Let’s get it started!
Galatians 1:15
But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace.
So often I get asked why I feel prenatal breastfeeding education and ongoing support is so important.
Every breastfeeding experience is unique. As a three-time breastfeeding mom I can attest to this fact, without a doubt, that no two breastfeeding experiences are alike – even within families. Each child and parent has their own personality and physical differences. That said, nursing your child is very much comparable to a journey – and there will be bumps in the road. Yet evidence tells us that mothers who feel encouraged and supported in their breastfeeding experience tend to breastfeed longer than those with no support at all.
Years ago, when breastfeeding was the only option, women saw mothers, sisters and friends latch a baby. In our modern world and western culture, it is not often that we are provided the opportunity for up close and personal observations of others breastfeeding their infants. As a result, many mothers enter into breastfeeding and the postpartum phase with unrealistic expectations. Therefore, seeking prenatal education and ongoing support in the form of a class, program, consultation or group is important because:
Breastfeeding takes practice. It is commonly said “breastfeeding is natural, but it does not come naturally.” Moms and babies have some instinctive skills but it does take thought, collaboration and practice. The greatest risk of breastfeeding discontinuation occurs within 2 weeks of hospital discharge – what is happening in this timeframe? Receiving support during the antepartum and earliest postpartum weeks will equip you with the tools you need to keep going when bumps come along.
There is a lot of misinformation surrounding breastfeeding out there. Prenatal and postpartum consultations give opportunities for feeding parents and their partners to observe and ask questions. It is important to identify and acknowledge your own personal fears and perceptions associated with breastfeeding: Will you experience pain? Embarrassment? Concerns of inadequacy of breast size or appearance?
Knowledge increases confidence. By seeking a consultation, taking our program or other educational classes and/or support groups, you will develop a sense of empowerment about your own personal knowledge, skills, and capability to provide your baby with optimal nutrition and improve health outcomes for you both.
In parenthood, you will encounter challenges… it may be in the hospital or after going home, when you return to work or one of you becomes sick; but you can overcome. We will always be here for you. At Gratitude & Grace Lactation, our goal is to help you have a “successful” breastfeeding experience – whatever that “success” looks like for you. You are amazing, Mama. Like a Mama Bear you are devoted to your baby and will do anything to love, protect and nourish them well – we hope to better prepare, support, and encourage you in this experience.
Even if you don’t think you plan on breastfeeding, most healthcare providers would encourage you to obtain knowledge regarding feeding your infant. In our prenatal consultations and/or program, we will address many topics surrounding what to expect the first few weeks at home with your newborn, including how to tell if your baby is hungry, elimination patterns and infant sleep cycles and when to seek additional assistance. Don’t hesitate to reach our for more information!
With Gratitude & Grace,
- Krista
