Every new mama (and every mama of a new little one for that matter) needs a breastfeeding helpline. No matter how many babies I had (five so far, and we think we’re done), each time I brought home a sweet bundle of baby bliss, there was, for me, an adjustment period. Every baby is different, and every family changes dynamics with the addition of a sibling. As a now “veteran” nursing mama, I am always looking for ways to encourage those a few steps behind on the mommy-path, and it occurs to me others might be, too!
How can we support and encourage a new mom in every way, but especially in the way of breastfeeding her baby?
Becoming a Breastfeeding Helpline
- Offer a Meal. Of course, this is a time-honored way for women to show support of one another at times of life change. Modern technology makes scheduling (and variety!) even easier with such sites as takethemameal.com and mealtrain.com, which allow you to collaborate with others, choosing days and meals, and even considering preferences and allergies, to bring a meal to a family with a new baby at home. Take the blessing one step further and create meals that avoid known allergens or “nursing no-no’s” such as onion and dairy, which may create tummy problems for mom and baby.
- Create a “snack basket” for mom. One of the greatest blessings I received with the first baby was a mom who brought fresh strawberries, crunchy cut vegetables, peanut butter, and lemon-spiked ice water, along with hot tea when I asked, to set beside my couch or bed during the first few days at home. I always had something handy within reach for the mid-nursing “hungries.” Having fresh, fiber-filled options was a bonus.
- Entertain smaller siblings. Each of our children attended the births of their younger siblings, so we are big advocates of keeping the family together. However, sometimes mom and dad just need a few moments alone with baby, or even alone with each other while baby sleeps. Even well-trained big brothers and sisters can get wiggly if mom and dad need to rest, so it is a true gift to have a trusted friend or family member spend quality time with siblings for a little while. An even bigger gift? It’s awesome if the kiddos come home tired, not sugar-high, and ready for a bath and bedtime story.
- Be ready to share wise advice, but be ready to listen quietly instead. Every new mom has questions, but likewise, every new mom has, at some point, had her fill of unsolicited advice. If you’re a seasoned mom with personal success and accurate breastfeeding information, you just might be your friend’s best breastfeeding helpline. Be prepared to walk alongside a mama who may have questions about leaking, supplementing, scheduling, sleeping, and so on. But first and foremost, listen and wait, and be a shoulder to lean on in silence if mom just needs to vent (or even do some hormone-induced crying!).
- Refer her out. Sometimes, even the “sagest” advice isn’t what a mom needs to hear. Brush up on reputable organizations that can help a mom in need of medical advice, lactation consultation, or even postpartum treatment. Check with your local La Leche League, birthing center, or counseling center for those who specialize in working with new parents. For non-medical advice, sites like The Breastfeeding Place can offer great sources of information, but the advice of a competent, pro-breastfeeding medical professional is always the best line of defense in keeping new moms and their babies healthy and safe.
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