Is it possible to breastfeed after a C-section?
I’m having twins so a C-Section is always going to be on the cards until our baby boy moves into a head down position.
I’m nearly 24 weeks (still early I know) but he is still lying across the bottom of my womb and his sister is lying on top of him, most of the time int he same way. Both have their backs facing down. I have a few more scans before my due date so we will have a better idea in about a month’s time.
If I have to have a C-Section, will I be able to breastfeed straight away or will I have to give them formula until my milk/colostrum comes in?
Also, will it be more painful breastfeeding after a caesarian? I’ve heard about after pains because of the contraction of the womb during breastfeeding and I was just wondering if this would be worse or the same with a c-section.
Hey sweetie!! I don’t think you are going to have a definite answer to your question until you deliver your little ones.
If you are able deliver naturally and there were no complications during your delivery, you will probably be able to breastfeed immediately. Breastfeeding immediately after delivery is encouraged, since it starts that mommy-baby bond.
However, you my friend, are having twins!! With twins, I honestly don’t know how that is going to work. When I had my son, he breastfeed every two hours around the clock!! I quickly became extremely exhausted since being a new mom, you don’t get much uninterrupted sleep during the first few months, and I had to go back to work six weeks after I delivered. I then switched to formula with no regrets. My son continued to thrive on formula, and I was able to get back to my normal routine, which included a good nights sleep.
If you cannot or decide not to breastfeed, a good alternative would be to express your milk into bottles. That way both babies have the advantage of being fed with breast milk, daddy can help with feeding (and bonding…dad needs bonding time too…)and you benefit by getting more of the much needed rest you are going to need.
I’ve included two links for you:
1) This first link is an informative article about breastfeeding after a cesarean section.
http://www.storknet.com/cubbies/breast/AS-bfaftercesarean.htm
2) This link is about the pros and cons of breastfeeding twins.
http://www.babycenter.com/0_breastfeeding-twins-or-multiples_8479.bc
There are a lot of good baby feeding options that are available to you. You will probably have to do a little experimenting until you find a feeding method that works best for you and your babies.
I know that whatever you choose, you are going to be a terrific mom!! Your love and concern for the well being of your babies shines through in every question you ask!! You seem to be truly enjoying your pregnancy and your babies are able to already feel the warmth and the love from their mom before they are born. Your twins are very lucky to have you as their mommy, and I’m sure you can’t wait to meet them.
God bless you, your little ones my friend… AND… only 16 weeks to go!!!