Can you do self-insemination at home ?
I am a combination feeding mom, which means I provide my baby with breastmilk from the breast and formula from a bottle. Unfortunately, due to damaged milk ducts from two previous breast surgeries, exclusively breastfeeding isn’t something my body can manage.
My second son, Leo, arrived in November 2020. He latched on almost immediately, and it felt like he was always at my breast, much like my first son. Initially, everything seemed promising: his latch was strong (unlike my first), and I was more prepared this time with my breastfeeding knowledge. I hoped that my recent surgery to remove breast implants would improve my chances of successful breastfeeding. However, by our second night in the hospital, things took a concerning turn: Leo was losing weight, crying intensely while nursing, and hardly sleeping.
By our third day in the hospital, Leo had lost 11.4% of his birth weight despite constant breastfeeding. The medical team advised me to nurse, supplement with formula or breastmilk, and pump to stimulate my milk production. After returning home, public health nurse visits revealed that Leo continued to lose weight, even with my best efforts to keep him nursing effectively.
When Leo was just five days old, I confided in our public health nurse and lactation consultant about my struggles with pumping—barely getting a few drops. She suggested trying a supplemental nursing system (SNS), which involves placing a small tube in the baby’s mouth while breastfeeding, allowing them to receive additional milk from a container at the same time. Given my previous experience with pumping and topping up, I was eager to explore this alternative.
Using the SNS required patience, as it was tricky to position the tube correctly, but I loved that Leo could receive his formula while nursing, minimizing the risk of nipple confusion. I discovered that Medela offers an SNS that can be worn around the neck, making it hands-free to some extent. The system includes a bottle-like device that clips onto a necklace, allowing the feeding tubes to be taped to my breast for easy access. I found a secondhand SNS that had been used by someone else facing similar challenges, and I was pleasantly surprised by how manageable it was after some practice.
About ten days postpartum, I realized I needed additional support to boost my milk supply. I began taking domperidone and continued using the SNS for all of Leo’s feedings, increasing his top-up amounts to ensure he gained weight. After about two weeks, the effects of the domperidone kicked in, and Leo began to gain weight steadily, thriving at the breast.
Through my sessions with the lactation consultant, I learned that some of my milk ducts were likely damaged due to my breast surgeries, contributing to my milk supply issues. Despite these challenges, providing milk for Leo and maintaining a breastfeeding relationship is important to me. During our final appointment, the lactation consultant expressed that using the SNS was crucial in salvaging my breastfeeding experience. I created a sustainable feeding system that I truly enjoy.
Now, at five months old, Leo breastfeeds first and is topped up with a bottle based on his needs. This method has worked wonders for us. While many people have reservations about trying the SNS, I believe there is a significant lack of awareness about its benefits. Many still think feeding tubes are only for those who cannot eat independently. However, the SNS promotes milk production, encourages a better latch, and enables breastfeeding when it might not otherwise be possible. Ultimately, it’s about making choices that align with our values and fit our lifestyles. Thanks to the SNS, I’ve reduced my overall feeding time, eliminated the need to pump, and fostered a positive breastfeeding relationship that I’m proud of.
For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, you might find this article helpful. Additionally, if you’re looking to understand more about the health implications of this journey, check out this resource.
If you’re interested in related topics, consider these search queries:
- Benefits of supplemental nursing systems
- How to increase milk supply
- Challenges of breastfeeding after surgery
- Tips for combination feeding
- Support for breastfeeding moms
In summary, my experience with the supplemental nursing system has not only helped me maintain a breastfeeding relationship with my son Leo but has also provided a sustainable and enjoyable feeding routine.