In this episode, we're going to talk about breastfeeding.

I would love to hear your thoughts on your breastfeeding journey.

How did you find breastfeeding? 

Was it successful for you?

Or did you feel like it was really tough in the beginning, but eventually, you got there? I was inspired to talk about breastfeeding in my podcast today regarding an article that I read by a journalist who worked for The Guardian. Her honesty about breastfeeding her baby as a first-time mom was refreshing. Sadly, we both agree that if we wish to encourage more women to breastfeed their babies, we have to stop sugarcoating it and be honest about how difficult it can be in those early weeks. Instead of dressing it up and giving women false impressions, we should be transparent about the challenges. 

In the UK, we have one of the lowest breastfeeding statistics in the world. We all understand the benefits of breastfeeding your baby. However, when we read that only 43% of mothers will still be breastfeeding by the time their babies reach eight weeks, and only 1% of babies are exclusively breastfed for six months as recommended by the World Health Organization, the writing is on the wall. Pregnant women, especially first-time moms, deserve to know that breastfeeding can be challenging both physically and mentally. But the good news is that there is lots of support available to you and your baby on your journey. Honesty also avoids women feeling like they failed as a mother, which can often lead to other issues such as low self-esteem and postnatal depression.

I'm not for one minute suggesting that this is the case for everyone. There are many women who successfully breastfeed their babies and love it, which is wonderful. Over the years, I've had many clients who have really, really loved their journey, and breastfeeding has been a complete success. But my concern is for the women who really want to breastfeed, but for whatever reason, find it difficult or in some cases impossible. We, as healthcare professionals, need to offer continued support and guidance, but above all, acceptance. If you choose not to breastfeed your baby, that's fine. You have to do what works for you and your baby. Vickie

The Baby Academy

Remote support for Parents Around The World