What we are currently using is a gerryrigged version of an SNS (supplemental feeding system). It's a feeding tube (5 French) attached to a 12 ml syringe. I make up two 9 oz bottles of formula each night and put them in the fridge. I then pour an ounce or two at a time into a smaller bottle (K is very inconsistent about how much she takes at a feeding) and draw it into the syringe. The tubes are tape on each breast basically right at the nipple. K latches on and I make sure the tube is in her mouth. I push the syringe based on how quickly she is swallowing. It's a bit messy and cumbersome, but it gets nourishment into her and hopefully avoids reducing my milk supply any further. I may consider getting a manufactured SNS after we see how long we might need this.
If anyone has been able to wean off formula back to just breastmilk, I need some ideas for talking to my doctor once we can get her weight gain where he wants it. I am pumping, but feeding is so timing-consuming I don't get to pump much and I haven't gotten my new pump yet. Right now I'm getting about 3 oz a day if I'm lucky. I am considering donated breastmilk.
I also used a SNS for feedings during the day, once L. was up to the weight they wanted I dropped using it a one feeding, when he was still good at the next weight check ~ dropped another 2, leaving us with twice ~ then at his four month appt they said I could just stop it I wanted. Hang in there, prayers.
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