Someone once told me that breastfeeding was natural and shouldn't hurt unless there is user error involved. As a new mother, my self confidence was already in the dumps and this little pep talk did nothing more than make me feel inadequate and frustrated with my own body. My eyes continuously scanned the room for the closest clock as I mentally prepared for the next feeding. I knew I would kindly gaze into my little ones eyes, position myself, take a deep breath, and latch. Stress flooded my entire being as I knew what was coming next. Toe curling agonizing pain seared through my breast, but I gritted my teeth and told myself it was going to be okay and it would get better in time.
My pediatrician told me nothing was wrong. He didn't believe in tongue ties, but sent his associate in to take a look to make me feel better. The other doctor checked and declared that my baby was free from any ties and that the options were to either grit my teeth or switch to formula. Let me be completely honest with you in saying that I wasn't opposed to formula, but I really had a desire to make breastfeeding work. I didn't feel like feeding my baby formula was a failure of any sort, but I also wanted to maintain the goals I had originally set if possible.
I wish I would have known better from the very beginning. I wish I would have reached out for help from experts in breastfeeding. I wish I wouldn't have relied on google and the advice of friends, family, and well meaning doctors who didn't know much about breastfeeding. I also wish my story wasn't the story of many others in our community. A story of wrong advice from kind people, inaccurate information from the people we trust to know the answers, and thinking things would just get better in time.
So how do you figure out where to get help? How do you know if the advice you're being given is up to date and accurate?
Enter lactation consultants in Lexington, KY! Baby Moon has been the source for breastfeeding and lactation services for over a decade and we continue to serve families with unparalleled support, guidance, and dedication. Maybe you've had a negative breastfeeding experience in the past. Maybe this is your first time and you want to ensure the most positive start possible. Maybe you'd rather not run the risk of having hamburger nipples! No matter what the reason, we are here to support you!
When others are telling you there isn't anything wrong, yet you know something is indeed wrong. When your breastfeeding goals are being diminished, and you don't want that to happen. When your nipples are crying out for help and others are telling you to suck it up or just bottle-fed. Know that we are here in your corner to cheer you on and give a quality assessment based on current evidence and practices.
Join us for the best breastfeeding classes in Lexington, taught by an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Latched and Pump and Grind. If you're ready to schedule your consult, please contact us!
Happy Breastfeeding!
Julie and the rest of the team!