Breastfeeding

When I found out I was preggos with Levi, I knew then that I would breastfeed.  It's something I feel is very natural and beneficial to both baby and Mommy. That being said, I also knew that it's not for everyone and some new Mommy's who want to breastfeed simply cannot for one reason or another....so I crossed my fingers it would work for me and my newborn.

When Levi was born, breastfeeding just happened naturally for us - I had no issues from the get-go.  Of course there was some minor pain and getting used to the constant routine of feedings but Levi latched on fine and my body produced more than enough milk to meet his needs.

Fast forward to month 5 (well, we're just 3 days shy of 5 months!), breastfeeding has become more of a challenge.  Well, let me rephrase that - nursing is not the issue, it's producing enough milk that's the issue.  Since returning to work, I feel like my body cannot keep up with the demands of this growing baby boy.  I need 18 oz of milk per day to send with Levi to daycare and most days I get maybe 10-12 ozs when I pump throughout the work day.  Luckily, I have 'backup' milk that I was freezing while I was home with Levi those 1st three months.  BUT that's almost gone.  And I don't think we have any other option than to supplement with formula.  And if I may be honest here....it's disappointing me and I feel like my body is letting Levi down.  I really wanted to avoid formula...but I don't think we have another option at this point.  Being skinny is 'in' but not when you're five months old...and I cannot help but think that pumping so much and nursing less is causing the drop in my milk supply.

I know this is a long and a random post and basically what I'm saying is I'm going to punch myself in the face for slacking on the milk production.  I kidd.  I would never damage this Heidi Klum look-alike face of mine.  I guess I just needed to get it off my breast chest.

And don't worry about Levi - he's getting plenty to eat.  At our doctor's request, we started baby food (only carrots so far) and the boy LOVES his carrots.  My Mom could not believe how he was chowin' down on them, but I was not shocked.  Drew eats his weight in carrots every week...like father, like son they say.

Another update coming soon!

Peace & Love!

The Vetter's