4 Essential Realizations to Help Women Reach Their Breastfeeding Goals
While I obviously can’t speak from personal experience, over the years that I’ve been serving expectant mothers and witnessed the dynamics of the breastfeeding relationship — I have learned so much. In order to truly be successful in reaching her breastfeeding goals, a mother must make it a point to prepare herself psychologically and surround herself with the right resources.
Here are 4 essential realizations that I think will help women reach their breastfeeding goals.
Remember: Breastfeeding is Work.
Women struggle in the beginning weeks not only to acclimate to the change in sleep schedule, but having a tiny person whose existence is reliant on them for nutrition. The concept of breastfeeding seems easy: Baby comes out, baby latches on the nipple, baby gets milk. But there are so many things that factor in — was the birth experience traumatic? Does the mother have flat nipples? Does the child have a tongue tie? There are a lot of things to debate and wonder about. But it’s rewarding and it has exponential health benefits for your baby.
Breastfeeding requires support from EVERYONE around a woman.
A new mother sometimes experiences grief from their significant other, parents, in-laws or friends. Common things breastfeeding moms hear: “Maybe your milk is making her fussy.” “You know, we would really like to feed the baby, too.” Not everyone is supportive of breastfeeding. Surround yourself with like-minded mothers by joining your local La Leche League. You’re not alone in your difficulties and as soon as you start educating those around you, you’ll be much more likely to succeed in the long term.
Breastfeeding can be compromised by the tiniest “Booby Trap”
Booby traps are a real thing. They come in the form of formula companies sending samples to pregnant mothers, your pediatrician questioning how much the baby is getting, suggested supplementation, babies being overfed at daycare, short maternity leaves, poor advice and judgment from others. Everywhere you turn there is a breastfeeding obstacle. Make sure that you are prepared to handle them.
Breastfeeding mothers need a community.
It’s difficult to reach any goal without a supportive community. I recommend that my patients join the BRAS — Breastfeeding Resources and Support group on Facebook. This group is comprised of thousands of breastfeeding women, midwives, lactation consultants and veteran breastfeeding moms. It’s a great place to vent, get support and ask questions.
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is a great resource to start with and addresses many of the issues that women experience as they embark on their breastfeeding relationship. Breastfeeding is best for babies.