"Support with Breastfeeding"

I had my gorgeous baby girl at East Surrey Hospital following an induction as I was Term + 12. Unfortunately I needed a ceasarian at Term + 16.

I received immediate breastfeeding support from my midwife and was visited by one of the breastfeeding counsellors, Alexis (Lexi). Initially I felt relaxed and was encouraged and motivated by Lexi who ensured my latch was good and my baby was feeding well. Lexi also gave me confidence by encouraging me to hand express to show I was producing colostrum.

My intention was to solely to breastfeed, however, after the second night following birth, my baby cried all night and as I continued to try and feed. My husband and I knew something was wrong. Lexi came to see us and discussed my background and medical history. She listened and identified that I might have a condition, which meant I might not produce any or enough milk. As there is no test for this, Lexi offered to weigh my baby to see if she had lost weight. Sadly she had already lost more than 10% in 3 days.

I was devastated and felt guilty. Lexi continued to provide encouragement and support by discussing formula, making me a feeding device so I could continue to try to breastfeed whilst formula feeding at the same time, and she was there when I gave my baby a bottle, encouraging me to hold her close to continue our bonding process. She also provided a much needed hug.

As Lexi quickly picked up on my delayed milk production, my baby received the care and attention she needed to thrive. I am pleased to say that I did eventually produce milk but continued to combination feed as I wanted to ensure my baby was getting enough. My baby is thriving and has continued to put weight on well : )

Lexi and her team do a great job for something so natural but actually quite tough and definitely emotional.

I also received amazing support from all the midwives I had contact with and the Maternity Support Workers (Shirley Cooper & Gillian Caffyn), who also supported me with latching and expressing.

Thanks to all!