I have a few questions following DS's routine visit to the pediatrician yesterday.
I had always found him "breastfeeding friendly" and I was surprised by a few of his suggestions and would like the opinon of other breastfeeding mums.
Firstly, he said that DS should only be nursing 5-6 times a day at this stage (16.5 weeks). I have been feeding on demand which usually comes to 7-9 nursing sessions in 24 hours. Is DS nursing too often? He said that I shouldn't nurse when he wakes at night and just put him back to sleep. DS usually only wakes to nurse once between 10pm and 6am and then only has a quick snack in the morning before looking for a proper feed at around 8ish.
He also said that I should give DS water when he is thirsty. Would this not damage my supply?
Finally, we discussed introducing solids. He agreed that it is best to wait until 6 months. However, he said that once DS is eating solids he will only need to nurse 3 times a day - morning, evening and bedtime - and he can go without while I am at work. I can't believe this is enough milk for DS! I won't be entitled to pumping breaks at work once DS turns 6 months so I would need to plan ahead to have a suitable milk stash in place. How much milk would a 6+ month old who eats solids require during the day (8am until 6pm)?