Keep at it until you find answers