Mothers are not failing. Our medical system is failing mothers.

How do we expect moms to successfully breastfeed when many of our doctors, including OBGYNs, Pediatricians, and Family Medicine physicians are not required to take anything more than the minimum education on breastfeeding (usually 1-3 hours course)?

The breast is a very complicated organ, yet in medical school it is mostly discussed in terms of cancer, not it’s intended biological function. How does that make any sense? There is an important body organ that feeds our young and yet doctors that work closely with breastfeeding dyads, don’t need to know anything about it. Formula companies step in daily bringing doctors food and teaching them all about infant feeding.

Breastfeeding often does not go as expected.

Why does a doctor need to know about breastfeeding when there are lactation consultants?

Physicians need to know the normal function of the breast, so they are able to know when to properly refer to a specialist. I hear way too often that when breastfeeding isn’t going well, many pediatricians are not referring to a lactation consultant, instead they advise women to use formula.

What is an IBCLC?

Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are the experts in breastfeeding. However, most parents don’t know that there are many different “pathways” to becoming and IBCLC and there is no “standard” lactation education. Therefore, some IBCLCs have excellent training and some lack skills and proper education. The minimum training that is needed to take the IBCLC exam is usually not enough to really be of help to parents.

For many, becoming an IBCLC can be challenging from a logistics standpoint. You are required to find a mentor and until very recently, learn from them in person for free, or for a nominal fee, but never paid. This puts the credential out of reach for many interested in becoming board certified lactation consultants, especially to people of color that might not have anyone in their area by which to be mentored or people that may not afford to work for free. As a result, access to an IBCLC becomes very difficult for those that need it most.

IBCLC with oral motor education assessing an infant’s suck.

Barriers that some parents might face when hiring an IBCLC

Difficulty accessing bilingual professionals: In my state of Colorado Latinos make up more than 20% of the state, however, there is only one IBCLC that speaks Spanish. Therefore, these moms are not getting the same level of care as their English-speaking counterparts.

High out-of-pocket costs: Another barrier is that a lactation visit also usually costs between $150-$200 and most often, it doesn’t just take one visit. This financial aspect can mean the end of breastfeeding for many families.

Contradicting points-of-view: In some occasions, IBCLCs find themselves defending they’re practices when doctors go against their professional recommendation. An IBCLC will give one piece of advice, but when the parent tells their doctor that advice, the doctor contradicts it. Therefore, many parents are left not knowing what to do at all.

Lack of evidence-based information: More formal research is needed regarding breastfeeding and all of its benefits. As of now, a lot of information found is based on “experience” vs “evidence”.  

With all of these challenges, it is no wonder many mothers do not breastfeed as long as they would like. Until these barriers are diminished, women need to use their sadness and anger felt and direct it where it belongs: on our health care system that at times fails to care of our most precious commodity; mothers and babies.

Moms do not fail to breastfeed, but many of them are failed every single day.

Have you ever hired an IBCLC? What has been your experience working with physicians and specialists regarding breastfeeding? 

The post No, you did not fail to breastfeed appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Mi decisión era tan sólida que durante mi embarazo no contemplé otra opción para alimentar a mi bebé. No investigué sobre las diferentes formulas que existen, ni cuál sería apta o no. Pienso que mi decisión se debió a las influencias culturales que sin querer se convierten en “norma”. Crecí viendo a mis tias y primas amamantar a sus pequeños así que yo no tendría porqué ser la excepción. Me lo propuse y ejercí toda esa presión sobre mi misma sin saber que tan difícil sería…

“Amamantar es alimentar a tu hijo con el elixir de la vida”

Natalia amamantando a su pequeño Theo, venciendo sus desafíos y logrando una lactancia exitosa.

En mis últimos meses de gestación consulté con una consejera de lactancia, ella solo me reiteró lo que yo ya sabía; “ la lactancia es natural!, tu cuerpo sabrá que hacer, todas las mujeres pueden”… etc. Un pequeño detalle se escapó y considero uno muy importante: todas las mujeres somos diferentes, que pasa si la producción baja? Qué hago para incrementarla nuevamente?! En ese momento no cruzó por mi mente, pues estaba segura que no tendría problema con la producción.

Lamentablemente tuve complicaciones en el postparto. Dislocación de pelvis y dolor crónico en el coxis debido a un desgarre interno durante el parto. Esto fue algo imprevisto y me afectó emocionalmente ya que me veía limitada para cuidar de mi bebé. El dolor era tan extremo que no podía sentarme, y caminaba solo con asistencia.

Amamanté a Theo acostada los primeros dos meses, pero con el pasar de los días empecé a notar una reducción en la producción de leche. Aun así continué amamantando pero lo hacía con más frecuencia, según la consejera: “la estimulación incrementa la producción”. Entonces colocaba a Theo en el pecho cada dos horas sin falla; de día y de noche. Dormía poco pero cada dos horas me levantaba llena de fuerza y empeñada en NO DEJAR de amamantarlo. No quería sentirme derrotada.

Los desafíos se presentan inoportunamente

El desgarre interno no sanó como debía y el dolor solo empeoraba por lo que tuve que ir de urgencias al hospital. Lo que menos esperaba: una infección causó un absceso y tenían que retirarlo quirúrgicamente. Afortunadamente fue un procedimiento ambulatorio pero Theo tuvo que tomar fórmula durante mi ausencia. No podría explicar por escrito que tan difícil fue esta situación para mí. Demasiado abrumante! Me sentía culpable, y negligente por no poder alimentar a mi bebé.

Por suerte mis abuelos paternos viajaron desde Colombia para conocer a Theo, y aprovechando su estadía le comenté la situación a mi abuela. Ella sugirió que la reducción de leche se debía al estrés por mi condición y mi dolor, y que debia tomar té de una hierba llamada “hinojo”. Según ella era la solución para volver a producir leche y en mayor cantidad! Por supuesto que le pedí a mi esposo de inmediato ir al supermercado por la hierba, y comencé a tomar el té tres veces al día. Después de unas semanas de amamantar cada dos horas y de consumir el té note el incremento.

Empecé a producir más leche y continue amamantándo exclusivamente hasta el dia de hoy! Mi bebé tiene 12 meses y me enorgullece poder amamantarlo. Sé que no es algo posible para todas las mamás pero considero que estos métodos de medicina alternativa pueden ser útiles para aquellas que anhelan amamantar tanto como yo.

Durante tu trayectoria con la lactancia materna, cuál ha sido tu desafío más grande? Déjanos un comentario y no olvides chequear nuestra redes sociales en Instagram y Facebook para más datos sobre maternidad! 

The post El arte de Amamantar: natural, mágico y a la vez desafiante appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Vulnerable babies born prematurely or with medical conditions, are born with a challenging start to their lives. Some parents have time to prepare for this with a diagnosis in utero. However, for other parents it becomes a total surprise when one’s baby is quickly whipped away at birth for lifesaving care and treatment. No matter how or what the circumstances are, any NICU mother will face difficulties.

Feeding a NICU baby may be one of the biggest challenges.

Breastfeeding, formula feeding and nasogastric feeding. All of these present their own set of challenges that a NICU mum and her baby have to face.

The road to breastfeeding your baby in the NICU can be a slow and gradual progression. It can be weeks or even months until a baby is ready to independently and exclusively breastfeed. When the time arrives, this moment becomes an exciting and memorable milestone. Some of the limitations a mother faces begins with the access to her own baby. This access can be limited since the newborn may be in an incubator, under photo therapy lights or attached to many machines and tubes. Skin to skin bonding  (which stimulates oxytocins, milk production, and a good latch) may be minimal or even non existent.

Often times, a mother is forced to find other means for bonding and breastmilk production. These may come in the form of expressing breastmilk, looking at photos and hand holding their baby.

Formula feeding a baby in the NICU may be out of a mother’s control.

Little Hannah’s first breastfeeding session at 1 month of age

A newborn baby needs calculated nutrition right at birth and in the days or weeks following. A mother may struggle with not producing enough breastmilk to sustain her baby. Formula feeding then becomes the right choice for them at the time. There can be some benefits with formula feeding a baby in the NICU.

The time and stress with breastmilk production, expressing and/or latching dissapear. This time is often replaced with bonding and recovering. If feedings are hourly or second hourly some can be attended by a partner or nursing/midwife staff. However, formula feeding can also come with some challenges, especially to a mother who was desperate to breastfeed.

Another very common means for nutrition in the NICU is nasogastric feeding. For any newborn baby, feeding are energy consuming since they must happen around the clock. Precious little ones in the NICU need all the energy they can get to fight for their health and sometimes their life.

Some babies, especially premature babies, have trouble with sucking and swallowing; this can impact on their nutrition intake and therefor their growth and wellbeing. As mentioned above, nasogastric tube feeding is a common source of feeding in the NICU, the good thing about it is that it can be done during a baby’s sleep without disturbing them to complete the feeding. Nasogastric feeding saves them energy and gets the job done. Another positive is that a mother is able to cuddle and hold her baby and even latch him/her to the breast all whilst having a nasogastric feeding. This experience for both mother and baby holds so much value on their wellbeing and recovery.

For many NICU mums, figuring out how to feed your baby and give them the best start in life, raises many questions and anxiety.

A baby requires nutrition, growth as well as around the clock, timed and measured feedings. The decisions and anxiety regarding how to best feed a baby are some worries that a mum of a full term healthy baby may not experience to the fullest. For mums, feeding is a synonym of bonding and cuddling. It’s a desire and a goal.

All mums experience the same body and breast changes after birth. Facilitating a NICU mum to have the same opportunities as any other mum is important for the baby’s and her wellbeing. Keep in mind that a mother’s mental health can be affected due to her feeling like she has failed her baby in some way.

Remember that no matter what feeding option you choose, you are doing what is best for your baby at the time given the circumstances. Don’t be hard on yourself.

What was your personal experience with feeding your baby while at the NICU?

The post Challenges NICU mothers face when feeding their baby appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

The first two weeks of breastfeeding are definitely the hardest. You  are learning how to take care of a new baby, how to take care of  yourself and recover from birth, and learning how this all changes  your family dynamic. While I am not an expert, and I am not a  lactation consultant, I have successfully nursed 3 children within the  past 5 years. I am not claiming to know everything and I do not want  you to take my advice over a pediatrician or lactation consultant.   Continue reading for how to survive the first two weeks of  breastfeeding.

“Just make it past the first 2 weeks of breastfeeding.” I heard that  over and over during my first pregnancy in 2014. I would then ask  myself, what do they mean the first two weeks? Isn’t it suppose to be  natural and easy? I told myself my body would know what to do.  However, it wasn’t quite that simple. Every breastfeeding journey is  different. My second wasn’t the same as my first, and neither were the  same as my friends.

Breastfeeding has a way of making a woman feel empowered and capable.  It is miraculous. But it can also be exhausting and hard. It can lead  to beautiful moments and WTF moments. It is learning journey that you  and your baby are on together.

The 9 obstacles to overcome the first 14 days of breastfeeding.

1. Learn how to breastfeed.

What positions your baby likes, what  positions you like, what are your babies feeding cues, and what are  their feeding rhythms. Getting a deep latch can be difficult but making a “boob sandwich” can help. Do this by taking your hand in a C shape around your nipple. Touch your nipple to your baby’s upper  lip/nose to get the baby to open wide and shove as much of your boob in.  Each baby will be different. Learn to trust your instincts and do what  works for you and your baby.

2. Get your mind right.

For me that meant I had to know that  everything wasn’t going to go the way I planned, and I needed to be  okay with that. Follow your baby’s lead. If baby acts hungry feed  him/her. There is no such thing as overfeeding a baby in the beginning.

3. The after-pains.

During breastfeeding after having a baby, you will experience minor contractions in your uterus (while uncomfortable at times, it is not nearly what your contractions during childbirth felt like. I promise). When you breastfeed, your body releases oxytocin. This is the same hormone that causes your uterus to  contract. This will continue until your uterus is contracted back down to pre-pregnacy size.

4. Day/Night schedule.

Babies usually have their nights and days mixed up in the beginning. In the womb you were up and active all  day, giving baby the perfect rocking motion to sleep away. At night  your baby became more active when you were resting on the couch after a long day. Their brains stay in this pattern after birth. You can  help your baby with this process by being in sunlight during the day and keeping things quiet and dark at night.

Making a “Boob sandwich” to help with getting a deep latch for Breastfeeding. First Baby-April 2015

5. Day 2/3.

Whew, this one is BIG. Your hormones are all out of wack,  you are trying to learn how to take care of a new human, you might be  in pain, and you just want to sleep. This is the stage when you might cry (I did!) and maybe even question if you know how to be a mother.  The thing is–you don’t and you don’t have to. Being a mother,  breastfeeding, parenting; all of it is a learning curve. Its  continuing education. (If you are feeling down, its OKAY. Ask for  help. Postpartum blues can turn into postpartum depression/anxiety. It  is real and it is OKAY and NECESSARY to ask for help).

Determined to breastfeed? Check out 5 Essential Breastfeeding Tips here.

6. Milk milk milk.

When your milk comes in (it is different for each  person, but usually between days 2-5) your breast swell and they hurt.  They are full. Your body doesn’t know how much milk your baby will  need so it over produces during this time. It often becomes difficult  for your baby to latch because of the swelling. You can express a little to soften your breast enough for the baby to latch. The most  important thing for you to do during this time is keep the milk moving. You can do that by breastfeeding, hand expressing, or pumping.  If your breast do not feel soft after nursing your baby, hand  express/or pump. It is important to get your breast soft (not  necessary to be empty) to hopefully avoid engorgement and mastitis.

7. Nipple soreness is real.

Nipple soreness is normal, but there is a  difference in nipple soreness pain and nipple pain that continues.  Your nipples are being pulled, sucked and stretched in ways they never  have been. It is normal to feel a slight discomfort at the beginning  of a feed, but it shouldn’t last longer than 30sec and the rest of the  feed should be comfortable. Any pain that makes you want to cry out, pain that lasts an entire feed, broken skin, or pain that  happens in between feeds is not normal, but can be fixed. You do not  have to suffer through it.

8. Stressing over if your baby is getting enough.

This is a HUGE worry of most moms (myself included). It is distressing to not know how much  your baby is taking in. A baby’s belly is the size of a marble when  they are born, so it doesn’t take much to fill them up in the  beginning. In the beginning, before your milk comes in, you will  produce colostrum (or should I say you will produce MAGIC?!) It is  highly concentrated in nutrients for your baby. A few ways to tell if  your baby is getting enough milk are: you can see your baby  swallowing, weight gain (after the first few days–you will see a  loss), and wet diapers (what goes in, must come out :)) Using a log  can help you keep up with how long you are breastfeeding and what your  baby is peeing/pooping out.

9. The first growth spurt.

Around the 10-14 day period you and your  baby may be in a good routine, but wait- your baby is about to go  through their first growth spurt. You will question everything you have learned about breastfeeding. You will question your milk supply.  Your baby will want to be at the breast ALL. THE. TIME. This is  normal. I repeat, this is normal. This is your baby’s way of telling  your body to up the milk production. Keep putting baby to breast as  much as possible. This will pass. 1.

If you have made it past the first two weeks, you have overcome so  many obstacles. You are AMAZING. If you are still struggling, please  reach out to someone. It is never too late, or too early, to ask for  help.

The First 2 Weeks Of Breastfeeding For Me

Vincent- First Child

The first two weeks with my first child were pretty difficult. He  didn’t want to suck, he wouldn’t wake to feed, he fell asleep nursing,  he lost weight…..IT WAS A STRUGGLE.

We went to the lactation consultant 4 times within those first two weeks. I cried. I was mad. I  was tired. BUT I kept pushing through. I woke up every 2 hours around  the clock for the first two weeks. Did you know that the time you  start breastfeeding is when you start your 2-hour timer? I didn’t!  

Example- we started feeding at 9am- he wouldn’t/couldn’t suck and  would fall back asleep so it was 10am before he was done feeding in  the beginning. I had 1 hour to catch up on sleep, or shower, or eat  and then it was back to the same routine again. It was HARD. We went  on to successfully breastfeed for 15 months.

Alexia- Second Child

My second child was ALWAYS waking up hungry but she was a huge spitter and my nipples HURT. The first thing we figured out was that she was  tongue tied. She wasn’t getting a good latch due to the decreased range of motion of her tongue.

Therefore my nipples were destroyed and  she wasn’t transferring well. (For my nipples I used all purpose nipple ointment and soothe pads). After getting her tongue tie fixed,  she was still a HUGE spitter. I am talking at the very least 1-2 oz of  milk came back up.

My pediatrician didn’t believe me when I would tell  her that she would spit it over half of her milk so she sent us to the lactation consultant where we did a weighted feed. Sure enough she spit up and we weighed again. She had lost over half of what she took  in. We tried reflux medication, cutting the top 8 allergens out of my  diet, seeing a GI specialist and even a swallow study (a few months  later).

I was so incredibly worried the first few weeks of her life. I  had milk, she was getting it, but she couldn’t keep it down. We went  on to successfully breastfeed for 13 months.

Callum-Third Child

My third baby, has been the easiest as far as breastfeeding. Not  because this is my third time around, but because he could suck and he kept the milk down. However, my milk didn’t come in until day 6! He would nurse and nurse and nurse every hour it felt like. He was actually gaining weight, but the doctor kept asking me if my milk had come in.

I hadn’t gotten that engorgement feeling yet, and by day 5 I  had started to worry. Finally it came in and all was well. He  preferred the cradle hold on the left, so getting him to nurse on the  right side we had to work at but we did it. We are still breastfeeding  at 7 months now <3.

I know I am lucky with all three of my breastfeeding journeys compared  to some, but I am so proud of us. I am proud of the mama who tried but it just didn’t work. I am proud of the mama who is taking it day by  day. I am proud of the mama who has been breastfeeding for 19 months.  I am proud of the mama pumping around the clock because latching just isn’t working out. I am proud of YOU.

Were the first two weeks hard for you? What helped you get through them? Let me know in comments!

The post Breastfeeding: What to expect and how to survive the first two weeks appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Nowadays some parents may find that coming up with fun ideas to keep your kids entertained can be quite challenging. With tablets, phones and other electronics around it can be really difficult to spark creativity on some children. Can you relate?

As some of you may know, I happen to be a big Harry Potter fan. When I found out I was pregnant I started to put together some ideas for a #Potterhead theme session for my baby girl. It only took us 5 years to get it done but guess what?! We did it and it came out perfect!

Mischief Managed – Our very first Mommy and Me Costumes

We had recently returned from our very first Salem trip and boy we had fun. Having been able to visit this well known historical site right before Halloween helped spike her desire to dress up as a cute little witch. We had just started reading the Philosopher’s Stone so it was just the perfect timing. 

I still remember her excitement when we unwrapped our somewhat matching mommy and me costumes. Little miss D was so happy to know that her mommy would also be wearing the same Harry Potter cloak. After a good ol’ Harry Potter marathon to gather a storyline idea, we were ready to go.

Although Halloween is not a part of my culture, I decided that it’s a great Holiday to be creative together. We both enjoy getting our makeup done and coming up with some amazing photos that we will cherish forever.

Creating magical images through my photography is one of my favorite things to do, therefore, we both have a lot of fun working on these together.

Little miss D happened to have been working on her Felix Felices potion when all of a sudden, a death eater appeared ready to take it all away. She needed to protect her coveted potion! Armed with all the spells she had learned in her first year at Hogwarts she was able to guard her cauldron.

Our newfound tradition continues

This year was no different! The moment that all the Halloween decorations started to appear in the stores, (I’ve got to admit, a bit too early for my liking!). We were all over them.

Originally, we thought of dressing up as the Power Rangers, because, why not? However, after some thoughtful consideration we wanted a mommy and me costume that would allow us to enjoy and enhance the beautiful fall scenery on the island.  

She had heard a children’s song that I’m sure many of you have heard as well…

“Scarecrow, scarecrow turn around;

Scarecrow, scarecrow touch the ground.

Scarecrow, scarecrow reach up high;

Scarecrow, scarecrow bend down low,

Scarecrow, scarecrow touch your toes.”

With that song in mind we began our search for our perfect mommy and me costumes and I got to say, she picked them right! After a quick Pinterest search for some scarecrow makeup ideas we were ready to go!

We were very lucky to have had three loved ones that helped us pull this 2019 Halloween session together, Shelyn, Ianna & Martin. Thank you!

The process of picking out a theme, choosing our mommy and me costumes and creating the images together has been a great way to push both our creativities to the next level. We shall see what next year brings. In the meantime, we will see you in town trick-or-treating!

If you have never tried doing something like this for Halloween then I surely recommend taking the time and letting your imagination flow! I can promise you and you and your little ones will have so much fun together. 

What is your favorite Halloween movie that you and your family like? Have you guys every mommy and me costumes?

Don’t forget to start sharing your Halloween pictures with us on Instagram using our Hashtag #BreastfeedingWorld for a chance to be featured in our Halloween special!

We are really happy to announce that this coming weekend we will be doing an IG Giveaway! Head over and make sure you follow us, you can win some amazing prizes! Stay tuned.

The post Mommy and Me Costumes – A fun way to enjoy Halloween appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

For months, I’ve been mulling the idea of documenting one of the most empowering moments in a mother’s life. Her child’s birth!

Taking back my creative outlet…

When I moved back to live on Martha’s Vineyard, I had to find a way to make ends meet. I was lucky enough to have found a full time job in a place that I absolutely love. For the past three years, my main focus has been to grow in my professional career while keeping up with motherhood.

This new found lifestyle meant that as much as I wanted to continue on with Breastfeeding World, as dedicated as I was before, it was practically impossible. After our most recent Big Latch On event in Times Square this past August 4th, I realized that something needed to change… Me.

Breastfeeding World has allowed me to get to know many many families. Since its conception back in 2013 I’ve been able to photograph over 150 mothers/families from different countries, ethnicities and beliefs. The best part of it all is that I’ve been able to learn about their parenthood journeys.

You know that feeling of pure accomplishment, wonder, passion, pride and happiness? That is what photography has meant to me since the day I grabbed my first camera. For the past three years my photography business has been somewhat dormant, just “a hobby for when I had time”. That phase has now come to an end.

Join us in our new and exciting endeavor our Martha’s Vineyard Birth Story Model Calls

My desire to continue documenting your family’s milestones with creativity, care and love has taken over. It’s time to take back your birthing experience and we can document every part of it together!

I’ve decided to host a Martha’s Vineyard Birth Story Model Call. I’d like to offer island families a chance to document this special loving day. These photo sessions are discounted to allow Breastfeeding World to introduce its photography services on the island.

Standby Martha’s Vineyard Birth Story Model Call

Birth photography is story telling of the moments that lead up to your baby’s arrival and afterwards.  The moment when you summoned up the strength to keep going after you believed you had reached your limit.  The moment when your partner expressed love, care and appreciation for what you were enduring to deliver your baby. The moments when your support team stepped in.  And finally, the moment when your baby first arrived into the world. The expression on your face and on your partner’s face when you first laid eyes on your newest family member!

Standby birth photography means that I’m not on-call.  This means that although I will not clear my calendar as I would if I was “on-call” (where I would have no other events scheduled from week 38-42 of your pregnancy) I will have my phone on me and available to you within reason based of my previous commitments.

There is no commitment for you to sign a contract or pay the full session fee until you call to tell me that you are in labor and I arrive. You will receive copy of all the documents to be signed prior to your due date so you can read through it ahead of time.

You will notify me when you’re headed to the hospital or when you contact your mid-wife. If there are no major impediments I will be there within minutes to capture your labor and delivery.

The Standby Martha’s Vineyard Birth Story Model Call includes: 

• Planning consultations on the phone, via e-mail or in person to discuss your birth plan.
• I’ll be there for you and your family starting with your active labor up to 1.5 hrs after your delivery.
• A custom gallery that includes 40-80 edited digital images in B&W and/or color that you can download directly to your computer.
• Print release so you at print at your convenience.

The regular cost of our basic birth photography sessions begins at $1500 and I’m offering it for only $500. Because this is a model call, I’ve significantly reduced the cost by 65%+ savings!

A $150 booking fee is required to confirm your participation in the model call, the remaining amount will be accepted once we meet for your birth coverage to being.  APPLY NOW

Fresh 48 Sessions & Lifestyle Model Call

My favorite moments to capture are those full of strength, love, excitement, and raw emotion. I love capturing the sparkle in your eyes as you hold your baby close, the way your partner’s hands become gigantic with your small baby inside them. The first few weeks of a baby’s life are incredible and I want you to be able to remember those moments forever too.

The Fresh 48 Model Call includes:

• Planning consultations on the phone, via email or in person.
• A loose on-call schedule to capture you and your new family within 48 hours of birth.
• A 1 hour session at the place of birth to document your baby, you and your partner, your new family members meeting your new baby for the first time.
• A custom gallery that includes 10 edited photos that you can share and use for your birth announcements.

The Lifestyle Family Model Call Session includes:

• Planning consultations on the phone, via email or in person.
• An at home comfortable 1 hour session to document your family with your new addition. This includes time for feedings, we go at your own pace. These sessions would take place up to 15 days after your baby is born.
• A custom gallery that includes 10 edited photos that you can share and use.

The regular cost of our Fresh 48 & Lifestyle Family Sessions start at $450 but for the purpose of this model call I’m offering it for only $200. APPLY NOW

A signed contract and model release are required for any of these sessions. Images taken may be used in promotional material for our website and social media platforms. 

Want to know more about Breastfeeding World? How it all began? Make sure you follow our Instagram to see our work and like our Facebook Page to be up to date on everything Motherhood related!

The post A new endeavor: Birth Story Model Calls on Martha’s Vineyard appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Our 5th annual Big Latch On in Times Square took place this past Saturday August 3rd during World Breastfeeding Week. It was probably one of the most amazing ones I've ever had. 

About five years ago, the concept of showcasing how natural and beautiful breastfeeding is started. For a few weeks I went on and on, thinking how I could achieve this while still being able to share the different experiences that mothers had. That is when the Breastfeeding World photo project took place.

For approximately 2 months, I dedicated myself to capturing beautiful breastfeeding portraits. I had the opportunity of meeting over 60 New York City mothers who participated in the first photo call. We went to different iconic locations throughout New York City and photographed these beautiful women, nursing their little ones in public. It was epic!

Breastfeeding World was quickly becoming a resource of inspiration and support for our local moms. Yet, there was still so much to be done. In the beginning of July of 2015 one of our photo session participants and beloved friend, Lisa Maloney, had a crazy idea: “Let’s hold a Breastfeeding World Big Latch On in Times Square”, she said.

Sharing the Breastfeeding Love one event at a time

Breastfeeding World's first Big Latch On in Times Square. August 2015

With a month to prepare and a whole lot of sleepless nights, I was leading the Breastfeeding World’s team. We planned and executed one of the most iconic Big Latch On events that have ever happened: 69 nursing mothers came together in Times Square to breastfeed their little ones in support.

This was the beginning of five full years of annual breastfeeding events. We took our celebrations from NYC to several other states, including two countries: Guam and Ecuador.

Our Breastfeeding Celebrations have gathered strong women who have gotten the opportunity to meet like-minded families, and support each other’s journeys. Strong friendships have developed. But most importantly, a sense of empowerment has surrounded each and every one of our events.

Back in 2016, I had to relocate to Massachusetts. Although organizing these events seemed impossible, we pulled it off each and every year. Thanks to our Breastfeeding World Volunteers our events took form and place. Our focus has always remained the same: to bring our mothering community together. Supporting and encouraging each other in our breastfeeding journeys has been one of our main goals. 

Breastfeeding World – a community of love

These past two years have been a real challenge for Breastfeeding World. As the leader, I have encountered a few personal “blocks” along the way. Making it difficult to keep up.

In 2017 a professional development opportunity arose, and I took it. I was promoted to department supervisor in the local hospital I work at. To say that juggling motherhood, school activities, being a full-time working mom, managing Breastfeeding World and the overall ups and downs of life has been difficult, is a BIG understatement!

In 2018, Breastfeeding World underwent a few transitions: a shift in its volunteer team, a website re-design as well as the expansion of our events to Guam & Ecuador. It was not easy, but we did it.

Then this year came…

As much as I love Breastfeeding World and all that it stands for, I was overwhelmed with having to juggle all of the responsibilities I already had. I made up my mind that there was no way our annual breastfeeding celebration would happen this year. It was not until my dear friend Lisa Maloney, and my fellow BFW co-founders, brother Christian and mother Bella Garcia called me that I started re-thinking it. 

Lisa reminded me that we are all humans, as mothers we can only do so much. She also reminded me of all the beautiful reasons why Breastfeeding World has significantly grown. As well as all the help and support it has provided to so many around the world. Instead of judging me for feeling overwhelmed and somewhat powerless, she embraced me with encouragement.

"Your eyes gleam with excitement when you talk about the BFW events," said another friend of mine.

After this small intervention of love and deep understanding, I came to the realization that our Breastfeeding World celebrations needed to happen. Not because of me, but because of the lives that it would impact. Even my sweet baby girl (who’s not a baby anymore) said: “Mami, I can’t wait to work in our BFW event”.

Just like five years ago: with a little over a month to go, I started promoting the event. With non payed 2019 sponsors, very limited financial resources, but a whole lot of willingness and love, my family and I traveled from Massachusetts to NYC for our…

 5^th Annual Big Latch On in Times Square

Breastfeeding World's 5th annual Big Latch On in Times Square. - ©Alegares Photography

To some, this year’s event might’ve been way smaller and a whole lot different from previous years. For me, this year’s event was one of the most powerful ones yet. Despite the challenges faced, I was once again able to touch the lives of the amazing NYC mothers that attended our 5th annual Big Latch On in Times Square.

This event was intimate. It was beautiful, and extremely empowering. Our 5th annual Big Latch On in Times Square was a true demonstration of love and commitment. It reminded me that Breastfeeding World is a community of love and real appreciation for one another.

I was excited seeing some old faces that have grown with us. But it was also very fun getting to know new mommies and daddies who were thrilled to be a part of something so big, yet small at the same time. Babies as little as 10 days old came to celebrate with us this unique event. It was so refreshing seeing 2 & 3 year old nurslings who were more than happy to be having their "milkies, tities, tatas". 

Breastfeeding World's 5th annual Big Latch On in Times Square. - ©Alegares Photography

An event to remember, an event to cherish

"Meeting in Times Square to breastfeed with all the other moms that traveled from near and far, was such an inspiring event. We all had separate challenges but we pushed through them making it to that moment on the TKTS stairs to nourish our little ones. Getting the opportunity to nurse together made me a little emotional as I connected with other moms and we discussed our experiences. I left feeling empowered, understood and supported.” – Susie Davies Concelmo, 2019 NYC BLO participant.

 

"It was a beautiful gathering! To see so many women immediately able to strike up conversations, to have so many content babies and children all gathered together is a statement to how natural and nurturing the breastfeeding journey is.” – Cassandra Addams, 2019 NYC BLO participant.

"This was my second year coming out. It was wonderful to meet with familiar and new faces. There’s just something about being with other women, (and men!), taking pride and standing firm in breastfeeding. It creates this great space of empowerment and resolve you can take home with you to use to continue to dispel stigma and pressure to not publicly breastfeed. 

 

It was great to be in that energy. All of the dads got to bond and feel pride in the breastfeeding journey and their important involvement as supporters, and well, as dads! We got to see other families with older tots and kids too. Seeing a generation of breastfed kiddies growing up and flourishing was heartwarming and inspirational.

 

This is the kind of event that really showcases how breastfeeding isn’t an isolated thing. On the contrary, it's something that involves and positively affects the whole family because it positively affects the children.” – Teena Botan, 2019 NYC BLO participant.

My deepest gratitude to you all

Breastfeeding World began after I became a mother to my beautiful baby girl. It began after I was told: “we don’t do ‘THAT’ in here,” while shopping in a children’s clothing store in the UWS. It began after I felt powerless and disoriented by the double standards surrounding a women’s body. It began after I felt the need to be the voice of many through my photography. It began because of each and every one of you, so, THANK YOU.

 

Our breastfeeding journey lasted 4.5 years, it was not easy but it was worth it! - ©Alegares Photography

 

Throughout these past five years, Breastfeeding World has given me a reason to keep on going and pushing forward despite the many obstacles. Although my daughter and I stopped breastfeeding at 4.5 years, I feel that my “nursing relationship” with BFW is still going on (if you know what I mean!). That strong bond and connection we share, grows deeper every day. Despite my imperfections as its “mother,” I feel that BFW has been able to thrive because of you.

Our commitment to empowering women around the world is what keeps us going day to day. Breastfeeding World will continue moving forward and just like our individual motherhood journeys. We will continue sharing the breastfeeding love one day at a time. So, hold on tight! Are you ready for our epic ride?

I would LOVE to hear your thoughts. What would you like to see more of in the future from Breastfeeding World? Please share them in the comment section below!.  

Don't forget! Check out our social media pages to keep up with the breastfeeding love.

If you participated in the event and would like to see more pictures please register to view our gallery. You may purchase images directly through the site, thank you for supporting Breastfeeding World. 

 

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Summer, oh summer! It’s certainly one of the best seasons of the year but it’s also one of the busiest as well. Specially if you happen to live on the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard. 

This year Breastfeeding World hosted its third annual Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch On and boy was it a good one. Back on August 5^th, 16 Martha’s Vineyard breastfeeding moms came together once again to make this event a great one.

Some new faces and some returning mothers who year by year make these events well worth it.

One of the special things I love about our Martha’s Vineyard Latch On is how intimate and empowering it always is. I’ve been able to see how these mamas and babes grow in their journeys and this year I had the opportunity to photograph the same ladies I met back in 2015 when we held our very first Breastfeeding World photo session on the island.

This time around, they came with their new babes and a full-term nursling. (Kudos to Sarah and Mili, you make us proud!).

The beauty of breastfeeding and motherhood is that each journey is completely different and unique in its own way. Not only from mother to mother but from baby to baby as well. No matter how many books you may read or how many classes you may attend to, by the time that the baby comes you might be very informed as to what is about to happen but, are you really ready? Probably not.

During this year’s Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch On a momma told me she wasn’t sure whether or not I would continue on with the events due to me not nursing anymore… Let me take the chance and tell you all a short version of my story, the one probably none of you know….

My sweet mini-me was born on this gorgeous island, surrounded by beautiful landscapes that make this location THE place to be during summer.  My experience with giving birth was astounding, I went in not feeling prepared but my birthing team at the Hospital was amazing.

I was very fortunate, although my baby’s father was not present and I was/am a single momma, I had more than what I had wished for: I had my mother and my sister next to me, they were part of my unmedicated natural birth and everything that came thereafter.

I can assure you that without them my breastfeeding journey would’ve only been a few weeks affair.

My mother Bella and my sister Shelyn, two breastfeeding veterans with 8 children altogether knew exactly what to do in my moments of despair. With tears in my eyes I recall one time begging them to take my baby away because the pain of nursing and cracked nipples was unbearable. (Can you relate?)

Mom would cook all the healthy foods that my body needed to recover while Shelyn would help me take care of the baby. My mama would pass on some old wives’ tales from Ecuador while teaching me some great breastfeeding techniques and some massages to relief engorgement and potential clogged ducts.

With their support I made it past the challenging first three weeks of breastfeeding. Tears flowing down my face on several occasions but they never let me quit when I wanted to.

 

Our next milestone was 6 months, we made it. One full year, we made it. Eighteen months, we made it. Two years, we made it… until we kind of stopped keeping track.

My sweet mini-me nursed for 4 ½ years and weaned off earlier this year. Was it a bumpy ride? HELL YASS! Was it worth it? Every minute of it.

 

Today, as we lay down to sleep, (we bedshare baby!) there are nights where she turns looking for her ‘tities’. She knows that no milk comes out but she feels safe and that’s all that matters.

Did I encounter criticism for nursing beyond 2 years? Yes. Was it uncomfortable? At times, yes. Did it matter at the end? No. My baby has grown to be a sweet child who is happy and smiles quite often, she knows that mommy works so hard on Breastfeeding World and she loves helping me every way she can.

To you my sweet mama, who wasn’t sure the events would continue because I stopped nursing… Oh YES they will!

Little mini-me was who inspired me to start Breastfeeding World in the first place, our journey through breastfeeding and motherhood in general is what kept me going. Getting to know women who identified with each other in many ways was my fuel to push through.

Although we stopped nursing this year there are thousands of new mothers (and existing ones) that are going through their breastfeeding & motherhood journeys and they Need. Us. 

Breastfeeding World is bigger than my baby and I because now, all of you are part of its history as well as its success.

The Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch On is all about celebrating you, strong women and mothers who lift each other up. No matter in what phase of your motherhood journey you may be in, at some point you will need the support system that I thankfully had and that is what we aim to be for you all: the encouraging voice that pushes you through all the obstacles.

Let us all celebrate these amazing Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms, you are amazing!

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms

2018 Breastfeeding World’s sponsors

We have so much love for our Platinum Sponsor @KindredBravely! Through the Spring and Summer they have sponsored our Breastfeeding Photoshoots and provided every guest with a nursing pad in our swag bag and each Big Latch On location with an amazing raffle prize for a mom! Find out more about them at Kindredbravely.com

@cookiesformilknyc  cookies are full of all the right ingredients and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Head to their website to read about the 5 galactogogues in their cookies. www.cookiesformilk.com. Cookies for Milk is a Diamond sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s multi-city Big Latch Ons! You were able to find awesome goodies from their line in every Swag Bag!

We loved having @fabulanebulae as our Gold Sponsors for our Seattle and Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch Ons! The Salve to Quiet the Storm was the first product Fabula Nebulae created, in the family’s search for a natural product to heal their children’s skin. The Quiet Storm is a soothing and calming concoction that is the base for all of Fabula Nebulae’s natural, fair trade products to meet every family’s needs!

What are your tips for saving every last drop of milk? For breastfeeding moms, we all know that leaky boob syndrome will happen at any time, any where. Thank goodness for Milk Savers from @fairhaven_health! As a Double Gold Sponsor for our multi-city Big Latch Ons, Moms in Seattle and New York City Big Latch Ons will have a chance to win one Fairhaven Health Prize pack, which includes Milk Savers! Tag a mom who needs this now! Get more from Fairhaven Health at FairhavenHealth.com

We’re so excited to announce @mollychanson as our Gold Sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s New York City Big Latch On! Molly is the designer and founder of Soulma, an urban women’s clothing brand that fits and flatters women in all stages of their life, including motherhood! Check out more of Molly’s awesome urban line at Soulma.com, plus enter to win an amazing 3-piece gift when you make a purchase using the code “SOULSUMMER” and save 20% as an added perk!

@mrspatels is a Gold Sponsor for Seattle’s Big Latch On event! We’re so excited to have them on board. Mrs. Patel’s lactation treats and teas are an awesome addition for moms who are looking for options to get the best nutrients in while building milk supply. You can check out more at www.mrsmilk.com!

The post Celebrating Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding Moms appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

We have so much love for our Platinum Sponsor @KindredBravely! Through the Spring and Summer they have sponsored our Breastfeeding Photoshoots and provided every guest with a nursing pad in our swag bag and each Big Latch On location with an amazing raffle prize for a mom! Find out more about them at Kindredbravely.com

@cookiesformilknyc  cookies are full of all the right ingredients and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Head to their website to read about the 5 galactogogues in their cookies. www.cookiesformilk.com. Cookies for Milk is a Diamond sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s multi-city Big Latch Ons! You were able to find awesome goodies from their line in every Swag Bag!

We loved having @fabulanebulae as our Gold Sponsors for our Seattle and Martha’s Vineyard Big Latch Ons! The Salve to Quiet the Storm was the first product Fabula Nebulae created, in the family’s search for a natural product to heal their children’s skin. The Quiet Storm is a soothing and calming concoction that is the base for all of Fabula Nebulae’s natural, fair trade products to meet every family’s needs!

What are your tips for saving every last drop of milk? For breastfeeding moms, we all know that leaky boob syndrome will happen at any time, any where. Thank goodness for Milk Savers from @fairhaven_health! As a Double Gold Sponsor for our multi-city Big Latch Ons, Moms in Seattle and New York City Big Latch Ons will have a chance to win one Fairhaven Health Prize pack, which includes Milk Savers! Tag a mom who needs this now! Get more from Fairhaven Health at FairhavenHealth.com

We’re so excited to announce @mollychanson as our Gold Sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s New York City Big Latch On! Molly is the designer and founder of Soulma, an urban women’s clothing brand that fits and flatters women in all stages of their life, including motherhood! Check out more of Molly’s awesome urban line at Soulma.com, plus enter to win an amazing 3-piece gift when you make a purchase using the code “SOULSUMMER” and save 20% as an added perk!

@mrspatels is a Gold Sponsor for Seattle’s Big Latch On event! We’re so excited to have them on board. Mrs. Patel’s lactation treats and teas are an awesome addition for moms who are looking for options to get the best nutrients in while building milk supply. You can check out more at www.mrsmilk.com!

All Star Donators

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I started using it that very next day.

I have to tell you that I live in Texas and its knee deep in an awfully hot summer right now (we are talking 106-108 degrees without the heat index!). So, I was really going to be able to put this to the test. I have now been using it for over a week with amazing results.

Not once have I been stinky. Not once. I have been so very impressed with this deodorant.

It doesn’t irritate my skin like some of the other natural ones have, the scent is very light (almost non-existent), and it really works. I have yet to wear it with a white or light-colored shirt that has sleeves though, so I am still interested to see if it would discolor them when I do. I will be sure to include this in my follow-up post about these products!

It was almost as if they knew exactly what I needed right then!

First, the packaging. It was simple and understated, and fit the products perfectly. Each of the two products were wrapped individually and a note about their company, Fabula Nebulae, and products was included. I

loved their motto, “farm to tub naturals.”

This really spoke to me and I was excited to try both products! If you use natural products, you know how challenging it can be to find an all-natural deodorant that actually works. I was surprised to see that when I opened this one, it was a dark gray. I was a little hesitant, to be honest, because I was worried it might stain or leave that color behind on my clothes.

The second product was a skin calming salve.

While I was out taking pictures of the products and their packaging for this post, an ant was nice enough to bite my arm.

I instantly applied Quiet the Storm.

It helped with the stinging and itching right away. I did re-apply throughout the day, but it was able to keep it at bay when I did so. I also started to apply it to a few dry spots I get here and there, and it seemed to help them as well. Again, the scent with this product too is very light, almost a bit citrusy. I really like it! It also goes on very smooth and absorbs with no oil or residue left behind.

The post Farm to Tub Naturals with Fabula Nebulae appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Guest Post Series by Molly Chanson of Soul Ma

The baby finally slept. My father in law leaned over the back of the couch and peered lovingly at baby Bennett, who was swaddled tightly inside his Moses basket. From my spot on the other side of the couch, I noticed the joy on his face as he watched his new grandson sleep. He had just come from the office and was wearing a simple cotton t-shirt tucked into black dress pants. It was a hot June day and I could hear people walking their dogs on the sidewalk outside. I glanced down at my socks and pajamas, and thought about what I would normally be doing on a sunny summer evening. Suddenly exhausted, I wanted to sleep myself.

“It’s fun being a new mommy, isn’t it?” he excitedly said.

“Yeah.” I smiled back and nodded.

I looked at my new son in the basket my friend had given to me. She’d used it with all 3 of her boys.

It was quite an adorable spot to lay the baby in–hand woven with pale yellow reeds and lined with soft, ivory fabric. It had two handles on the sides, each decorated with a tiny silk bow. For all purposes, it functioned as an actual basket. But, I was cautioned, it probably wasn’t a good idea to actually carry the baby in the basket, as the handles were purely for decoration. Despite this impractical aspect, it did create the perfect, magazine-worthy napping space for a baby.

“Well, I’m off but I’ll stop by again tomorrow! I love you.” My father-in-law kissed me on the forehead and gathered his things. As he walked down the stairs and noisily shut the door, the baby jumped. His eyelids twitched and his arms sprung loose from the swaddle.

I couldn’t breathe–please don’t wake up, not yet…

Bennett settled back into his slumber, and I slowly exhaled.

Me, the basket, and the baby, had been on this couch for days. The basket and the baby were so delicate and tender – when Bennett slept in it, everything looked like a magical scene out of Pottery Barn’s Nursery edition. And then there was me–unshowered, undressed, and unqualified.

Tears sprung to my eyes and I felt a knot form in my stomach.

How could I have been so naïve?

New babies were hard work. I was so in love, yet terrified at the same time. There are expectations around motherhood – everyone else around me was elated and celebrating.

I don’t think it’s ok to admit you’re scared of your own baby. I wouldn’t admit it –to myself, or to anyone.

This special guest post series are pieces from Molly Chanson, a sponsor for Breastfeeding World’s 2018 multi-city Big Latch On Events. She is the owner of Soul Ma, a high end clothing brand designed to help women conquer every stage of motherhood in fashion. Find her at our NYC Times Square Big Latch On!

Guest Post Sponsored by:

Be sure to join us in our social media accounts and be up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our hashtag

#BreastfeedingWorld

Feature Image: Nathan Burros

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