Sharing our stories helps us connect. Our stories hold power and let others know they are not alone. Nurture has asked families to share their feeding journeys with us. Below is Allison’s story. Enjoy 🙂
Tell us a little about your feeding journey
This photo is of me and my son when he was 8 weeks old. He had transferred 3.5 ounces and I was crying happy tears for sure! Our early weeks of breastfeeding were full frustrations and lots and lots of pumping. Due to a recessed chin and tongue tie, he was not able to sustain a latch and needed a long time to build up the strength/coordination to transfer anything beyond a few milliliters. This wasn’t my dream for my maternity leave and I was often full of doubt. Every lactation visit, Julie would calmly assure me that I was doing all the right things. She helped us increase his strength and also transition from pump to breastfeeding (which was my goal). We are coming up on a year since this photo and it is hard to remember just how challenging this journey has been. It included many issues: latch problems, mastitis, blebs, decreased supply following mastitis. However, the overarching feeling I have about breastfeeding is JOY! All the hard stuff was so worth it.
How did IBCLC lactation care impact you?
I am not sure I would have been able to persevere without Julie’s encouraging and calm presence. And I’m so glad I did! We breastfed through one year and will wean when we both feel ready.
What advice you would want to pass along to an expecting parent?
Educate yourself about breastfeeding before birth. Schedule a lactation visit for the first day or so after being home from the hospital. You deserve support and care. Do not be afraid to ask for help. <3
Thank you, Allison, for sharing your feeding journey story!
Have you worked with Nurture and would like to have your story highlighted? Complete this quick form!