11/06/2026
Jessica shares her story about breastfeeding with a nursing supplementer - giving her baby more milk at the breast. The article on our website gives more information about how to make that happen.
"I really wanted to share my story for other women who may be in a similar situation. On day three, I was readmitted to hospital as my baby had lost 14.5% of his birth weight. I felt like I had failed as a mother, not being able to provide for my baby.
I joined LLL Farnham when my baby was 7 weeks old and I'd been triple feeding (breastfeeding, formula bottle top ups and pumping 8 times a day) the whole time. It was here I was given the recommendation to use a supplementer. At first, I was hesitant to try a supplementer, because I was worried it would be complicated or difficult to use. I started with a homemade supplementer, which worked really well. It felt much more natural and helped me feel that I was truly breastfeeding.
After just over two weeks of using a supplementer, I noticed that my milk supply had significantly increased. It has also meant that I no longer need to pump, and helped my mental health. I don’t think people talk enough about the emotional toll it takes on mothers who feel they can’t provide for their own child. I can honestly say that using a supplementer has saved my breastfeeding journey."
Jessica
laleche.org.uk/nursing-supplementers/