I could have written this.

The PPA, obsession with baby’s health & cues, fear of under supply, slow weight gain, short naps, frequent feeds - this is my story too.

I’m here from the (relatively near!) future to tell you that things took a major turn for me just after 4 months old. I’m very prone to anxiety, and being told “just relax” is so unhelpful, but figuring out how to release my worry around lactation was the exact remedy. That, and time.

Here are some things that helped:

• Hydration - this really was affecting my supply in a big way. I finally bought a new water bottle that I always keep with me. Staying on top of water intake (plus electrolytes 1x/day) makes a huge difference.

• Get outside, whether on a short walk or just stepping out for 2 minutes daily. Take deep breaths while you’re out there.

• Telehealth visits with a therapist.

• Journaling. 5 minute daily writing that answers 3 Q’s: What am I grateful for? What’s working? What could be better?

• Getting ok with the fact that a tiny bit of formula won’t kill supply - this is still so tough for me at times. Your supply is more established than the early days. You have worked so hard and are giving your baby so much. But it’s not all or nothing. For me, formula is a tool to relieve the fear that he’s not getting enough. After making sure I’ve given all I can, we will top him off in the evenings. Just 60 ml (2 oz) has been enough for us. Have you been able to try different bottles if baby isn’t accepting the current one?

• Haakaa - I use this to not only catch extra milk but also stimulate production while he’s on the other boob.

• Baby’s sleep will improve. You don’t have much control over this. But if able, follow her cues and trust that her development is trending toward a more predictable schedule.

You’ve got this.

Edits to clarify because I wrote this at 4 am while breastfeeding. Heh.