Low supply story addendum...
I've received some feedback which reminded me, I should have added these thoughts...
First, I do have hypothyroid. I was on synthroid throughout my pregnancy and did have my levels checked during my pregnancy. Still, I believe this was/is a factor in my supply problems. Unfortunately there is not much research going on about lactation at all, much less lactation and thyroid function. There was just a study done about hypothyroid and pregnancy though, which is kind of interesting.
http://www.obgynnews.com/article/PIIS0029743707703762/fulltext
Second, I would like to say that I changed pediatricians. I actually also changed lactation consultants. And my perception of my midwife's skill changed because of my experience. (I realized she was a) not a lactation consultant and b) not a pediatrician!) Frankly it was pretty obvious that my baby was getting skinny and all was not right, and all of these care providers should have noticed it sooner. Let's not even get into the guilt I feel over not taking action about it sooner!
Here's a photo...
You couldn't tell when she was wearing clothes...
...but all those care providers saw her in just a diaper.
I hope any new mom reading this who is wondering about their supply either rents a scale (accurate to tenths of an ounce) or goes to their pediatricians office and asks if they can do a test weight. That is where you weigh the baby, nurse, then weigh the baby again. At least it gives you ammo. Knowledge is power. I wish I'd done it sooner, instead of spending days and weeks agonizing, thinking ... "Hmmm, she is definitely swallowing. No she isn't. Yes she is. No she isn't." Truly I drove myself crazy and the only way to really *know* is with test weights! I will rent a scale when I have my next baby.
Please keep the comments and questions coming. I know there are moms with low milk supply who are the shy, quiet types out there, and hopefully they can benefit from any questions the less shy mamas ask! :)