Breastfeeding question

February 23, 2004

I am sure this question has been asked before, but.....Do we get

enough of what ever we need to actually breastfeed? I hope that that

question doesnt sound dumb. I want to breast feed this time, I didnt

with my first child, partly cause I was so young and I had to rush

back to work at 6 weeks. I read in the What to expect book that

breastfeeding women should increase their calories by 500 a day. I

am eating alot more since I got pregnant. I eat alot of fruit and

salads, but I'm not sure how many calories I get a day. I am 16

weeks and I have lost 10lbs total. I had lost 5lbs from my first to

my second visit and my doc didnt seem too pleased. She told me to

make sure I eat, like I was doing it on purpose. For me I feel like

I eat all the time. Anyway, any advise will be appreciated. I keep

going back and forth on my decision.

Thanks

mom to , 11 years old

edd 8/04

February 23, 2004

First off, congratulations! Now on to the breastfeeding question.

If you are eating a healthy diet, and most WLS'ers do, do not concern

yourself with actual calorie counts! For now the goal is a healthy

prgnancy/baby. Assuming that all goes well, and there's plenty of

data to say that it will, breastfeeding can be intitiated just as

with anyone else. I would encourage you to hook up with a certified

lactation consultant for support & questions. She can have access to

your medical records and give advice tailored to your situation.

Keep on top of your labs, and remember you need water! Pregnancy

stresses the kidneys a bit anyway, so do your best to drink! If you

have other questions, feel free to email me privately.

Jennfer D. Hill, RN, IBCLC

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