10.03.2007

going herbal

So as I write this I am letting my cup of tea cool. This is special tea that mothers have been using for centuries (so says the box) to help milk flow. I'll try it all right about now. After a week of guessing, not pooping, now pooping and puking I really really really want to be a normal breastfeeding mom. I HATE the "breastfeed, give a bottle, and pump" cycle that I have to endure to encourage milk production. It makes my little Monkey frustrated when there isn't much for me to offer her which in turn makes me super sad.

I am having a very hard time keeping faith and a positive attitude right now. There are moments in the day when I want to curl on the bathroom floor and cry for an hour. Maybe I should take my pump in there...we could be friends. I hate feeling like I'm broken...like I've failed because logically I know that is not true. Unfortunately logic takes the occasional backseat these days.

She's doing better this week...we have more regular poops so at least she's getting enough finally. Hopefully the herbal horsepills and the tea will do something, and we are going to the lactation consultant on Friday. I don't know what they can do, but maybe just talking to someone about this will help.

Today was hard. for me that is. I just want things to be normal hard, not like this. I keep hoping that if this problem gets fixed that I will start to feel better emotionally. My body did a spectacular job of surviving natural childbirth, but my 'motions have not. I know Scarlett say that tomorrow is another day, and maybe that's what I have to cling to. With God as my witness she'll never go hungry again.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Logic and our tear ducts have NO communication during the fourth trimester. You are a wonderful mother. You are doing everything so well. Your baby is healthy, happy, nurtured, and growing. You have so much to be proud of. I will continue to pray thay your milk comes in. And that your motions take a few days off...or weeks...whatever :)

Anonymous said...

Hi Steph, this is Jen Sullivan. Beth directed me to your site. Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful daughter!

I have an 18 month old son, and I breastfed for 14 months. I promise you, it will get better. Hang in there, it is really tough in the beginning, but once you and your daughter get used to nursing, it will be an amazing bond that you will share. A lactation specialist can help a lot, both with nursing help and emotional support. It sounds like you are doing everything you can for your little girl. Try not to be too hard on yourself. All the best to you and your new family!