So, yesterday we went to the GI doctor, and he confirmed from the X-RAY the day before that Callie does have reflux, so he upped her Zantac prescription.
In regards to the colicky behavior and fussiness, we tested her stools for blood, and in fact, there were blood cells present, which means she has an allergy to milk protein.
Mommy had already cut out basic dairy products: milk, cheese, yogurt etc.
This was a big decision to make yesterday. There were two options: 1- continue breastfeeding like I preferred for antibodies and immunities, however, cut out ALL dairy and soy products and read all labels and eliminate eating out completely. The list of foods that have hidden dairy in them was INSANE. Knowing me, and how my stressors work, this would cause way too much stress on me. Did you know SHERBET has a milk protein in it?! Did you know "caramel coloring" has traces of milk protein in it? Did you know anything that says soy lecithin (almost anything lol) has milk protein traces? Basically, in order to continue breastfeeding, I would need to become Vegan, and that does not fit my lifestyle at all. Can you imagine me? I mean, shoot that would be a great way to lose 30 lbs like I want (my goal is to fit in my "skinny" size clothes that I had bought after losing 21 lbs before we tried to get pregnant!)
Anywho... so we started Callie on formula. She is on a special formula -Nutramigen. I have missed the bonding of breast feeding, but at least I have given it my best shot. I successfully made it to 1 month and 1 week. She had JUST mastered being an efficient and alert eater THAT DAY- oh well. I think she at least got immunities that long from me, which is better than nothing. I can always try with Baby #2 someday (once I forgot how hard this one was!)
I will tell you what- some differences we noticed right away: Good things: less fussy for sure, less gas cries out loud, slept better, more alert. Bad things: Poop has changed immediately from a non-smelly breast-fed poop to stinkeroonies! The formula also has an odor to it!
BUT- AGAIN, Baby's health is first, and this is what I want for her- healthy baby. My thoughts on breastfeeding was to help her avoid getting all of my medical issues: arthritis, asthma, allergies, fibromyalgia, Diabetes from Kahlil's family's side etc. Not sure if that HELPS delay any genetic medical conditions and issues, but my thought was preventative measures because I know how I have been affected for 13 years with those issues.
The weaning off of breastfeeding is going to take almost a month. I have to pump one less time per feed in a bottle of formula every 2-3 days. Not fun, but better than engorgement for a solid month.
I feel guilty about having my expensive Medela In Style pump from my inlaws, but I am still USING it, and will attempt breastfeeding again with Baby #2.
I do feel less stressed today, since my Mother in Law and Hubby already have fed Callie in a bottle (formula), which allowed me to pump a few mins, which is way less than a 30 minute breast feeding session, plus consoling after (milk allergy reaction/gas/fuss)... so, it has helped in that sense. I DO feel guilty when she was crying yesterday, that I could not "solve" it temporarily with breastfeeding (it cures anything!)
Oh well- it is what it is, and I want the "Happiest Baby on the Block." Not sure if the colic will disappear completely, but we shall see. Considering the Pediatrician said she had SEVER Colic, I am curious to compare it now.
We have one more formula option if this formula still aggravates her belly. Additionally, we may go see an Osteopath, if we need.
Hoping to make more HAPPY BABY POSTS. We didn't enjoy the 2.5 hour crying sessions (Sorry Callie).
Stay tuned for the updates.
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