By The Green Parent

06th August 2021

World Breastfeeding Week runs from August 1-7. Breastfeeding is the gold standard of child nutrition, and absolutely free!

By The Green Parent

06th August 2021

By The Green Parent

06th August 2021

However, it’s not always an easy – or even possible – journey. We asked our Facebook and Instagram followers about their feeding experiences, and where they found help, and – oh my – did the floodgates open. We’ve shared a few stories here…

“Until social media opened the doors for mothers to discuss their potential struggles with motherhood I think many people just thought breastfeeding was automatic. It’s so important to keep this awareness up and support mental health during and post pregnancy.” francescaklottrup via Instagram

“My number one advice is feed on demand. If only I had known La Leche League before, breastfeeding would have been much easier. When I had my second daughter I fed on demand which, in the beginning, was practically all the time.” Eva Wedervang-Jensen via Facebook

“Breastfeeding education should be taught antenatally or even part of the school curriculum as part of nutrition. For me both breastfeeding journeys were more painful and difficult to start than giving birth. But the knowledge I’ve gained is incredible. Freedom of choice is fundamental when feeding your baby, but it should be an informed choice.” harrietmdoe via Instagram

“I have tandem fed a toddler and a baby, and I have fed two children beyond toddlerhood. I intend to feed my third until she self weans. I felt I had to fight to get support each time. My ability to breastfeed successfully was intrinsically linked to my post-partum mental health. The grief I felt when my daughter refused the breast was deep and unacknowledged by society, I will be forever grateful to the NHS IBC lactation consultant who helped us get back on track. They not only saved our breastfeeding relationship but also my mental health..” Tessa Durham via Facebook

“La Leche League were a massive help for me. I called them a few times for advice over the phone and also read their brilliant book The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. I persevered until things became easier and then carried on breastfeeding until my son was five!” neatlydoesitsilver via Instagram

NURSING COMFORT

Body Silk Nursing Bra, £34, uk.bravadodesigns.com - The ultimate seamless, comfortable experience. It is the perfect everyday, at home, on-the-go, anytime nursing bra.

Organic Nursing Top, £29, welovefrugi.com - With a clever panel on the front which can be lifted to reveal the hidden side openings underneath, this top is ideal for comfortable feeding!

Reusable bamboo breast pads, £10.95, mamadesigns.co.uk - Made from super soft bamboo. They are ultra absorbent, yet slim and discreet. A double layer of bamboo fleece and an invisible waterproof coating prevent leaks.

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