Until I became the publisher for Macaroni Kid Chicago I had never heard of World Breastfeeding Week (Aug 1-7), which was created with the goal to provide support for breastfeeding moms everywhere. As a mom of two children, with whom I had very different breastfeeding journeys, one thing I know for certain is that support is something every mom needs because even though breastfeeding is a "natural" thing, doing it doesn't necessarily come naturally to everyone.
When my first child was born I was trying to balance a pumping and feeding schedule while working full-time. I have distinct memories of pumping while sitting in the only spare room, which was right next to my boss' office - I imagined him trying to have meetings while the dull, rhythmic hum of my pump filled the background. I also recall nursing our son at night, only partially awake, only to be summoned again by a seemingly ravenous child a short time later - and then the questioning and doubt would keep me awake and occupied for hours wondering "was he not getting enough?", "was he not latching on properly?" or was he simply seeking "comfort more than nourishment?" The truth is I never knew and I didn't realize that I could have reached out to a number of people - from professionals to friends - who could have helped me answer my questions and ease my concerns. The end result was a breastfeeding journey that ended around 5 months and a pumping relationship that ended about 4 months later.
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Fast forward five years and I found myself with a newborn daughter and a whole new environment, new home, new city and new support system. I was no longer working outside of the home and was ready to embrace my new role as a stay at home parent. Learning from past difficulties and concerns I was armed with a pediatrician's office that offered a lactation support group, a couple of nursing covers, a baby who loved to eat and nothing but time to figure out what would work best for us. Even though I was more experienced, more confident and had more time to figure it out, one thing is certain - I couldn't have done it without support. There is no manual for becoming a parent and no two experiences will be the same, not in the same family and certainly not in the global sense. My second child and I had a nearly 2 years long breastfeeding journey and it wasn't always easy, for either of us, but in the end, I would label it a success, just as I would my first journey, despite the apparent differences.
So, just in case there is a mom out there who is trying to sort out their own relationship with nursing a child, whether it is your first or fifth, let me tell you that you are doing a good job. Let me tell you that while breastfeeding is natural, it doesn't always come naturally and that is okay. If you have questions or concerns there are people all over Chicago who are willing and able to be part of your support system.
Here are some of the resources and professionals, beyond your hospital, who are here to help:
- Breastfeed Chicago
- Northwestern Children's Practice
- Windy City Doulas
- Lactation Partners of Chicago
- La Leche League of Illinois
Also, the right clothing and supplies can help make breastfeeding more comfortable and you can certainly find some basics at the big box stores across the city, there are some stores in Chicagoland created specifically with breastfeeding moms in mind!
- New Mother New Baby in Northbrook
- Kickin in Roscoe Village is a boutique for expectant and new mothers
- The MLM Brand has the perfect little black dress that is not only stylish and perfect for looking great post-partum, but it makes breastfeeding a breeze and can even be worn during pregnancy!
