As a new mom who is experiencing everything for the first time it often helps to hear stories about other moms going through similar challenges.
Thanks to Deb for sharing her personal breastfeeding journey with us. Read on to learn what advice she offers for overcoming your hardest days, why a support system is key and how she realized breastfeeding isn't something black and white...
1) What was your experience breastfeeding after your baby's birth? It was VERY difficult. I struggled with low supply and my baby had a poor latch. We later found out that he also had a tongue and lip tie.

4) Name 3 things (people/books/experts,etc) that have supported you/helped you continue to breastfeed to reach your goals.
1) A supportive partner. I absolutely could not have made this work without my wife. She was SO supportive and encouraging without putting any pressure on me. I had a pretty traumatic emergency c-section and she spoke up and made sure baby was put to breast as soon as possible. I was unable to hold him securely and one of my few memories in the OR is her holding him upside-down while he nursed. She was also the first person to bring me a glass of water or a snack while I was stuck under the baby!
2) My lactation consultant. Her support and guidance were truly a gift. My sweet boy is still breastfeeding at 10 months and counting; I still can't believe I can say that! She was encouraging, supportive and knowledgable. She made sure to help me reach my breastfeeding goals. I wrongly assumed a lactation consultant would shame and / or judge me for supplementing with formula but there was zero judgement.
3) An excellent pediatric dentist. Sounds strange, but it was actually a dentist that released my son's tongue and lip ties. It wasn't an instant fix but pretty quickly it made a big difference in his ability to feed.
5) Did you instantly bond with your baby? Yes! I am so grateful that I did; I know that's not the case for everyone.
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