Black Breastfeeding Week is bittersweet. It says, “Hey, there is enough of an issue that World Breastfeeding Week is no longer cutting it.” If anything it’s a black versus black week; it’s about trying to change the outlook on the breastfeeding from within the black community. We need to do whatever we need to do to raise the rate of black women breastfeeding.
You don’t have to be stuck with a professional providing inadequate support. In the end, you are the biggest advocate for you and your child and if advocating for you both means moving on to find the assistance you need, you won’t regret doing so.
I can’t help but dream of the day when, of all the things to fight for, breastfeeding will no longer make the list. Because it will just be. Society will finally walk the talk and supporting breastfeeding will be as common place as supporting eating, sleeping, and other normal healthy lifestyle choices. Accommodations for breastfeeding moms won’t be given a second thought, it will be accepted and encouraged without discrimination.
Often there is concern that something is wrong with the milk and if their sweet offspring is anything other than the standard of a smiling, chubby, easy-going, and bright eyed Gerber baby, the milk is often the first thing blamed for a breastfed baby.
Prioritizing the mother or the baby in the breastfeeding support equation? Who is more important? If, by prioritizing the supporting the mother will the most vulnerable person in the mix, the infant, suffer? If, by prioritizing the baby could it end up backfiring if the mom doesn’t feel supported? What about other family members, do they factor in? Or are these the wrong questions? Could it be that instead of generalizations we need to embrace the breastfeeding family as a whole and how does that change the was we extend support?
The way a good breastfeeding latch is talked about sometimes makes it sound like an impossible, elusive goal that moms aim for but rarely experience. Thoughts on newborn latch, what to look for, tips to improve it if needed, and when to get professional assistance.
Welcome to The Leaky Boob, your trusted companion on the journey of nurturing and nourishing your little one. We understand that feeding your child is a unique experience for every family, filled with joys and challenges alike. Our mission is to provide you with evidence-based information, practical advice, and a supportive community to empower you in your breastfeeding journey.
Hi, I’m Jessica, the founder of The Leaky Boob, Lactation Educator, Parenting Educator, Parenting and Relationship Coach, and mom of 9. I’m so glad you are here.