I returned to work a little over two months after delivering my daughter. As a new mom, I learned to pump and store milk for my baby while I was away. I had a rhythm, but I wasn't always as savvy. In fact, I am constantly learning ways to stay ahead of the demands of a growing human's appetite. Getting [even] to this point, took some time and experience. Packing up for the day takes planning and coordination. During one of my somewhat synchronized mornings, I accidentally tipped a loosely-capped bottle of milk over onto the counter. It wasn't a total waste, but at least an ounce could only be wiped up. I quickly grabbed the bottle to tighten the top. *sniff sniff* A tear welled in my eye, and then the other eye. Yes, I was crying over spilled milk. It has taken some work and dedication to get to this point, and I don't want to squander what my body produces for the benefit of myself and my baby. Let this be a reminder to tighten those bottles after pumping-lol. I can look back and chuckle at this story now, but it certainly was no joke then.
Previously submitted to
Black Women Do Breastfeed via Facebook:
"I just want to thank some and encourage other nursing moms in this group. I am a new mom of a three-week-old girl. I knew before conception that I had a desire to nurse, but I didn't know that it would be as difficult as it has been. After multiple sessions with lactation consultants and OB appointments, we were able to find a system that worked--and medication to heal my nipples (yes, it got that bad). I want the best for my daughter, and this is no indictment on mothers who are unable or decide not to breastfeed. I refused not to try every possible alternative..."
It's true. I have always envisioned myself as being a nursing mother (I used to pretend to breastfeed my dolls as a child). The new mothers in my family were nursing mothers, so breastfeeding wasn't only normalized, but expected. I did not come to learn and understand the stigma of breastfeeding (from an African American perspective) until I was older. Personally, breastfeeding (along with other birth expectations) would prove to be more challenging than I anticipated. I thought feeding my baby "from the source" would be an ease. It is a pleasure and joy to feed my child, but it initially came with a struggle; one that I was more than glad to endure. Hopefully, this will set expectations of other expectant or newly nursing moms.
Latching
Some moms have asked, "How painful is that first latch?" It really depends on you, your anatomy and sensitivity. It also depends on how your baby latches onto you. Women with protrusive nipples have less of a challenge that women with less protrusive or flat nipples. There are
nipple shields that help with this issue. The remedy for sensitivity is said to be time, but time may not be a definite either way. Some women are just more sensitive and may or may not build a resistance to nursing with her sensitivities.
Newborn Feeding
Newborn babies require more frequent feedings. Conventionally, it's advised to feed newborn babies every couple or a few hours. However, no one explains the concept of cluster feeding until you need to know (usually by a baby's demands for more, please and thank you). Needless to say, this time can take a toll on you. Your sleep pattern is altered and your body is getting used to a new sensation: nipple friction. Yes, it's a term I've just coined (you're welcome). Unfortunately, this is where the pain comes into play. The constant friction can leave the very delicate skin of the areolas and nipples raw (I just got a flashback: ouch! I shudder to think).
Medications
If necessary, be sure to learn more about medications to treat any symptoms that you may have. My OB prescribed a topical ointment that worked wonders. She told me to apply some expressed milk onto the sore areas also, as breast milk has healing properties. (cool right?) I exclusively pumped milk when the topical medication was applied. Also, no one really says this, but occasionally let your nipples air dry after feeding. That may sound odd, but rest assured it helps.
Infant Feeding and Beyond
As your baby grows her/his appetite will change. You may find that your milk supply naturally adjusts to accommodate the changes. I've gotten advice from friends and family, and I've found the formula that works for me. I use a number of supplements (e.g., Fenugreek) to help with my supply. You can find them listed in the Just for Mommy section of the Baby Registry or Supplies List.
