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I’ve blogged about breastfeeding before. I mentioned it when I wrote about getting a lip tie revised, and I mentioned it again when I was publicly shamed for feeding my hungry baby. I spend a lot of time breastfeeding, thinking about breastfeeding, and talking about breastfeeding. Which is no surprise, really, when you think about the fact that I’ve nursed my little girl about 3,179 times since she was born, almost 10 months ago. No, I didn’t make that number up. I have a nerdy baby data tracker that tells me these things.
Last week, I had the opportunity to participate on a “panel of mothers” at a breastfeeding conference held to educate medical personnel at the local hospitals. I had the opportunity to talk about my breastfeeding journey and offer some suggestions for how one might better help breastfeeding moms. (Hint: be supportive, don’t say dumb things.) My particular journey started out quite bumpy, with a whole host of problems. Through everything, I persevered. But I’m not sure I would have been able to make it through all the challenges without the incredible knowledge and support of an IBCLC — an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
Seriously, if breastfeeding is not going well, find yourself an IBCLC before you give up. It can make all the difference.
I love the lactation consultant I worked with, so I’ve tried to find a few ways to thank her for the tremendous help she’s been. This week, I made her a little doll, similar to the one I made for Alexis awhile back.
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This doll is a babywearing mama, complete with a ring sling and tiny baby. If dolls breastfeed, I’m sure this one does. Thanks again, IBCLC. I can’t say it enough.
