The challenges of breast feeding

Bloody nipples, scabs, sleepless nights, you name it

By: Mar y Sol "Maudie" Miller, BS, IBCLC

I started working for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Program about 7 months out of college. I remember thinking, "I've got this nutrition thing down, this should be so easy!" Haha, wrong. What I encountered was much more humbling in more ways than one.

Being raised as an only child, I had no idea all the shenanigans that kids could get into. Mind you, I was seeing newborns through 5 year-olds, as well as their parents. My mind was blown. At first I was self-conscious because some people made it clear through their attitudes of, "How could I possibly know anything when I didn't have my own kids?" The answer is I don't know everything (no one does), but I have the gifts of patience, a full-night's sleep, creativity, and the wisdom of having seen A LOT of families. For example, some people have their first baby and it's a walk in the park. They have their second and realize that they're not like their sibling AT ALL. The benefit of my experience is I've seen all that repeatedly play out for the last 11 years. I know how to help you. I can share with you what has worked and what hasn't worked for thousands of other families.

So what have I seen? I've seen nipples look like hamburger meat, I've seen partially fallen off nipples, I've seen them inverted, flat, different shapes, sizes, colors, textures, and the list goes on. Here's one thing that I know for sure Mermaid Mamas, don't be ashamed of what you've been given. If I had a dollar for every time someone was embarrassed to show me their stuff I'd be rich. Remember, as a lactation consultant, I just want to help you feed your baby with what you've got. Don't be embarrassed if this all feels too new to you. And to the seasoned mamas out there - again, just because you've already had a baby doesn't mean it's going to go down the same way this time.

So what are the things that I hear a lot? Here we go...

• "No one told me it would be this hard."

• "But my first never did this!"

• "I'm scared of falling asleep while I'm feeding."

• "How can this much boob possibly go into that tiny, little mouth?"

• "My nipple is too big!"

• "Baby won't open his mouth!"

• "She keeps falling asleep."

• "Is it normal for me to have cramps while I'm feeding?"

• "My hand is tired of holding my breast."

• "I'm scared I'm going to hurt baby if I hold them that way."

• "I have to push them in how fast?"

So if you feel confused or think a question sounds ridiculous (trust me, it does not) that is natural and ok. Remember that you are not alone. Professional help is only a click away. And most importantly, I hear you and want to help you.

Much love Mermaid Mamas! Y'all are amazing. Mamas are my heroes. I don't know how y'all do it, but I do know how to guide you through it successfully and without judgment. I'm honored to be by your side to help you in your journey.