New Year, New Thoughts

Well, we made it. 2017 is finally here. Over the last year I moved, bought a house, and took several trainings in maternal mental health. It became apparent to me that mothers need a lot more support than they are getting. What does this have to do with breastfeeding? A lot. I often tell mothers, "Healthy mom for a healthy baby", while encouraging them to rest, seek outside support, and even take carefully prescribed medication if needed. A mother who is breastfeeding often feels unable to do any of these things. How can I rest when the baby is cluster feeding? How can I go to an appointment if I can't leave the baby with anyone? Am I harming my baby if I take medication while nursing? These are all questions that may not get answered (at least correctly) for the mother. The OB may say, "You'll feel much better in six weeks" and the pediatrician may say, "The baby gained weight - good job!" A lactation consultant is in the unique position to see both mother and baby and assess their needs, while working to preserve the breastfeeding relationship. She can say, "Let's think of some ways to simplify feedings so you can get the most rest right now" or” Why don't we make up a pumping plan for the next week so it feels a little more manageable?"