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Old 01-25-2003, 06:50 PM
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live2bhappy2003 live2bhappy2003 is offline
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Breast or bottle

Hi, we adopted our baby within 24 hours after delivery, and we knew in advance by a month, of the pending delivery so I had time to try to get things working with the breastfeeding, and unless you're REALLY committed do doing this, I wouldn't recommend it. LaLeche league is wonderful to discuss these issues, do a search for them and they have a lot of information for you. Also, talk to your doctor or call an OB/GYN to see if you can get some information. ABC adoption website also has information.

I really wanted to nurse my baby, and even the birthmother advocated it! However, starting at about 6 weeks in advance by pumping your breasts, and the other things you can do, can be very time consuming and difficult, especially if you work.

In retrospect, I have regrets for not really putting 100% into this process. I think it would have been a wonderful bonding experience as you've suggested. I have two biological children who are full grown now, and I nursed them and it was really wonderful, and I'm so glad I did. With an adopted child, I think it is even more important in estabishing that bond, but I feel the formulas out there now provide ample nutrition for the baby, and you can bond by holding the baby in the same way as you would if you were nursing. My baby is 6 months old and I still hold her very close as if I was nursing.

One other thing and this may sound bizarre, is that I did initially try nursing when the baby first came home with us, but it turned out she did use me as her pacifier instead, even though I didn't produce milk. However, within a week, she quickly rejected me and chose where the milk REALLY was coming from, the bottle!

Anyway, there is a lot of great information out there, just look, it's quite popular these days, and I would try if you can!

Last edited by live2bhappy2003 : 01-25-2003 at 06:53 PM.
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