[navyjoy1920]

I originally posted the below in another forum. I notice something different on this site every day. Thanks to those who have already provided advice. I really want to get as much info as possible. One of my friends mentioned I should start pumping so I can freeze milk. How long can I freeze it? Guess I need to get another book to read : )

I was so excited today because after a week of trying, I heard from not one- but two lactation consultants. Neither thought I was crazy for wanting to breastfeed. DH and i just finished our homestudy so I'm researching how to induce lactation. Not sure when we will be blessed with a child. Anyway, the lactation consultant mentioned reglin which she said has terrible side effects. She mentioned domperidone, which the FDA just issued a warning on, and fenugreek which I haven't heard much about. What works? Do I start with the supplementer and hope for the best? If the FDA issued a warning, why are so many websites still talking about the drug? Would really love to learn from someone's personal experience. The lactation consultant said I should begin pumping 6-8 weeks prior. Right now, I'm just a bit confused about what's so supposed to be a natural process : (

[odi]

You can store pumped milk for a long time in the freezer. I would highly recomend " The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" for general info. As well as caling your local Le Leche League look in the phone book. I do know that the herbs can help but the most important part is stimulating the breasts into their new job. Buy or rent a very good double electric pump and start pumping. I know it sounds odd because nothing will be there at first. Pump a few times a day for a few minutes until you build up to 6-8 times a day for 5-10 minutes (hence why I sais a douple pump so that you can do both sides at once). As milk appears save every preous drop Refer to the book for the best way.

That all being said It might be a lot of work so find some good support. A good lactation Consultant(board cetified prefered) and go to some Le Leche Meeting. Other moms are there for support too. They might have given birth but have had problems and are pumping just like you. Oh and when that baby arrives you will have some milk in the freezer and can give up the pump as the baby takes over with their job of stimulating you. They do a much better job so even if your supply never got big it might jump up when the baby gets to work. And keep in contact with the others to make sure it all keeps going good.

I have breastfed two bio babies (the first with weeks of pumping and supplementers) and am working on an adoption. My daughter will be coming from China and I don't know how old she will be so I am in a waiting mode.