When Breastfeeding Doesn't Come Naturally

It's World Breastfeeding Week! 

You've probably seen tons of breastfeeding moms posting photos proudly feeding their babies in honor of world breastfeeding week. 

But what happens when breastfeeding isn't quite what you expected?

Not every mother or baby takes to breastfeeding instantly. Many require a little more assistance to learn the breastfeeding basics. 

Breastfeeding your new baby can be a relaxing, bonding experience. Struggles are normal and you shouldn't be intimidated or embarrassed to seek some support. 

If you're having some technical difficulties breastfeeding, there are a bunch of local resources to guide you in the right direction. The best way to feel more confident breastfeeding is to develop a strong support system to answer all your questions. 

Your Postpartum Doula is an amazing resource for breastfeeding mothers. We can help encourage you to feel confident about breastfeeding, and set you up with a personalized routine.

Support from Lactation Consultants

Postpartum Doulas offer breastfeeding support in the comfort of your own home, keeping you relaxed to minimize discomfort. If you are experiencing pain or other challenges beyond the realm of normal, your postpartum doula can help connect you to more advanced breastfeeding support.

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is a health professional with vast knowledge and clinical training and experience in breastfeeding. Think of her as your PhD of breastfeeding. She can help with physical discomforts of breastfeeding and complications as well as information on proper latching and pumping. 

Kimberly Rush, IBCLC offers home visits in the Asheville area if you are looking for breastfeeding assistance without leaving the house. Kimberly is now also offering breastfeeding consultations for patients of Laurel OBGYN as well as classes and group support for anyone.

Clinic and Workshop Education and Support

Attending workshops and clinics is a great way to learn more about how to properly breastfeed your baby and recommendations for women at any stage of the journey. The MAHEC Breastfeeding Clinic assists all women in the Western North Carolina area with painful breastfeeding symptoms or discomfort. 

The Mission Breastfeeding Center and Boutique offers a Breastfeeding Basics class that will teach you and your partner everything you'll need to know about breastfeeding. These experts walk you through all the basics and will help you gather all the supplies you need to breastfeed safely. 

Don't be nervous to breastfeed your newborn or to seek out some help.

Doulas of Asheville prides ourselves in bringing moms and babies closer together, giving families all the necessary information for newborn care. We guide you to breastfeeding properly by giving you and your family the best resources that we have to offer.

Christine Robinson

Doulas of Asheville is western North Carolina's premier doula agency, providing birth doulas, postpartum doulas, and placenta specialists to Asheville families. We are proud to support any and all birthing choices, parenting styles. Our postpartum doulas are available to support families with new babies around the clock, from a few daytime shifts, to overnight newborn care, to 24-hour live-in support.