My Breastfeeding Problems and Donor Milk

by Renee
(Virginia)

I've always been an advocate for breastfeeding, so it was only natural that I myself would nurse my own children when the time came. I had helped other women along their journey and felt that nursing would be a piece of cake for me.

Sadly, that was not the case.

I made an error in judgment several years ago and had a breast augmentation and lift. I wasn't thinking about the possible complications I could have in the future with feeding my child(ren).

Had I really thought about it, I NEVER would have done it. Because of the surgery, I was unable to effectively nurse my children without assistance. I could produce the milk just fine but I couldn't release all that I was producing.

The surgeries had caused many of my milk ducts to be destroyed. I tried so hard. At first I thought it was a supply issue so I would pump in between feedings, taking supplements (milk thistle, more milk plus, fenugreek, etc).

Nothing would help. My daughter kept losing weight and was eventually diagnosed as failure to thrive. She was wasting away and I felt helpless. The doctors wanted me to supplement with formula and as much as I didn't want to, I felt like there wasn't any other option.

We went through a dozen different formulas and nothing worked. Her little tummy wouldn't tolerate any of it. I felt hopeless. At one point I tried getting a hold of donor milk from a milk bank but I couldn't afford $5 per ounce. WIC and Medicaid wouldn't cover donor milk either, even though her pediatrician wrote a letter of medical necessity.

I'd all but given up when I heard about milkshare. Milkshare turned out to be a miracle for my baby girl. Thanks to several dedicated and selfless women, my daughter was able to get breast milk and grow strong.

It saddens me that I wasn't able to provide her with the nutrients that she needed, but I am eternally grateful that there are women out there who are willing and able to help.

I guess the point is to let women know that there are options! Giving up doesn't have to be one of them. Breast milk is best for your little one, regardless of the source.