It can be disappointing for some, and devastating for others, when breastfeeding doesn’t go as planned. In seeking to better support and educate new mothers, many breastfeeding advocates understandably focus on the goal of success, especially with a healthy baby who appears to be breastfeeding well. After all, most obstacles to breastfeeding is it so temporary and brief. For a small minority of women, however, there are obstacles that no amount of time or effort can overcome.
Insufficient glandular tissue, or IGT, is a rarely discussed condition in which a mother has underdeveloped glands that are therefore less capable of producing milk. While many women with this condition also have small breasts, it is important to note that breast size itself is not an indication of IGT, and that most women with small breasts produce enough milk. Rather, IGT is most noted for breast hypoplasia (asymmetry or underdevelopment that can be assessed by a doctor), and many women diagnosed with IGT later report little or no change in the breasts during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. The photographic record documenting breast hypoplasia often shows visually obvious underdevelopment in one or both breasts, but variations in breast shape can vary dramatically from woman to woman, and the condition is not always visually obvious.
The good news is that most women with IGT may Successful breastfeeding, although in most cases, supplementation is required. Some women experience only a delay in breastfeeding and, with sufficient stimulation and temporary supplementation, can then continue exclusive breastfeeding. In some extremely rare cases, a mother must use formula exclusively.
Here are some tips if you suspect you may have IGT:
or If you are still pregnant, prepare yourself emotionally and tell your doctor about your concerns. One of the greatest difficulties for women with IGT is the disappointment experienced during the rush of postpartum emotions. Many women experience feelings of anger, guilt, or incompetence, especially with a lack of information about IGT. The more you can prepare, the better it will be.
or If your baby has already been born, don’t panic. Remember that most breastfeeding problems, even those related to poor weight gain, can be solved and are not, in fact, IGT. Contact a lactation consultant to evaluate the possibilities and get advice on how to maximize your potential for milk production.
or Keep a detailed diaper and feeding log. This information will be valuable to you and your child’s caregivers in evaluating when and if supplements are needed.
or Always stay in contact with your child’s pediatrician.
or Discuss your concerns about having IGT with your OB / GYN and / or lactation consultant. Many women diagnosed with IGT report that no one discussed the issue with them prior to birth.
or If you were advised to supplement with formula, do so with confidence. While formula is the second best option after breast milk, it is a nutritious alternative that babies not only survive on, but thrive on.
or Most babies can adjust to both breast and bottle feeding, especially after the first few weeks. If you are concerned about nipple confusion in a newborn, there are many ways to supplement in addition to the bottle, including a dropper or SNS (Supplemental Lactation System).
or If you want to continue breastfeeding, remember to always breastfeed first and minutely before giving your baby a supplemental bottle. Some doctors may also recommend using a hospital-grade electric pump to pump after each feeding, to ensure that the breasts have been completely drained. As long as breastfeeding sessions are as frequent and thorough as those of a woman without IGT, you will maximize your milk supply.
Finally, if you have IGT, keep calm and move on. Whatever she decides, it is important for a mother to feel confident and positive about her circumstances and her feeding choices. Many mothers with IGT continue to have satisfying and successful breastfeeding relationships. However, breastfeeding with IGT has its own challenges, as you may not enjoy the full benefits of breastfeeding. gold bottle feeding, and there may be a variety of physical and emotional burdens that only you can assess. If you find supplementation too impractical for your circumstances and choose to bottle-feed exclusively, do so free of any feelings of inadequacy or guilt. As a woman and family with diverse circumstances and needs, only you can decide on a practical feeding plan for your baby that not only nourishes your child, but creates a calm, balanced and content family situation. Your baby’s greatest need isn’t just for breast milk, it’s you.