Breastfeeding is Natural!

I'm sure you've heard all the hype. Yes breastfeeding is indeed natural, but it isn't always naturally intuitive! While there are some couplets that seem to just work instinctively well together, for an overwhelming majority breastfeeding takes time, commitment, and WORK!

A few things to note:

1. The "Fed is Best" Movement. Please bare with as I step on and off my soap box. If you are familiar with the story and origination of this phrase, than you may understand my sentiments. I do most certainly agree that the hyper fixation on exclusive breastfeeding in some settings can be detrimental, especially when you consider that many "Baby Friendly" facilities that push this notion don't actually provide the staff or resources to help families in setting and achieving manageable goals. However lets also not be fanatics or extremists either. FED IS MINIMUM, PERIOD! It is the expectation, requirement, and foundation of infant growth and development, not a selling point. We should not be restricting an infants feeding, or feeding the choices of a family, based on our opinions; but rather creating an environment with open dialogue and one of informed choice. One filled with thorough assessment and planning to ensure the safety of the couplet no matter what that looks like, whether its exclusive direct of indirect breastfeeding, utilization of donor milk if available, or formula. The primary source of nutrition of all infants during the first year of life is breastmilk or formula, DAS IT! Breastfeeding should always be MUTUALLY beneficial. If you don't want to or are dreading attempting to breastfeed; We can provide you with resources to work through that, but only if you desire those options. There is not doubt that breastmilk is indeed the perfect source of nutrition for baby, but this is not always a feasible or accessible resource for some for many different reasons. And thats ok.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice. The time to learn how to breastfeed is not after a long labor when all you want to do is rest and maybe just gaze into the eyes of the being that your finally meeting face to face for the first time! A lot of the stress and urgency of attempting to breastfeed, especially if this is your first attempt, can be alleviated with learning and pre work well before the birth of your baby. Lactation groups and classes are an excellent resources in learning about useful skills, techniques, and the pitfalls of the nursing your infant. If you couldn't tell by now I am a very avid supporter of breastfeeding and have focused a number of projects and papers on the subject. Below you'll find a resource pamphlet I developed while completing my midwifery education. Feel free to download it for your personal use only. (Please avoid sharing the document commercially or in social media settings without obtaining express written consent and/or permission from me. I worked hard on putting it together.)

   
   

Breastfeeding Teaching Tool NMW.pdf

Download PDF • 5.33MB

3. You've got to find support, friend! La Leche League USA is a wonderful, free resource for evidence based information as well as different support groups. Not mention, you've got to practice how you want to play. What always loved about attending support groups like Le Leche League was that it made all of the goals and intentions I had set for myself and my infant REAL. I was in a setting where others openly and proudly, some more than others, breastfed their infants! This is the type of positive reinforcement needed for success. Social media is great, but it often times causes us to set unrealistic goals and for ourselves and our babies. In person and virtual support groups can be so important to continued success as well as reassurance during your breastfeeding journey! Did I mention that La Leche League meeting are free? And for my military or traveling families never fear as La Leche League is also available internationally as well. Click their logo below to go to their website for more resources and to locate a Le Leche League Leader near you.

4. Utilize evidence-based resources! Everyone will have the tips, tricks, and advice. But always keep in mind one of my favorite phrases, "Eat the fish and not the bone!" Don't be afraid to politely decline advice and don't be afraid to verify information you receive, especially if it doesn't sound right or contradicts previous education you've received. This does not mean that everything you've learned previously is false. But it is natural, and expected, for you to remain curious and vigilant of any advice you receive, even from me! A few groups I love on Facebook are Evidence-Based Breastfeeding Group, Expressions! Lactation Services, and Breastfeeding Support Group for Black Moms. For my families here in San Antonio, TX the San Antonio Breastfeeds! Support Group can be a great place to make connections and trade/donate unused supplies. When it comes to Instagram I don't have as many recommendations because the interactions and support are a lot more limited in those spaces; however, @LegendairyMilk often posts some great videos and infographics (at this time, I am no way linked or affiliated with them and I neither denounce nor support their products; purchase and use at your own risk! Remember that "eat the fish, and not the bone" bit? It applies here!)

5. Pain is NEVER ok. Never mind all the stories you've heard about needing to prepare your nipples or toughen them up in preparation for baby! These are dangerous myths that result in a lot of trauma, physically and mentally. While breastfeeding can initially be uncomfortable it should never hurt. As a nurse in training I was also taught that pain was the 5th vital sign. In my own life I have always felt that pain, while we often do not like it, usually has a purpose. Pain can be protective, think pulling your hand away from a hot, burning stove. Or even purposeful, hello movement in labor to help rotate that baby! A painful latch can let us know so many things, like a possible infection or the usual culprit, a poor latch. When ever you are experiencing pain with breastfeeding reach out to a trusted, knowledgable provider who can assess you and your baby and help you find a solution. The Kiinde graphic below is an excellent representation of normal vs abnormal breastfeeding pain.