Hi,
Struggling to cope with a new diagnosis of invasive breast cancer, trying to stop breastfeeding my 8 month old baby (who is refusing to drink anything from a bottle/cup) and recovering from my operation on Thursday. My breast is so engorged with milk I’m worried it’s going to burst the stitches! And my baby is having temperatures of 40 and getting very dry - I’m trying to spoon in the runniest weetabix I can as he won’t drink! I keep on caving in and giving him ‘one last breastfeed’ from the ‘good’ side which is probably making him more confused and which can’t continue as I’ll have to start chemo soon. Anyone else been in this sorry situation? Any words of wisdom?!
Thank you
Zoe
Dear Zoe
Welcome to the BCC forum. I am sure other members will soon be along to offer you some support.
You can also phone our Helpline to talk things over. The opening times are 9-5 on weekdays and 10-2 on Saturdays. The number is 0808 800 6000.
Very best wishes
Janet
BCC Moderator
Hiya Zoe,
I’ve not been on this situation - but i didnt want to read and run and i am also hoping this gets bumped so someone else may answer for you.
I am sure there must have been other in your situation.
Really hope you get some responses.
Rachael
x
I’m sorry I can’t help your personal situation but thought it might help to bump you up to the top…
I would recommend you speak to the baby clinic as I’m sure they would have more experience in this field…
They may be something you can take to dry up the milk, I think they used to give something for that… Yeast tablets
My heart goes out to you, I’m currently half way chemo and no baby, but did have engorged breasts with mine 19 years ago so I know the stress that goes with that.
You know for a peaceful baby you must get this sorted before chemo starts, so you are going to have to get advice…
Mine wouldn’t take from breast, so I tried putting teat of bottle on my nipple to help him to bottle feed… It did work in the end…
Keep strong
Maggie x
Hiya, really sorry to hear about your situation. My second son refused to drink anything expect breast milk delivered direct from me, so I know a little of what you are going through, though I was dealing with that without the added ‘sparkle’ of a blummin breast cancer diagnosis at the time. I went down the weetabix route with mine, but also yoghurt, cheese sauce, those fruit pots etc and (shocking suggestion follows alert…) have you thought about giving baby some juice to tempt him to drink something cos this isn’t your run of the mill weaning off breast situation so normal rules don’t apply! I am part of the Facebook group Raechi mentioned, and I only mention this because I know there are other girls with us who have been in your exact position who may be able to help, but they don’t post on here. Sending you huge hugs
Vickie
Xxx