Not knowing anyone who breastfed their baby, or never having seen another woman breastfeed her baby, I had no frame of reference , no role models in the breastfeeding arena.  There was 1 book on the library shelf and it was The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, written by a group of woman from La Leche League.  I did not get this book until after my daughter was born.  So, the breastfeeding class was the only place I received information on preparing for breastfeeding and what to expect when my baby was born.  There were many days and nights that were filled with painful breastfeeding and major sleep deprivation.  I learned a lot along the way.  Humor was helpful. My baby getting bigger was helpful. It took us a while, but soon breastfeeding became enjoyable and easy.  Through my experience I learned to work hard to not judge another mother for the choices she makes.  We are all doing the best we can. I choose to focus on education and support.

Come along with us on Tressa’s breastfeeding Journey. She shares with us personal stories of the early days of breastfeeding her first baby, breastfeeding during a pregnancy, what life was like tandem nursing, night weaning her toddler and child – led weaning with both her girls.  Tressa really gives us a window into her early mothering days and humbles us as she shares her personal story of going through postpartum depression and how she helped herself get through it.

As a lactation consultant, I have long since recognized the lack of information mothers have about breastfeeding. Not only about early breastfeeding difficulties, but also how this impacts their postpartum lifestyle. Breastfeeding comes fairly easy for some mothers and I want them to know that it may not come easy for your sister or best friend. I want you to know that you can be of great help to them.  You can provide emotional support, practical help and suggest they seek professional help.  For some mothers, early breastfeeding is more challenging than they thought it would be. It is very emotional and exhausting for some mothers.  When this happens, we tend to become very overwhelmed, isolate ourselves and some mothers become depressed.