Toasted (03-08-2013)
Toasted (03-08-2013)
I know taking fenugreek will increase your supply tremendously, blessed thistle (not milk thistle as that's for your liver) oatmeal, even cookies out there specifically for women breast feeding. If you planned on breast feeding later I'd contact a La Leche League leader before giving birth, they would help you right away, I really liked them. There's ways to relactate even after drying up.
Like @(you need an account to see links) said, a lot of doctors will give out poor advice, you've got some that feel breast is best but they get a kick back for promoting formula. I left the hospital breast feeding but was sent home with a ton of formula and coupons, I was pushed to supplement because of her bilirubin levels, they gave her a pacifier right after my c section, just a bunch of bs things setting me up to "fail" and messing with my supply. Though in the end I had to quit when my medications needed to be switched. I wouldn't be discouraged unless you were given a medical diagnoses to why you can't, and even then there's a few prescriptions that would help.
OOOOAAARRGGHH!!
Lots of hospitals also have lactation specialists and can help you out with getting started on breastfeeding. If you want to do it, it's definitely worth seeing what kind of resources are available (especially if they're covered by your insurance) to help you get started.