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I’m a mama who practices combination feeding, meaning my baby receives both breastmilk and formula. Due to damage to my milk ducts from two previous breast surgeries, exclusive breastfeeding hasn’t been an option for me.
My second son, Leo, arrived in November 2020 and latched on immediately. Unlike my first experience, his latch was excellent, and I felt optimistic. I thought that having my breast implants removed might increase my chances of a successful breastfeeding journey. However, by our second night in the hospital, we faced familiar challenges: Leo was losing weight, crying at the breast, and not sleeping well.
By the third day, Leo had lost 11.4% of his birth weight, despite my efforts to keep him nursing. I was advised to feed him, then supplement with formula or breastmilk, followed by pumping to stimulate my milk production. After returning home, we continued to struggle with his weight, and I was disheartened.
When Leo was five days old, I discussed my pumping difficulties with our public health nurse, who also happened to be an IBCLC. She suggested trying a supplemental nursing system (SNS), which involves placing a small tube in the baby’s mouth while breastfeeding, allowing them to receive additional nutrition through the tube. Given my previous experience with pumping, I was eager to explore this alternative.
Setting up the tube was a bit tricky and required an extra set of hands, but I loved the idea of feeding Leo while nursing, which helped avoid any confusion between breast and bottle. Plus, having him suckle at the breast was essential for stimulating my milk production, making the SNS doubly beneficial. With a busy preschooler at home, I appreciated any time saved.
I discovered that Medela offers a supplemental nursing system which can be worn around the neck for hands-free use. The milk or formula is stored in a bottle-like device that hangs at chest level, with tubes taped to my breasts for easy latching. I found a secondhand SNS from someone who had faced similar supply issues, and although it took practice, I was surprised at how manageable it was.
About ten days postpartum, I realized I needed additional help to boost my supply. I started taking domperidone and continued using the SNS for all of Leo’s feedings. As we adjusted the amount of the top-up, Leo began to gain weight, and within two weeks, the domperidone was helping my supply improve.
Through my sessions with the IBCLC, I learned that my milk ducts had likely been damaged during surgery, contributing to my supply challenges. Despite this, I was determined to provide my children with as much breastmilk as possible. At our last appointment, the IBCLC noted that my willingness to use the SNS was critical to salvaging our breastfeeding journey.
Now, at five months old, Leo is breastfed first and then receives a bottle top-up based on his needs. This system works wonderfully for us. While some may hesitate to try the SNS for various reasons, I believe there is a lack of awareness about its benefits. Many still think feeding tubes are only for those unable to eat independently. The SNS not only boosts milk production but also promotes a better latch, allowing parents to breastfeed when they might not otherwise be able to. Ultimately, we each must make choices that align with our values and lifestyles. Thanks to the SNS, I minimized pumping time, eliminated the need for it entirely, and created a fulfilling breastfeeding relationship.
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Summary:
A supplemental nursing system (SNS) significantly improved my breastfeeding experience with my second son, Leo. Despite challenges from previous breast surgeries that affected my milk supply, using the SNS allowed me to nourish Leo while breastfeeding. By integrating formula and breastmilk through the SNS, I was able to maintain a fulfilling breastfeeding relationship without the need for excessive pumping. This approach not only supported Leo’s weight gain but also created a sustainable and enjoyable feeding routine for us both.