@lansinoh_fr

The number one thing I was the MOST unprepared for postpartum? Breastfeeding. 

Breastfeeding is such a unique journey for everyone. For me, it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I was induced two weeks early because I had gestational hypertension and then developed preeclampsia around 36 weeks. My baby had jaundice so I couldn’t hold her skin to skin very much those first 4 days in the hospital. I was sick and recovering – breastfeeding did not come naturally to me.

This was so hard and so emotional. I was affected by this much more than I thought I would be. The idea that I couldn’t nourish my baby from my own body had me spiraling. I felt terribly sad about it. Logically, I knew that fed was best and that my baby was thriving, getting all of the nutrients she needed, but emotionally it was a totally different story. I knew I had to ride those feelings out, get support, and I decided to try my best to breastfeed my baby.

I tried everything to increase my milk supply, and while I did have success at times and so many beautiful bonding moments with my babe I, unfortunately, could not sustain it long-term. I supplemented donor milk and formula from day one due to my baby’s jaundice, and gradually over time, I produced less and less breast milk. No matter my effort, breastfeeding was not the way I had hoped it would be.

I am clearly not writing this post as some kind of expert – for a long time I considered myself a total failure at breastfeeding. Now I know that I am not a failure and that I gave it my absolute all while appreciating the beautiful moments my daughter and I shared. I will never forget those moments.

The reason I am sharing my story is in hopes that it helps someone else. If this is even remotely close to your experience, please know that you are not alone and that all of your feelings are valid. I also want to share this story in order to shift the narrative that breastfeeding is an easy and accessible way for everyone to feed their baby. For some it is, but it’s definitely not for everyone despite the planning, preparation, or research that goes into it. 

10 ways I supported my breastfeeding body

1. Utilized Lactation Nurse | I used the hospital lactation line a lot when I got home. This is a free resource offered by most hospitals.
2. Focused on Nourishing + Easy Meals | I ate a lot of leafy greens, flaxseed, oats, brewers yeast, and every combination of Mother Bowls from The First Forty Days.
3. Rested (as much as possible) | The more I was up and doing things the less milk my body made. Rest was hard for me, but I made it a priority.
4. Water | I made a 64 oz/ day goal for myself
5. Nipple Shields | These were my savior and a big game-changer for me because they allowed me to breastfeed efficiently by helping my babe latch easily. They also create a barrier so they took away nipple pain.
6. Mothers Milk Tea from Traditional Medicinals | Incorporates fennel, anise, coriander, fenugreek, and blessed thistle to create a breastfeeding tea that helps promote lactation.
7. Motherlove More Milk Special Blend Tincture | The only supplement that really worked for me. The taste is rough – just being honest – but I saw an increase in my supply within 24 hours.
8. Lactation Cookies | My doula was an angel and brought these over for me. They are high in brewer’s yeast which is known to increase supply.
9. My Breast Friend Pillow | Being comfortable when breastfeeding can also increase your supply. There were days where I would feed for an hour! So glad I had this.
10. Elvie Breast Pump | wireless and has an app. the only way i continued to feed as long as I did was bc of these portable pumps detailed review coming soon

The main thing I want to remind you of is that no matter how you are feeding your baby, it is the absolute right way and the best decision for them. Sending you love on this incredibly complex journey and standing in solidarity with all the mamas who wish desperately they could breastfeed their babies and can’t.

Xx

Kaitlin

*This post does not provide medical advice. Always consult your care team.