“I want to try.” Because we care about our doula clients ability to reach their goals, we ask everyone if they plan to breastfeed, feed their baby formula, or some combination. And usually, when our labor doula clients are talking about breastfeeding, they say, “I want to try. I don’t know if it will work, or for how long, but I want to try.”
We’ve supported a lot of families who decide breastfeed their babies. And we really want to reassure you of something:
If you desire to breastfeed your child, you can usually accomplish this goal.
Sometimes it takes support, and a little bit of extra information. And there are things that will make it easier for some than others. But there are a lot of myths surrounding breastfeeding, that don’t set women up to believe in their ability to breastfeed.
Some of the common breastfeeding concerns that we hear are:
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I have small breasts. Will I be able to make enough milk?
This one is easy. Rest assured, that the size of your breast has little to do with the amount of storage capacity. Much of our breast tissue isn’t related to the milk making or transport at all and you can’t see your mammary gland size by taking a bra measurement.
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I’ll need (or want) to give the baby a bottle sometimes.
It’s common for families (even those who breastfeed for a long time) to want to use bottles on occasion. Other people who aren’t breastfeeding may want to bond with the baby (though there are many ways bond). You may breastfeed often, but want a break. You’re allowed to take a shower, ya know?
And if you’re like most of our clients, you’re planning to return to work well before your child can depend only on solid foods for nutrition (not until they’re a year old).
All of that’s cool! It will be fine!
Breastfeeding is not all or nothing.
Your baby can eat a bottle of expressed milk. Breast pumps are excellent tools. You can also use formula to supplement breastmilk.
And if you’re worried about nipple confusion, don’t be.
As postpartum doulas and infant feeding specialists, we can show you how to paced feed your baby, so that you can make the transition from bottle to breast and back a bit easier.
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I had a breast reduction/ breast augmentation or other surgery.
This concern is one of those that tends to require extra support to resolve. Depending on the techniques of the surgery, and some key factors (scar tissue within your breasts, where any incisions were located, and what impact surgery had on your nipples), there may be additional breastfeeding challenges. Or, it’s possible that things will be easy.
If you’re pregnant, want to breastfeed and have previously had breast surgery, it’s a good idea to get a copy of your medical and surgical records, and make an appointment during pregnancy with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
We have relationships with lactation professionals in DC, Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Waldorf. We’re happy to help you navigate this process, and help you find people who can help you make a plan if you want to breastfeed after a reduction or with breast implants.
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I have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or fertility issues.
Much of breastfeeding is hormonal. And some of the same hormones involved in our ability to conceive, also influence our ability to breastfeed. So this set of concerns comes from a very sensible place.
PCOS and other hormonal imbalances are common, and sometimes difficult to diagnose and treat. But while PCOS can impact your ability to breastfeed, there is a great possibility that you will be able to breastfeed your baby, with the right support.
Meeting an IBCLC during pregnancy is a great way to begin working towards your breastfeeding goals when you have PCOS. A lactation professional can help you find ways to work towards the best possible supply, and we’re happy to support you as you do this.
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I couldn’t breastfeed my first baby.
If the first attempt at breastfeeding didn’t work, a bit more fear and apprehension can enter the equation if you want to try again. We get it. But like so many times in life, it’s important to avoid making assumptions.
You’ll want to explore the reasons that your earlier breastfeeding relationship didn’t go smoothly. Was there a physical issue? Did you have support? What about challenges that your baby experienced?
Just like every pregnancy and birth is different, so is every breastfeeding relationship. Siblings don’t always have the same experience, and that’s okay. If you’d like to try again, then you should, and we can help you find ways to make this time different.
These aren’t the only things that expectant parents worry about when it comes to breastfeeding their babies. And making sure that your baby is well-fed and cared for is a big deal. We get it.
But we want to encourage you to take a deep breath. (Of course we do– we’re doulas.)
If you take nothing away from this post, please know two things:
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Support makes all of early parenting (including feeding the baby) better. There are plenty of resources to help you navigate breastfeeding, and you don’t have to go it alone.
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Breastfeeding relationships look different for every family, and every child. It’s not a one size fits all, and you can find the way that works for you.
No matter what you decide, we’re here to support you. Schedule a call with us!
