Hello folks,

Been away for a while doing the baby thing. And boy, I need some suggestions!

I have an unhappy 2 mo old-- and it should go w/o saying that the whole family is pretty unhappy when she'sscreaming too

The pregnancy wasn't too bad. Relatively speaking. Vomiting/nausea for 5mos, an excellent 2nd trimester, and rough third. Third difficult due to joint/ back pain. All weight was centered in the abdominal area, hence the strain. Chiropractic and accupuncture greatly relieved. Stress in the first trimester due to financial insecurity and dh's jobs: away much and then changed to an uncertain sales position. Lack of sleep and active other children caused uneven and low tolerance in last trimester. Accupucture addressed all these concerns, but only temporary reprieves.

Birth was good. At home and very quick due to positionning exercises. 4 hours noticeable labor; 1 1/2 hours hard labor. Sudden transition before midwife's arrival-- but neither hub nor I lost control (were praying to Yahweh in a mighty way though!) One topical, small tear, scant bleeding. All other factors great. Harsh cramping following, but excellent nursing/milk supply.

Average weight and length, Apgar 10. First week very sleepy, but after our troubles began. Lots of burping, some spitting up of milk curds, and much wind. Only she has a dreadful time getting it out, must "work" on it for hours some times. BM's irregular- maybe every 3 days (and cries often while passing it). Stool appears shiny/slimy like gelatin; not as other breastfed stools I've seen.

I wonder about food allergies since my hub's family has some. I've reduced the cow's milk to nearly nothing (but substitutes are garbage). Did an elimination period for goat's milk and she seems to have no reaction to that Most docs here have refused to test her, saying she is too young. All I get so far is to comfort her, lower distractions/noises and swaddle. Castor oil wraps (w/hot water bottle) help a little as does Hyland's (Standard Homeopathic Co.) Colic tabs. I say a little though-- neither truly provide full relief.

Oh, temperment too-- she seems angry much of the time, with all the straining except when she's feeling well, then very quiet,content and a little cooing. Sleeps on her side when nursing at night, sleeps on belly during day. "Asks" to go to bed, emphatic crying for after dinner nap and bedtime. Sleeps pretty well (except waking 2-3 times to nurse) close to me at night.

Hope this isn't too extensive. We'd greatly appreciate some direction or referral. We'd love to really love this baby, but she's so draining that we aren't able to do that yet. I'm not sure how to lower the stress with the almost constant crying etc.

Be well. Thank you in advance.
dAnne