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Vanessa scored 9 out of 10 in the APGAR test - actually we have no idea what the APGAR is all about.
Anyway today I was flipping through the book, ' What to Expect - the first year' and I saw the APGAR score table. So I showed to the hubby since I remember he asking about APGAR.
He asked what did baby score and I replied '9'.
His next question? "So which part did baby not get full marks for?"
I think I'll volunteer to deal with Vanessa's schoolwork when she gets older.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Journey of the Twin Peaks
It's been almost 4 weeks since I gave birth to Vanessa, and almost 4 weeks of breastfeeding and pumping.
Now that my supply is somewhat established, and I don't face a major problem having her latching on to my breasts, I feel that I have achieved a major milestone.
I don't look back at the first 2 weeks very fondly - since they were marked mostly with pain, sore nipples and having to deal with not just emotional and physical stress, but also battling with the need to balance for personal time and having to please family members.
I'm glad that my baby were of the "normal" weight/ size, hence I had that 3 day headstart for breastfeeding. I'm also glad that while she's not a very strong sucker, she latches on well enough for me to feel confident about breastfeeding her.
I do remember very vividly, the first few days in the hospital, when I tried TBF (total breastfeeding) - how much the hubby helped me, how Vanessa didn't stress me by not wailing her lungs out (in fact we were wondering if she's hungry since everytime she's wheeled into the room, she was happily sleeping!), and by the stroke of luck, we decided to stay one extra day since her jaundice level was still a bit high, and hence I had help on hand when I suffered the breasts engorgement.
Then the problem of having sufficient milk supply to feed the baby presented itself. I had already started pumping in the hospital after I bf, and the amounts were mearge. I could try pumping for 30 minutes, and all I could extract were a mere 5ml. At times when I could express 10ml to 20ml, the sense of accomplishment were immediately shot down since that particular nurse said "So little only, where got enough, she need at least 30ml!". So much for their PRO BF stand.
When I got home, again I was given the pressure to feed baby formula milk, since my amount were minute still. I have to express 3 times after bf to get a 40ml feed, and I was so tired from bf, pumping and then bf again. In the end, we did get a tin of formula milk, but I take pride in that we only gave her 1 feed of formula milk and the rest from my milk supply for her daily needs.
I guess it helped that I am so stubborn. The more they insist that baby doesn't have enough and that I can't produce enough milk, the MORE I want to prove them wrong. Of course, it also lead to other pains, like engorgement due to the prolonged pumping, blocked ducts since I was bent on producing enough milk by pumping and not latching on enough, but I would say, I think I'm working my way around the obstacles pretty ok. Not excellent, but I would give myself a pass grade. I may need to sacrifice my beauty sleep and some, but I have achieved sufficient milk supply for my girl currently.
I do not know if I will have enough in a month's time, or even tomorrow - but if I don't have enough, it's ok. There's always formula milk as a backup, and I can always to attain enough milk supply another day, somewhere down the road.
Of course there are always the overachievers, 300ml in 15 ml flat and only having given birth 2 weeks ago. There are also the underachievers, because they believed not in themselves, but others who told them they didn't have enough milk.
If you had asked me if I am going to plan for no. 2, in the first 2 weeks, I had flatly said NO. If motherhood is a natural thing, then why is it so hard to breastfeed our baby, when it is the most "natural" thing in motherhood?
If you ask me now, I may consider a no. 2 later on. Breastfeeding a child is not easy, but it can be done.
Oh, and my daily milk production is now + or - 40ml from 900ml ;P depending if I let baby latch on (I don't add those into my total) and whether I follow my pumping schedule strictly. And all done in a third of the time I used to express that 700/ 800ml of milk.
Now that my supply is somewhat established, and I don't face a major problem having her latching on to my breasts, I feel that I have achieved a major milestone.
I don't look back at the first 2 weeks very fondly - since they were marked mostly with pain, sore nipples and having to deal with not just emotional and physical stress, but also battling with the need to balance for personal time and having to please family members.
I'm glad that my baby were of the "normal" weight/ size, hence I had that 3 day headstart for breastfeeding. I'm also glad that while she's not a very strong sucker, she latches on well enough for me to feel confident about breastfeeding her.
I do remember very vividly, the first few days in the hospital, when I tried TBF (total breastfeeding) - how much the hubby helped me, how Vanessa didn't stress me by not wailing her lungs out (in fact we were wondering if she's hungry since everytime she's wheeled into the room, she was happily sleeping!), and by the stroke of luck, we decided to stay one extra day since her jaundice level was still a bit high, and hence I had help on hand when I suffered the breasts engorgement.
Then the problem of having sufficient milk supply to feed the baby presented itself. I had already started pumping in the hospital after I bf, and the amounts were mearge. I could try pumping for 30 minutes, and all I could extract were a mere 5ml. At times when I could express 10ml to 20ml, the sense of accomplishment were immediately shot down since that particular nurse said "So little only, where got enough, she need at least 30ml!". So much for their PRO BF stand.
When I got home, again I was given the pressure to feed baby formula milk, since my amount were minute still. I have to express 3 times after bf to get a 40ml feed, and I was so tired from bf, pumping and then bf again. In the end, we did get a tin of formula milk, but I take pride in that we only gave her 1 feed of formula milk and the rest from my milk supply for her daily needs.
I guess it helped that I am so stubborn. The more they insist that baby doesn't have enough and that I can't produce enough milk, the MORE I want to prove them wrong. Of course, it also lead to other pains, like engorgement due to the prolonged pumping, blocked ducts since I was bent on producing enough milk by pumping and not latching on enough, but I would say, I think I'm working my way around the obstacles pretty ok. Not excellent, but I would give myself a pass grade. I may need to sacrifice my beauty sleep and some, but I have achieved sufficient milk supply for my girl currently.
I do not know if I will have enough in a month's time, or even tomorrow - but if I don't have enough, it's ok. There's always formula milk as a backup, and I can always to attain enough milk supply another day, somewhere down the road.
Of course there are always the overachievers, 300ml in 15 ml flat and only having given birth 2 weeks ago. There are also the underachievers, because they believed not in themselves, but others who told them they didn't have enough milk.
If you had asked me if I am going to plan for no. 2, in the first 2 weeks, I had flatly said NO. If motherhood is a natural thing, then why is it so hard to breastfeed our baby, when it is the most "natural" thing in motherhood?
If you ask me now, I may consider a no. 2 later on. Breastfeeding a child is not easy, but it can be done.
Oh, and my daily milk production is now + or - 40ml from 900ml ;P depending if I let baby latch on (I don't add those into my total) and whether I follow my pumping schedule strictly. And all done in a third of the time I used to express that 700/ 800ml of milk.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Thought of the day
I've been musing quite a fair bit, especially during pumping, since my hands are pretty occupied.
Then my mind wandered to this "recall" of a conversation with one of my gfs, who's married and not planning to have a kid yet. She was telling me about being reluctant to meet this other group of "babies crazy" mothers, since they will keep telling her how great it is to have kids and she MUST have kids NOW.
My thoughts on that? It's the same as facing relatives every CNY - "When are you getting married?" "How come you don't have a boyfriend yet?" "Oh your face has so much acne!" "When are you going to have a kid?". If you didn't like it yourself, please don't do it to others. If you have forgotten about how irritating it is, please remember that other people have OTHER priorities in life.
Since now I have my own child, how does the above apply?
A marriage is a contract between 2 persons, like it or not. For better or worse, the couple is suppose to stick through thick and thin, because of LOVE. If it doesn't work out for some reason, there's always the easy way out, which is just to walk out on the marriage.
Having a child, it is a totally different ballgame. You cannot just walk away from it. Even your body will react to having a child, like producing breast milk (for ladies that is).
If the baby cries, I cannot just walk away like in an argument with my hubby.
If the baby is hungry, I cannot say "Just wait a while, let me finish this TV programme first" or "Make yourself a milo first".
If the baby's diaper is wet or dirty, I cannot tell the baby to clean up after herself.
If the baby is tired and sleepy, I cannot just ask the baby to go to bed and tuck herself in.
If the baby is sick or feeling unwell, I cannot just remind the baby to see the doctor - I'll have to make an appointment with the PD and carry her in my arms till the PD is available to see us.
Having a child is the ultimate committment - not just physically, it's also mentally, emotionally and financially. I cannot just walk away from her and let her take care of herself.
Having a child is not for everyone - unless they are prepared for the worst roller coaster ride in the entire life.
Every cry, I'll jump, because I'm not sure what's wrong with her. I can deal if she's hungry or diaper's dirty, but not if all the above is checked and it's not the cause of her crying. Everything she throws up her milk, my heart aches, because I wonder if she's feeling unwell (although everyone says it's normal). She cannot vocalise her discomfort, although the confinement nanny says we can tell from her facial expressions and cries - it makes me wonder if I am really up to the job of being a mother.
But ...
every smile makes my heart melt,
every time she grasp my fingers I feel loved,
every time she latches on I feel comforted (despite the occasional yelps of pain),
every time I see her little fingers and toes I feel so fascinated ... and so much more ...
Only have a child because you and your partner wants to. It's not a toy, you cannot return or exchange it, and you are liable for it for life. Stop asking "When are you going to have a child?" or "Why don't you want to have a child?" End of it, it's not your own child - it's the couple's private decision. Each to their own, and in their own time.
Then my mind wandered to this "recall" of a conversation with one of my gfs, who's married and not planning to have a kid yet. She was telling me about being reluctant to meet this other group of "babies crazy" mothers, since they will keep telling her how great it is to have kids and she MUST have kids NOW.
My thoughts on that? It's the same as facing relatives every CNY - "When are you getting married?" "How come you don't have a boyfriend yet?" "Oh your face has so much acne!" "When are you going to have a kid?". If you didn't like it yourself, please don't do it to others. If you have forgotten about how irritating it is, please remember that other people have OTHER priorities in life.
Since now I have my own child, how does the above apply?
A marriage is a contract between 2 persons, like it or not. For better or worse, the couple is suppose to stick through thick and thin, because of LOVE. If it doesn't work out for some reason, there's always the easy way out, which is just to walk out on the marriage.
Having a child, it is a totally different ballgame. You cannot just walk away from it. Even your body will react to having a child, like producing breast milk (for ladies that is).
If the baby cries, I cannot just walk away like in an argument with my hubby.
If the baby is hungry, I cannot say "Just wait a while, let me finish this TV programme first" or "Make yourself a milo first".
If the baby's diaper is wet or dirty, I cannot tell the baby to clean up after herself.
If the baby is tired and sleepy, I cannot just ask the baby to go to bed and tuck herself in.
If the baby is sick or feeling unwell, I cannot just remind the baby to see the doctor - I'll have to make an appointment with the PD and carry her in my arms till the PD is available to see us.
Having a child is the ultimate committment - not just physically, it's also mentally, emotionally and financially. I cannot just walk away from her and let her take care of herself.
Having a child is not for everyone - unless they are prepared for the worst roller coaster ride in the entire life.
Every cry, I'll jump, because I'm not sure what's wrong with her. I can deal if she's hungry or diaper's dirty, but not if all the above is checked and it's not the cause of her crying. Everything she throws up her milk, my heart aches, because I wonder if she's feeling unwell (although everyone says it's normal). She cannot vocalise her discomfort, although the confinement nanny says we can tell from her facial expressions and cries - it makes me wonder if I am really up to the job of being a mother.
But ...
every smile makes my heart melt,
every time she grasp my fingers I feel loved,
every time she latches on I feel comforted (despite the occasional yelps of pain),
every time I see her little fingers and toes I feel so fascinated ... and so much more ...
Only have a child because you and your partner wants to. It's not a toy, you cannot return or exchange it, and you are liable for it for life. Stop asking "When are you going to have a child?" or "Why don't you want to have a child?" End of it, it's not your own child - it's the couple's private decision. Each to their own, and in their own time.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
A visit to the PD
Today brought baby down for a visit to the PD - was worried about her increasing regurgitation of milk and the occasional "phlegmy" stuff coming out with the milk.
The PD (Dr Tan) explained the difference between vomitting and regurgitation and what I need to look out for. Overall, he was very satisfied with her progress and the weight gain (apparently she gained 800g since she was discharged). About cutting the feeds to 80ml, he said it was correct, since she wasn't able to hold 100ml down.
So, I felt pretty happy and relieved, although she did do a "merlion" on me after her second bf session *sigh*
The PD (Dr Tan) explained the difference between vomitting and regurgitation and what I need to look out for. Overall, he was very satisfied with her progress and the weight gain (apparently she gained 800g since she was discharged). About cutting the feeds to 80ml, he said it was correct, since she wasn't able to hold 100ml down.
So, I felt pretty happy and relieved, although she did do a "merlion" on me after her second bf session *sigh*
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Drop by Drop ...
The bad thing about using twin pumps? I can't do much except to watch the drops of milk filling up the container.
With a single pump, I could 1) read a book/ magazine 2) play games on my handphone 3) SMS or call using my handphone 4) well whatever I can do with 1 free hand
The good thing? It's over in 15 minutes flat for both sides, especially when I'm tired and I just want to get it over and done with.
Baby latched on pretty well today for her 6pm feed, although *hmph* she was interested in playing rather than drinking. At least she didn't puke all over me today, and she was hungry within 1 hour again. Anyway, gave her a 40ml feed instead since I don't want her to puke later on. For reassurance, I got the confinement lady sitting next to me when I was breastfeeding, in case I couldn't handle her. It worked, since the confinement lady helped me to burp her in between nursing, and I wasn't so stressed.
HOWEVER, the thing that will be stressful is that the confinement lady will be gone in a week's time. Not sure if the maid and I can handle her, I'm sure I'll probably end up crying everyday. Alternatively, execute the backup plan, but we will need to see how it goes ...
With a single pump, I could 1) read a book/ magazine 2) play games on my handphone 3) SMS or call using my handphone 4) well whatever I can do with 1 free hand
The good thing? It's over in 15 minutes flat for both sides, especially when I'm tired and I just want to get it over and done with.
Baby latched on pretty well today for her 6pm feed, although *hmph* she was interested in playing rather than drinking. At least she didn't puke all over me today, and she was hungry within 1 hour again. Anyway, gave her a 40ml feed instead since I don't want her to puke later on. For reassurance, I got the confinement lady sitting next to me when I was breastfeeding, in case I couldn't handle her. It worked, since the confinement lady helped me to burp her in between nursing, and I wasn't so stressed.
HOWEVER, the thing that will be stressful is that the confinement lady will be gone in a week's time. Not sure if the maid and I can handle her, I'm sure I'll probably end up crying everyday. Alternatively, execute the backup plan, but we will need to see how it goes ...
Ameda Twin Pumps
They arrived this morning at 11:00am, in time for my 11:45am pump! Got it out, washed and steamed in the sterilizer, then brought into the room to do the setup and then got it to start pumping.
My verdict? It makes 1/3 the noise of the Avent isis uno electric pump, does the job in half the time and I didn't have to do too much work of massaging the breasts. It's well worth my $320 investment!
Now, just waiting for my milk production to really start revving up it's engine - oops, here I go obsessing about the volume again. Well, I just bough 25 milk storage freezer bags ;P I can't let them just lie around unused right?
My verdict? It makes 1/3 the noise of the Avent isis uno electric pump, does the job in half the time and I didn't have to do too much work of massaging the breasts. It's well worth my $320 investment!
Now, just waiting for my milk production to really start revving up it's engine - oops, here I go obsessing about the volume again. Well, I just bough 25 milk storage freezer bags ;P I can't let them just lie around unused right?
Monday, April 23, 2007
Update on milk production for 23 april 2007
Ok I admit it, I'm obsessed. Even my confinement lady thinks so. She keeps trying to tell me it's ok to give formula milk but I think it's because baby is asking for a feed every 2 hours or so ;P
Anyway so far so good, seems to be on track. I pumped another 110ml after the massage so I'm happy that my production is on schedule. I'm even happier that my breasts doesn't have rocks in them.
Still waiting for my Ameda pumps though ...
To date:
6.30am - 200ml
10.30am - 110ml
1.15pm - 110ml
3.30pm - 80ml
6.00pm - breastfed, and she threw up over 20ml of milk! She realised eventually it wasn't the bottle, so she had to stop drinking on her own.
7.00pm - pumped 40ml out
10.00pm - 70ml (can feel some lumps in the right breast again *sigh*)
12 midnight - 70ml
Total for the day, including estimated 80ml for her 6pm feed, that's 760ml.
Not as great as 2 days before, where the total volume is 830ml, but it's ok. As long as I have enough to give to baby.
It's quite depressing to hear when people talking about pumping 300ml in 15 mins time - I can barely pump 100ml! But, I guess everyone has different production capabilities =(
Anyway so far so good, seems to be on track. I pumped another 110ml after the massage so I'm happy that my production is on schedule. I'm even happier that my breasts doesn't have rocks in them.
Still waiting for my Ameda pumps though ...
To date:
6.30am - 200ml
10.30am - 110ml
1.15pm - 110ml
3.30pm - 80ml
6.00pm - breastfed, and she threw up over 20ml of milk! She realised eventually it wasn't the bottle, so she had to stop drinking on her own.
7.00pm - pumped 40ml out
10.00pm - 70ml (can feel some lumps in the right breast again *sigh*)
12 midnight - 70ml
Total for the day, including estimated 80ml for her 6pm feed, that's 760ml.
Not as great as 2 days before, where the total volume is 830ml, but it's ok. As long as I have enough to give to baby.
It's quite depressing to hear when people talking about pumping 300ml in 15 mins time - I can barely pump 100ml! But, I guess everyone has different production capabilities =(
Lesser of the 2 evils
Good news: My morning production went back to 200ml
Bad news: I'm way over pumping my breasts, that it's being overworked, leading to engorgement. It's hot, and the lumps are there and refused to move.
Solution? Pump every 2 hours, max 15 minutes each side. *sigh*
Other good news, MY AMEDA PUMPS ARE COMING TODAY! *phew* Let's hope it all works out for me.
Planning to let baby to latch on later tonight. I don't like feeding in the day cuz it's way too hot :P
Ok, going to play with baby for a little while then I'll pump. I had my breasts massaged this morning by Rose and it's so darn painful that I almost cried. But compared to the engorgement pain, this is a small price to pay. Hope my breasts doesn't get engorged anymore!
Bad news: I'm way over pumping my breasts, that it's being overworked, leading to engorgement. It's hot, and the lumps are there and refused to move.
Solution? Pump every 2 hours, max 15 minutes each side. *sigh*
Other good news, MY AMEDA PUMPS ARE COMING TODAY! *phew* Let's hope it all works out for me.
Planning to let baby to latch on later tonight. I don't like feeding in the day cuz it's way too hot :P
Ok, going to play with baby for a little while then I'll pump. I had my breasts massaged this morning by Rose and it's so darn painful that I almost cried. But compared to the engorgement pain, this is a small price to pay. Hope my breasts doesn't get engorged anymore!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Milk production on the decline
Stress affects the production I guess ...
1) I had a blocked duct so I was in pain, I couldn't drain this big blob of milk - stress! In the end I had to play with baby (she refused to nurse since she just had her feed of 100ml then), then when I was relaxed enough, I tried again to pump. It worked! This teeny weeny stream shot out continuously for 1 minute or so, bringing relief
2) This morning, the milk production was down by half. I supposed I'm too stressed by trying to maintain a certain standard of volume - so I'm trying to take it easy. So much for the plans to freeze the excess EBM *sigh*
3) I'm still having blocked ducts problems or let down issues, so I've decided once and for all, to get the Ameda twin pumps - hopefully the imitation of baby suckling will help with the let down, and hence I would not have to deal with all the milk backed up somewhere (dammed would probably be the next best description), causing the pain.
Ok, time to take my fluids and back to bed. I'm way too far far behind my milk schedule today.
1) I had a blocked duct so I was in pain, I couldn't drain this big blob of milk - stress! In the end I had to play with baby (she refused to nurse since she just had her feed of 100ml then), then when I was relaxed enough, I tried again to pump. It worked! This teeny weeny stream shot out continuously for 1 minute or so, bringing relief
2) This morning, the milk production was down by half. I supposed I'm too stressed by trying to maintain a certain standard of volume - so I'm trying to take it easy. So much for the plans to freeze the excess EBM *sigh*
3) I'm still having blocked ducts problems or let down issues, so I've decided once and for all, to get the Ameda twin pumps - hopefully the imitation of baby suckling will help with the let down, and hence I would not have to deal with all the milk backed up somewhere (dammed would probably be the next best description), causing the pain.
Ok, time to take my fluids and back to bed. I'm way too far far behind my milk schedule today.
baby feeds ...
We cut her feed back to 80ml, I realised she's not taking very well to 100ml. She's reverting to 2 to 2.5 hour feeds becaused she throws up the excess.
The confinement lady and the maid concurred it was because she is not given enough formula milk. I had to control my temper and explain to the confinement lady 1) formula milk is harder to digest than breastmilk, so if she cannot even digest this, giving her 100ml of formula milk is not going to work 2) she's throwing up the excess probably because it is really too much for her?!!?!?
So we cut back 1 feed to 60ml to rest her little tummy, and we increased back to 80ml for the rest. So far she seems to be doing ok although she's reverting back to 2 hour feed. It's ok as long as she feed good (dones't feel the urge to hurl or any discomfort). It may also mean I have extra BM to freeze? I hope so!
The confinement lady and the maid concurred it was because she is not given enough formula milk. I had to control my temper and explain to the confinement lady 1) formula milk is harder to digest than breastmilk, so if she cannot even digest this, giving her 100ml of formula milk is not going to work 2) she's throwing up the excess probably because it is really too much for her?!!?!?
So we cut back 1 feed to 60ml to rest her little tummy, and we increased back to 80ml for the rest. So far she seems to be doing ok although she's reverting back to 2 hour feed. It's ok as long as she feed good (dones't feel the urge to hurl or any discomfort). It may also mean I have extra BM to freeze? I hope so!
Obligations ...
One thing I dislike about is having "well meaning" visitors that wants to comes to my place to visit. They will setup a time with my mother and then my mother will just announce.
So when I get frustrated, they say "Oh, it's not nice to turn them down since they come with well meaning, and they say they hadn't seen you in a long time". My grandaunt, ok, never mind, because she's such an old lady, so I won't mind giving in to her.
On the other hand, this other person, after the huge fuss I kicked up the last time, my mother again gave me the above reasons. I said no and I refused to entertain this "family friend". She hadn't seen me in years, so what difference does it make anyway? My mother called for back up and got someone to call me, and this time, basically I yelled down the phone. I don't mind if they want to come another time, or call first to check with me. I dislike it when they arrange it, I said no, and they try to change my mind by saying not nice. My retort? I never agreed for that person to visit in the first place. Besides, how on earth am I suppose to rest if they say come at 2pm, and often reach at 3pm, and if I had to pump milk, they won't be happy since I'm not outside to entertain them. It's a no-win situation, and I might as well just put a stop to it since they just add to my stress and BP. It's like giving an inch, and they want a foot. I have limited my family visits to just weekends and my mother's to alternate days - I cannot cope with the constant well-meaning "intrusions" since I need to start dealing with motherhood and grapple it well before my confinement lady returns home and I return to work.
Perhaps my temper is getting worse, but it doesn't help if they cannot respect my rights as a mother and my home as my place. Call me stubborn too, if you want, but I'm tired and all I want is a little peace in my own home.
So when I get frustrated, they say "Oh, it's not nice to turn them down since they come with well meaning, and they say they hadn't seen you in a long time". My grandaunt, ok, never mind, because she's such an old lady, so I won't mind giving in to her.
On the other hand, this other person, after the huge fuss I kicked up the last time, my mother again gave me the above reasons. I said no and I refused to entertain this "family friend". She hadn't seen me in years, so what difference does it make anyway? My mother called for back up and got someone to call me, and this time, basically I yelled down the phone. I don't mind if they want to come another time, or call first to check with me. I dislike it when they arrange it, I said no, and they try to change my mind by saying not nice. My retort? I never agreed for that person to visit in the first place. Besides, how on earth am I suppose to rest if they say come at 2pm, and often reach at 3pm, and if I had to pump milk, they won't be happy since I'm not outside to entertain them. It's a no-win situation, and I might as well just put a stop to it since they just add to my stress and BP. It's like giving an inch, and they want a foot. I have limited my family visits to just weekends and my mother's to alternate days - I cannot cope with the constant well-meaning "intrusions" since I need to start dealing with motherhood and grapple it well before my confinement lady returns home and I return to work.
Perhaps my temper is getting worse, but it doesn't help if they cannot respect my rights as a mother and my home as my place. Call me stubborn too, if you want, but I'm tired and all I want is a little peace in my own home.
Little miracles ...
One of the little miracles I count for the day is that she's still willing to latch on!
My hubby, the confinement lady and the maid were out to the market today and I watched the clock keenly. Since baby has reverted back to 80ml, her feeding times is cut to 2 hours interval.
Right on dot, my mother had to call at the time, she woke up, wailed and I had to picked her up, answer the call, and to reply I'll call back later (she will call at least 3 to 4 times unless someone picks up the phone - sometimes she doesn't get the idea that other people can be busy doing things). Baby fussed a little but started to cry louder so I tried breastfeeding and she latched on not quite immediately, but after a moment or two of hesitation. Well, it's still painful, since my areolas are still pretty sore from the contant pumping, and she chomps on quite hard.
How much did she take? I'm not sure, my guess is 30ml to 40ml, since she fell asleep promptly at the breast and didn't even given me a chance to switch sides. She started fussing about 1 hour later, but the rest were back, so the confinement lady gave her the bottle.
My 2 dogs also came home, and they are contented to lie at my feet. Rascal is a bit smarter, he waits till I've finished feeding and burping the baby, and while carrying the baby in one arm, he comes forward with his sad looking eyes - so he got his "sayanging". Phoebe the more impatient one, gave up and just slumped at my feet. They are now both sleeping under the computer table, after a restless night (they have to sleep in the kitchen now, but still on their beloved beds). Of course they are upset that they don't get to sleep on or under my bed, or even on the sofa, but we just have to make little adjustments until baby's a bigger and we are sure how the doggies will react to her. I just hope Phoebe will stop chewing on my wooden cabinets, stools, door frames and skirtings *sigh*
My hubby, the confinement lady and the maid were out to the market today and I watched the clock keenly. Since baby has reverted back to 80ml, her feeding times is cut to 2 hours interval.
Right on dot, my mother had to call at the time, she woke up, wailed and I had to picked her up, answer the call, and to reply I'll call back later (she will call at least 3 to 4 times unless someone picks up the phone - sometimes she doesn't get the idea that other people can be busy doing things). Baby fussed a little but started to cry louder so I tried breastfeeding and she latched on not quite immediately, but after a moment or two of hesitation. Well, it's still painful, since my areolas are still pretty sore from the contant pumping, and she chomps on quite hard.
How much did she take? I'm not sure, my guess is 30ml to 40ml, since she fell asleep promptly at the breast and didn't even given me a chance to switch sides. She started fussing about 1 hour later, but the rest were back, so the confinement lady gave her the bottle.
My 2 dogs also came home, and they are contented to lie at my feet. Rascal is a bit smarter, he waits till I've finished feeding and burping the baby, and while carrying the baby in one arm, he comes forward with his sad looking eyes - so he got his "sayanging". Phoebe the more impatient one, gave up and just slumped at my feet. They are now both sleeping under the computer table, after a restless night (they have to sleep in the kitchen now, but still on their beloved beds). Of course they are upset that they don't get to sleep on or under my bed, or even on the sofa, but we just have to make little adjustments until baby's a bigger and we are sure how the doggies will react to her. I just hope Phoebe will stop chewing on my wooden cabinets, stools, door frames and skirtings *sigh*
Saturday, April 21, 2007
The Inhouse Cow
I've been breaking my personal records - of some sorts ...
Every morning, I mentally challenge myself - how much can I pump out? Well, this morning a new record was set - 240ml (I beat yesterday's record of 220ml).
Last night, I also set another new record - highest total volume of milk pumped for the day is now standing at 800ml (the previous record was 750ml).
Proud? Not really, since I'm more frantic about producing enough milk for her. I've checked her total consumption yesterday - 1000ml! Her per feed is now 100ml, and she's been wanting to drink every 2 to 4 hours. It helps slightly that we supplement with 1 formula feed per night, but that's all the help I'm willing to accept now. So pump I must, milk I have to produce ;P
Just hope that I have enough patience to hang in for the long term - I'm investing in a new pump :P Ameda twin engine, so hopefully I can pump more in LESS time ... the hourly pumps are just killing my back ...
Every morning, I mentally challenge myself - how much can I pump out? Well, this morning a new record was set - 240ml (I beat yesterday's record of 220ml).
Last night, I also set another new record - highest total volume of milk pumped for the day is now standing at 800ml (the previous record was 750ml).
Proud? Not really, since I'm more frantic about producing enough milk for her. I've checked her total consumption yesterday - 1000ml! Her per feed is now 100ml, and she's been wanting to drink every 2 to 4 hours. It helps slightly that we supplement with 1 formula feed per night, but that's all the help I'm willing to accept now. So pump I must, milk I have to produce ;P
Just hope that I have enough patience to hang in for the long term - I'm investing in a new pump :P Ameda twin engine, so hopefully I can pump more in LESS time ... the hourly pumps are just killing my back ...
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
The Birth Story of Vanessa
The long overdue birth story ;P
Monday 2nd April 2007
- Went to see Dr Fong on Monday and he’s “not happy” with my BP and symptoms – asked me give birth asap – so convinced him I want C-section with L.A.
- Consulted my mother on the “good days” and she says the best is the next day (Tuesday)
Tuesday 3rd April 2007
- Went to get admitted at 3.30pm at TMC
- After a series of "negotiations”, we managed to get the newly renovated rooms on the 6th floor maternity ward *YES!*
- Got escorted to the room where they started prepping me for the C-section
- Got wheeled to the operating theatre and “parked” outside the room
- Waited for the doctors to turn up
- Got wheeled inside the OT and got transferred to the operating table
- The doctor to administer the epdiural is missing! But Dr Fong said he saw his car in the carpark, so he has to be somewhere.
- Dr Chong, the missing doctor, turns up – he was held up in another case at the labour ward.
- Got a jab before they inserted the drip needle
- Got another jab before they did the epidural
- Then they inserted the catheter
- Starting to wooze – I don’t really remember much except that I snored occasionally
- Heard a comment from Dr Fong, “WAH her stomach muscles are so strong, she do a lot of sit-ups is it?”
- After operation commentary by my hubby – apparently the nurse and Dr Fong had problems tugging open my stomach. Dr Chong was trying to help to push the baby out as well, and he had to exert so much force until his arms were trembling
- I heard the baby cry and then I think I snored again.
- Baby was plonked unto my chest and she was crying non stop – I feebly patted her and tried to sayang her while trying not to drift back into slumberland.
- After operation commentary by my hubby – baby stopped crying immediately once passed the doors of the OT
- Everything else is blurred – I don’t remember much except the nurses doing the dressing on me and then waking up on my hospital bed
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
To BF or not to BF, that is the question ...
(If you are wondering, BF = BreastFeeding, not boyfriend or breakfast)
I've successfully bf-ed for my baby's 1st week, and halfway through the 2nd week, the baby's completely on the bottle while I expressed out the BM (BreastMilk).
Why? To keep my sanity I guess:
1) She'll nurse for 1 hour, then I'll pump for 30 minutes and 30 minutes later, she's hungry again.
2) The guilt that I don't seem to have enough (that's why she nurse for 1 hour) BM
3) The need for my personal time (even while pumping BM is good enough)
The arrangement so far is quite good - I'm less tired, I have time to enjoy my baby, without trying to fiddle with the breasts and nursing bra. Now, I can even plan to nurse her at 9pm feed (she's almost like clockwork - her feed is about every 3 hours) - as in let her have 70% of her usual amount and then I'll supply the rest.
I've 6 weeks more for this arrangement before I return back to work, and I have no idea what will happen then.
As long as baby's happy, I'm happy, she's healthy - I'm good. I don't have to be so anal-retentive about being the best or good or whatever mum, as long as I do the best I can, and I guess that is what matters.
One baby step at a time, even for a mother ...
I've successfully bf-ed for my baby's 1st week, and halfway through the 2nd week, the baby's completely on the bottle while I expressed out the BM (BreastMilk).
Why? To keep my sanity I guess:
1) She'll nurse for 1 hour, then I'll pump for 30 minutes and 30 minutes later, she's hungry again.
2) The guilt that I don't seem to have enough (that's why she nurse for 1 hour) BM
3) The need for my personal time (even while pumping BM is good enough)
The arrangement so far is quite good - I'm less tired, I have time to enjoy my baby, without trying to fiddle with the breasts and nursing bra. Now, I can even plan to nurse her at 9pm feed (she's almost like clockwork - her feed is about every 3 hours) - as in let her have 70% of her usual amount and then I'll supply the rest.
I've 6 weeks more for this arrangement before I return back to work, and I have no idea what will happen then.
As long as baby's happy, I'm happy, she's healthy - I'm good. I don't have to be so anal-retentive about being the best or good or whatever mum, as long as I do the best I can, and I guess that is what matters.
One baby step at a time, even for a mother ...
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Mother of all comical mistakes
Paid $21 to the GP to confirm that the flap of skin stuck together is ACTUALLY THE WOUND!
Thank goodness we never really try to seperate the skin ourselves, and thank goodness I insisted on seeing the GP.
I can't believe this ... how sotong can we get????
Thank goodness we never really try to seperate the skin ourselves, and thank goodness I insisted on seeing the GP.
I can't believe this ... how sotong can we get????
Friday, April 13, 2007
A need to pay a visit to the GP
*sigh* just when I thought everything's clear, I need to pay a visit to the GP.
Why? You know the dressing they use? They come with this incredible sticky glue, and because it is REALLY sticky, it's very difficult to clean off. Anyway they tried to clean off some of it at the hospital and I tried to clean off some at home - so far so good I thought.
Then, *drumroll* I had difficulty walking last night, and upon closer examination, to my horror, I had this flap of skin CLOSELY GLUED TOGETHER. So the pain comes from my skin trying to stretch but yet being bounded to each other. The hubby tried using nail polish remover to "dissolve" the glue, but unsuccessfully. So I managed to persuade him 1) I'm in PAIN/ DISCOMFORT 2) to bring me to see a doctor. Anyway, I probably have rashes already (the line feels quite lumpy) and I certainly don't want it to turn nasty.
Just hope the GP can help without causing too much pain to me :(
Why? You know the dressing they use? They come with this incredible sticky glue, and because it is REALLY sticky, it's very difficult to clean off. Anyway they tried to clean off some of it at the hospital and I tried to clean off some at home - so far so good I thought.
Then, *drumroll* I had difficulty walking last night, and upon closer examination, to my horror, I had this flap of skin CLOSELY GLUED TOGETHER. So the pain comes from my skin trying to stretch but yet being bounded to each other. The hubby tried using nail polish remover to "dissolve" the glue, but unsuccessfully. So I managed to persuade him 1) I'm in PAIN/ DISCOMFORT 2) to bring me to see a doctor. Anyway, I probably have rashes already (the line feels quite lumpy) and I certainly don't want it to turn nasty.
Just hope the GP can help without causing too much pain to me :(
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Breastfeeding 101
Finding a good pre-natal therapist who does body and breast massage is important. Trust me, the breast massage is VERY important, else you will suffer the same fate as me.
Since I missed out on the breast massage before giving birth, I had the good fortune to meet this lady therapist, Rose JUST 4 days before giving birth. I wanted to book for my post-natal treatment but she suggested I go down and try her pre-natal massage (apparently they do it right up to before birth! WHY I SUFFER ALL THE ACHES FOR NOTHING! If only I had known earlier *sob*). So I did, and she commented that I am bound to suffer from breast engorgement. She also said I could look for her for help if I cannot massage out the lumps (blockages) myself (she taught me the massage technique).
True enough, I had the nasty experience in TMC, so I came home, SMSed Rose, and managed to get her to come to my place for the massage. I had in all 3 sessions.
1st session was PAIN PAIN PAIN, but the lumps were partially gone by the next day, only left one big one on each side.
2nd session was PAIN PAIN PAIN, but the most of lumps were GONE by the next day, and she cleared some of the milk ducts for me.
By the 3rd session, my breasts are still sore, but my milk production shot up too. By how much? In total, since the last feed at 11pm last night, this morning, my milk production is 170ml on top of breastfeeding. Happy? You bet, and I was fretting that I wouldn't have enough milk for her! I'll pump more later after the feeds, so that I can top up the 170ml - just need another 70ml to make it for 3 feeds.
FYI also, I'm only breastfeeding from my right breast, since the left nipple is too sore to feed. Yes, I still have some left to express from the right breast after feeding. Funny thing though, the baby seems to know that I'm not feeding with the left breast so she keeps eyeing it. So I've been tricking her by first using the football hold, then the cradle (?) hold to feed and she seems quite satisfied so far, thankfully!
For a first time mother, who needed help with the feeding from the Hubby, the nurses and 6 pillows initially, I think I'm doing quite a decent job so far - although I still request help from the Hubby to burp her while changing positions or breasts sometimes. And thankfully, there is Rose to persuade the breasts to do their jobs too!
Since I missed out on the breast massage before giving birth, I had the good fortune to meet this lady therapist, Rose JUST 4 days before giving birth. I wanted to book for my post-natal treatment but she suggested I go down and try her pre-natal massage (apparently they do it right up to before birth! WHY I SUFFER ALL THE ACHES FOR NOTHING! If only I had known earlier *sob*). So I did, and she commented that I am bound to suffer from breast engorgement. She also said I could look for her for help if I cannot massage out the lumps (blockages) myself (she taught me the massage technique).
True enough, I had the nasty experience in TMC, so I came home, SMSed Rose, and managed to get her to come to my place for the massage. I had in all 3 sessions.
1st session was PAIN PAIN PAIN, but the lumps were partially gone by the next day, only left one big one on each side.
2nd session was PAIN PAIN PAIN, but the most of lumps were GONE by the next day, and she cleared some of the milk ducts for me.
By the 3rd session, my breasts are still sore, but my milk production shot up too. By how much? In total, since the last feed at 11pm last night, this morning, my milk production is 170ml on top of breastfeeding. Happy? You bet, and I was fretting that I wouldn't have enough milk for her! I'll pump more later after the feeds, so that I can top up the 170ml - just need another 70ml to make it for 3 feeds.
FYI also, I'm only breastfeeding from my right breast, since the left nipple is too sore to feed. Yes, I still have some left to express from the right breast after feeding. Funny thing though, the baby seems to know that I'm not feeding with the left breast so she keeps eyeing it. So I've been tricking her by first using the football hold, then the cradle (?) hold to feed and she seems quite satisfied so far, thankfully!
For a first time mother, who needed help with the feeding from the Hubby, the nurses and 6 pillows initially, I think I'm doing quite a decent job so far - although I still request help from the Hubby to burp her while changing positions or breasts sometimes. And thankfully, there is Rose to persuade the breasts to do their jobs too!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Who does the baby look like: Mummy Versus Daddy
1. Eyes: It's very obvious - she's got her daddy's eyes! Especially the hidden double eyelids!
2. Hair: It's also very obvious - she's got my hair! Dark, thick and slightly wavy.
3. Nose: Some says looks like mine, some says like her daddy's. I do agree her nostrils are like mine, but not sure about the shape though.
4. Lips: Most agreed she got my lips!
5. Ears: Probably one of the uncles/ aunts/ grandparents - we don't have her kind of earlobes!
6. Fingers/ Toes: Her daddy's - longish.
7. Legs: Her calves are like mine, not sure about the thighs though.
8. Skin tone: In between me and my hubby I believe - not as tanned as me, not as fair as her daddy.
Overall? 80% looks like me ;)
2. Hair: It's also very obvious - she's got my hair! Dark, thick and slightly wavy.
3. Nose: Some says looks like mine, some says like her daddy's. I do agree her nostrils are like mine, but not sure about the shape though.
4. Lips: Most agreed she got my lips!
5. Ears: Probably one of the uncles/ aunts/ grandparents - we don't have her kind of earlobes!
6. Fingers/ Toes: Her daddy's - longish.
7. Legs: Her calves are like mine, not sure about the thighs though.
8. Skin tone: In between me and my hubby I believe - not as tanned as me, not as fair as her daddy.
Overall? 80% looks like me ;)
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