This is not meant to shame, guilt, or upset anyone. Some may find it
controversial, offensive, or crazy. Some may call it a myth. But for
those who wish to understand, share in our experience, and understand
how the evidence ties in with our son's story, please continue reading.
Passing the Litmus Tests
Remember those transfer weighs we were doing in Norma's office. Here is
the proof we needed that Silas had in fact learned to breastfeed. Our
initial transfer amount was 8/10ths of an ounce, or 0.8 ounces, at 4
weeks old. At his last transfer weight during the Mother's Milk Club
during his hospital stay which brought about breastfeeding, he
transferred 5 ounces at 3 months old! Proof!!
The next test came at his 4 month check up. Had he gained weight? Had he
grown in height and head circumference? The answer: a resounding YES!
In 30 days Silas had gained 39 ounces. From months 3-6 he gained 5 lbs
(crossing from the 10th% to 50th%) 3 inches in length (crossing from
3rd% to 5th%), and 6 centimeters of head growth (crossing from -4 to -3
z-score)! While being supplemented with formula, we actually saw a
stagnant period from months 2-3 where head growth was negligible. Once
we began breastfeeding exclusively, Silas began crossing percentiles on
ALL his charts.
If that were not evidence enough, the developmental progress continued.
In combination with physical therapy, Silas has since learned to reach
for and track objects, laugh, sit supported, and correct his head. These
are all things he could not do before he began breastfeeding
exclusively, and all signs of neurological development.
Oh, and one last good result from learning to breastfeed, Silas has been
off reflux meds since 4 months of age. His reflux which included
projectile vomiting and crying from tummy discomfort, is undetectable.
It wouldn't feel right to close this post without saying thank you to
Norma, LLL, Mothers Milk Club, Heather and Dani at NHRMC, Kacey and
Renee at Oleander Rehab, and Dr. Archer plus all the specialists who
encouraged us, believed in us and refused to give up on us. We would not
be successfully nursing today without your help, support, and prayers.
Thank you!
Breastfeeding for us may never be perfect, but we are beyond grateful for our journey, bumps and all.
A few key articles about brain development and breastmilk:
http://www.indianpediatrics.net/mar2003/mar-213-220.htm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2939272/
https://www.iser.essex.ac.uk/publications/working-papers/iser/2010-40
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