Breastmilk Supply Differences the 2Nd Time Around

I had a similar experience with my first. Eye dropper for the first week and tried very unsuccessfully to breastfeed. I was never able to pump much of anything and she was raised exclusively on formula. With my second child, I was able to feed exclusively for the first year. I don't think we used any formula at all and she weened herself naturally, and that girl consumed a lot. I'm so glad I didn't let myself get discouraged by the first one and tried it all over again.

What about Reglan or similar prescription drug that is used to increase milk production? I never used it and do not have any information on it, but it may be something to discuss with your doctor.

And have a beer after giving birth! It'll relax you and help your milk supply :)

Best of luck to you!

It is all about the latch. If the latch is not there then you will not be successful. I know for me, I was never able to pump as well as I could nurse. Every baby is different and maybe this one will latch on better. I took blessed thistle in the beginning and that really helped with my production. I wouldn't worry about doing anything before the baby is born. Did you use a nipple shield?

The best advice I can give you is not to stress about this. Breastfeeding either will happen or it won't, but the more you stress your mind and your body in your determination to succeed, the less likely you will. Stress is one of the major contributing factors in low milk production, also your baby can and will pick up on your stress level surrounding feeding, making him/her less likely to latch or eat for long enough.
You are trying your best for your second, but your first had formula and did just fine. If it doesn't work this time around, please don't put so much pressure on yourself or the baby to breastfeed. A pleasant, relaxed feeding with a bottle of formula and a calm mommy is better than a stressful, anxious feeding with no one meeting expectations to latch or produce, IMO.
Good luck!
-breastfeeding mom of 2, daycare provider for countless formula fed babies

The Medela pumps that you rent from the hospital are the best. Try that this time and I bet you'll have better luck. Although with my first, I pumped an over abundance, and with my 2nd, it was just barely enough. Thankfully #2 latched on within a month and got plenty; much more than pumping!

My first I had a really hard time breast feeding. But the second time around he just did it. Don't worry too much. I actually know a lot of women who had a really hard time with their first, but second time they had no issues. You'll be fine, the baby will be fine, stress and worry are the worst things for your body right now. After the baby is born, if they wont latch, well jump off that bridge when you come to it. No sense working now. Good luck! You'll both be fine!

Each kid is different. With my oldest I was only able to nurse him till about 7 months and my supply was slim but with my youngest he was over a year when I quit. I also had different pumps. My kids took to it differently as well. Try not to stress out too much about it!