Getting a pacemaker while breastfeeding

Hi,
I am new to this website and 'club' in general. I am getting a pacemaker this Friday, and am currently breastfeeding my 3 month old son.

I am under the impression from the doctor that I will be 'in and out'- unless there are complications, it doesn't sound like I will be staying the night. He also didn't express any concerns about me breastfeeding. Depending on what anesthetic they give me, I will be not feeding for a certain amount of time, but what I am worried about is feeding during recovery. I have no idea what to expect regarding pain, etc. It seems that everyone has very different experiences but I have yet to hear of anyone in my situation. I am also concerned about managing my son. I will have a lot of help, but I am his momma, holding him is not going to stop, especially since I am feeding him. I should be able to manage not lifting the little 14 lb-er, but holding him is a must.

Unfortunately the timing of this is crappy, and it was either now, or years down the road, which would be taking a chance on my life.

Can anyone weigh in on how difficult this may be, painfulat the incision site, is the general area sore, etc?

Thanks!

Amanda

3 Comments

Pillows

by Porkypig - 2014-06-16 03:06:43

I have a very low pain threshold so you may find it very different to me but I was in a lot of pain for about 4
or 5 days and the weight of my breasts without a bra on made it worst, I guess you are going to be very limited on any pain killers you can to take too, I would recommend lots of pillows to help position baby when feeding, of course you still need to hold him and pick him up so just remember to use the other arm when poss. I have 4 kids so I know that you just have to get on with it after. my first PM I was in and out in 6 hours and second one I was out the next day but that was because I was on iv for infection. good luck for Friday. lets us know how you get on.

will be thinking of you on Friday.
Dawn

Poor Girl

by NiceNiecey - 2014-06-16 04:06:49

Wow, it does appear to be bad timing doesn't it. But don't worry. As Porky Pig said, everyone's pain tolerance is different. Mine is fairly high so it wasn't really that bad.

Breastfeeding may feel a bit weird with your milk letting down. Ordinarily, I'd suggest icing the incision before nursing but that's counterproductive! Perhaps ice it afterwards. I really didn't need any pain meds except Tylenol after the first night.

Thankfully your baby is still a newborn and probably isn't into smacking your boob around while he's nursing yet! (If this is your first, chest banging is in your future!)

You may want to spend the first night in the hospital and pump your breasts. They should have an electric Medela breast pump and they work great and the lactation consultant will help you.

One thing to remember is that you may have difficulty getting your bra fastened the first couple weeks.

I think you'll do fine. Please let us know.

Niecey

Oxytocin

by Bostonstrong - 2014-06-16 10:06:26

There is some evidence that this hormone, released while nursing, can decrease inflammation and promote wound healing. You are right, holding him is a must. Best of luck with everything.

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