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.

Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

The post Mommy and Me Costumes – A fun way to enjoy Halloween 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. 

 

Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

The post 5th annual Big Latch On in Times Square, a celebration to remember appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Breastfeeding World Founder, Professional Photographer, Full-Time Working Mother

I believe we can all relate to the fact that life as a new mom is challenging in every way. One day you are enjoying a night out with your husband, partner, friends or family and the next you are juggling 20,000 things that are thrown at you. It feels like an everyday battle, for real!

A few years back, when I was pregnant with my little girl I was living in the city that “never sleeps”, in the city that “all dreams come true”;New York City.

At the time, both me and my unborn baby were going through very challenging high risk pregnancy, I was 21 years old and not prepared to be a single mommy. Most importantly, I thought I was not prepared to handle the required life changes that were to come. There was no other choice…

Since my high school years I had always been passionate about photography. After my daughter was born, I spent countless hours in front of my camera hoping to capture her every move. As a result, little by little I started finding joy in documenting our daily lives. I was able to re-kindle with my photography education and spent many more hours working along side very talented photographers who became my mentors.

Meanwhile, I found myself being called to document special moments in my client’s lives. As a photographer, my goal has always been to capture candid interactions that are full of raw emotions. Most importantly, you are the main focus in this whole process and capturing the essence of what makes you, YOU is what I aim for. 

Photography – A passion that lead to activism

While living in New York City I had been harassed for breastfeeding in public. Consequently, In late 2013 I created the New York City Breastfeeding World photo project with the intention of showcasing the beauty of nursing. Above all, mothers needed to stand together and support each other in their journey, that’s were I came in.

I partnered with several makeup artists and other fellow photographers in the area and we were able to gift 80+ NYC moms with a beautiful breastfeeding portrait session. From that point on, there was no going back!

As a result, Breastfeeding World has become an important platform for many parents around the world. It provides them with a level of encouragement and support that many need on a daily basis. I am confident that by sharing our experiences new moms will feel empowered to continue on their breastfeeding and motherhood journeys.

What started as an artistic photo project has now become a fast growing global community of like-minded women who are united by their passion for motherhood. Together, with unique stories, amazing one-of-a-kind events and professional advice, we are becoming that new momma’s support system. Being the Breastfeeding World founder has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. 

 

“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever… It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.” — Aaron Siskind

admin

A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Alexia Garcia – Mother, Photographer & BFW Founder appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Part of my family lives on the island and just being here brings me so many happy memories like sitting in Ocean Park during a hot sunny day and admiring the view of both the cottage houses and the close by beach. No wonder why every islander says… Once you visit Martha’s Vineyard you’ll never want to leave!

This year, when we decided we were going to come to Martha’s Vineyard for our last bit of summer vacation right after our very first Big Latch On in NYC, I knew that our little trip to the island had to be the best. We had to do what both my little girl and I are good at…. Creating amazing memories!

That is how our very first oficial event took place. Best Milk? Mom’s Milk was made possible thanks to the amazing support we had from the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, the YMCA of Martha’s Vineyard and business such as: Citrine MV, Made MV, Milk Makers, Mamma Chia, Silverette & The Naked Nursing Tank.

Photography by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

After our successful event, making Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding World photo session happen was so empowering! I got to meet four beautiful breastfeeding mommies who had difficulties at the beginning of their journey but they didn’t give up! We went to the oh so famous Gazebo in Ocean Park, one of the very touristic icons on the island where they breastfed their little ones with so much love!

The breastfeeding community on the island is not too big but it definitely is an amazing one. According to a conversation I had with Dr. Miller, pediatrician from MV Hopsital, the brazilian breastfeeding community is the most affected by lack of proper information and education leading to an average nursing period of 2-3 months.  Unfortunately it was impossible for us to find a current Brazilian breastfeeding mama on island during our session.

Martha’s Vineyard Breastfeeding World – Stories of success!

Photography by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

Saundra Hart and Baby Azealia LaBell

I knew breastfeeding would come naturally to me so when I finally started to nurse my baby I was shocked at the learning curve we both faced and the amount of pain I was in.  We eventually got in our groove and the pain started to fade until I forgot it had even been a factor. Then at two weeks my daughter started having severe digestive issues that caused her incredible stomach pain. She began to fall in the weight percentiles at her well visits. After some trips to the lab and a GI specialist we found out that she’s allergic to several foods I was eating. Her pediatrician suggested I stop breastfeeding her and put her on a special formula for babies with food allergies. I was devastated. This was supposed to be the easy part. I decided that my baby’s best interest was to be breastfed and changed my diet. I’ve always been a vegetarian but now I’ve cut out dairy, soy, wheat, and eggs. I’ve found reasonable dietary substitutes and my baby and I are both healthy now. It can be difficult when I just want ice cream or a sandwich but the nutritional and developmental benefits she receives are more important to me.  

Photography by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

Sarah Mattson & Baby Emilia

Breastfeeding for me was a real challenge and test of my strength. Naturally I want what is best for my baby girl but I actually found it hard to bond with her during her feedings because it was so very painful. After treating a yeast infection in each breast and a split nipple the pain didn’t cease. It truly felt like I was being cut with small pieces of glass. It seemed to get worse even though I treated my breasts by letting the milk airdry and using cold compresses. All I could do was stare into Emilia’s eyes and cry because that is how I made it through each feeding. Every week I succeeded I committed to one more week. This went on for 8 weeks. Turns out I also had Reynauds of the nipple and had been exacerbating it with those treatments. But with warm compresses and the help and support of some very wonderful women in the breastfeeding network on the Vineyard, I have come to love breastfeeding my sweet little lady.

Photography by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

Melissa Schellhammer and Baby Juniper

Juniper was born pre-term and via cesarean section and it took her a long time to figure out how to latch. I am so grateful for the amazing nurses at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital for teaching me safe bedsharing practices so that I could keep her skin to skin with me round the clock until we established a good nursing routine. I quickly realized that my body was not compatible with pumping so I worked hard to keep up a good supply and allowing Juniper to demand feed and co-sleep really helped with that. I struggled through 3 bouts of mastitis, one was so rough that I couldn’t even get out of bed. My goals for breastfeeding have changed over time; I went from hoping I could nurse my tiny baby to trying to at least make it to her first birthday, but I am proud to be still nursing my little two year old! There are definitely new challenges these days, mostly having to do with other people’s opinions on when enough is enough. My current breastfeeding goal is to think of what is best for Juniper and ignore everything else. Nursing has definitely not always been that perfect photo moment but every teardrop, every minute of lost sleep, every painful plugged duct disappears when I look down and see the comfort and nourishment that I am able to give to my beautiful Juniper.

We’d love tp hear from you! Share with us your up’s and down’s of your breastfeeding journey in the comments below! 

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

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

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

Fashion is something that is easily overlooked in the days, weeks, and if you’re anything like me, months after having a baby. I felt frumpy and messy for the first few months and it seemed like I was topless AND covered in milk 24/7. I mainly wore my old maternity clothes, which didn’t make me feel very good about myself. When I started venturing outside, my daughter was around two months old, and I needed clothes that made breastfeeding in public easier, while also making me feel better about my new body. After searching my local mall from top to bottom, I realized there aren’t very many stores that carry clothing that is specifically for a breastfeeding mother without also doubling as maternity clothing. There are snap-down camis and bras, shirts with flaps and holes, dresses that stretch from here to there, and fancy woven tops that can be very, very hard to put on correctly.These clothes often have a hefty price tag to boot, and a lot of new mothers have to be careful with extra expenses as they now have a new life to invest in.

If you are worried that you won’t be able to afford all of the clothing that you need to breastfeed, I’m happy to say that in the past fourteen months I’ve gotten by with only four nursing bras, three nursing specific tops, and a whole lot of creativity. I searched within my own closet to figure out what styles worked for me without spending a fortune and I am happy to share them with you now.

1. The Sleeveless T-Shirt:

If you aren’t comfortable showing a lot of cleavage, this is an excellent option. You can make one out of an old T-Shirt to save extra money. Your sleeve holes should be bigger around the armpit in order to breastfeed without ruining the shirt and a stretchy material works best. You can find the “Mere. Soeur.” (Mother. Sister.) shirt that I’m wearing here.

2. Double Shirt Method:

This one comes in handy if your baby dislikes nursing covers and you are uncomfortable exposing your breasts to other people. Simply wear two loose-fitting, preferably low-cut shirts, then pull the top layer up over your chest and pull the bottom layer (along with your nursing bra) down right before you latch your baby. As your baby gets older and his or her head gets bigger, it will be virtually impossible to see any flesh if you position your shirt the right way. The green shirt that I am wearing is a pre-pregnancy boyfriend tee from Target, while the striped shirt is a maternity tank from H & M that is tight-fitting enough to look normal after pregnancy. Even if I bought these brand new, it only would cost about $20 for both. Try a thrift store instead and you will save even more!

3. Loosely Fitted Tank Top:

This is an edgier style, but can be versatile depending on the type of tank top you choose. In the picture above I am demonstrating the side pull (this will cover more of your breast), as well as the pull down method (which is fast and efficient if nursing in public does not make you blush). The best thing about this shirt is that I bought it long before getting pregnant, so not only can I breastfeed comfortably in it, but it cost me nothing in the process. I wear this style a lot while babywearing, which is another great way to discreetly nurse in public without using a cover.

Any of these styles can be worn year-round when paired with jeans and a blazer, or a skirt and cardigan. Whatever style you choose, have fun and get creative! You don’t have to buy a $30 nursing top, or continue wearing your maternity clothes in order to breastfeed and be fashionable. Dig into your closet and find what works for you. The most important thing is that you are comfortable and can feed your precious baby with confidence while saving a few bucks in the process.

Happy nursing, ladies!

We love to hear from you! What is your go to fashion item as a breastfeeding mother?

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

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld 

Lissa James

Hi! I’m Lissa James, currently living and loving in Seattle, Wa. I blog mainly about my experience breastfeeding, as well as attachment parenting, and postpartum anxiety and depression. I hope to encourage and empower other women through my writing. I am a Potterhead/The X-Files junkie, and I love to read and paint. I am currently writing and illustrating a children’s book about breastfeeding! Find me on instagram @bumblebeelullabies and find my mama mermaid art @mermamame!

bumblebeelullabies.wordpress.com/

The post Affordable Fashion for the Breastfeeding Mother appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Our very first latch

I tried so hard to find a comfortable position, but the hospital just could not provide that for me. I sat in the most uncomfortable chair, crying as she latched and the pain made my toes curl. I just wanted to be home. I spent the night before we went home watching videos of babies latching, over and over; I needed to be successful, I needed to breastfeed. I had promised myself that I would exhaust all resources after not being able to breastfeed my son because I was uneducated.  

That morning brought so many good things. Charlotte was more awake and ready to eat, my milk had come in strong, and, most importantly, we were going home. The few latches before we left were so great. Of course there was still excruciating pain on the initial latch but after a few seconds, it was painless. I remember telling myself I could do it, telling myself that the pain was only temporary and that I would regret it if I quit.

I was ready to take this on and get it right so I contacted a lactation consultant. I knew that my latch had improved tremendously and that feedings were progressively becoming better, but I needed that vote of confidence. I really needed someone who knew what they were doing to tell me that I had gotten it. My lactation consultant was wonderful. She made me feel comfortable, she calmed me and gave me the confidence to say that I was going to do it. She became my lifeline in what was to come. Somehow, deep down, I knew my struggles weren’t over.

Charlotte, enjoying her time at home

Breastfeeding is the hardest thing in the world… until it becomes the easiest

I recovered from the cracked nipples and things were improving so amazingly. Until they weren’t. It started as sharp shooting pain in my left breast, it was easy to ignore, but my mind went back to something my lactation consultant said: “we just have to watch for mastitis. When cracked nipples happen in the hospital, mastitis is likely to happen”. I frantically researched mastitis, If I was going to get it; I wanted to be able to catch it as early as possible.

The next morning, I woke up in pain; my left breast was swollen and red. This was it, I knew I had mastitis. I spoke to my lactation consultant and she instructed me to start taking a probiotic, because we needed to avoid thrush after the mastitis was gone. My fever climbed to 103, which was something I had never experienced before.   I am not usually the type to rest when I am sick. I always feel the need to be doing something and being sick doesn’t slow me down, but this time it did. I didn’t leave the couch.

I fed Charlotte and pumped as much as I could because that was the only thing that made me feel better. 12 hours later, things were starting to look up, the antibiotics were working on my fever. I thought I had been through the worst so I was optimistic.

That 24 hour pill was like gold to me, I was ready to be better, I was ready to enjoy breastfeeding until my fever spiked to 104. I had never felt so hot and yet so cold. Every joint in my body felt like it was going to explode, I felt like I couldn’t open my eyes because everything was offensive.  “Give it time,” I reminded myself to give the medicine time to work. An hour later, I took my temperatue: 103.2. It had barely made a dent and I knew it was time to call.

Both, my midwife and lactation consultant told me to go to the emergency room immediately.

I waited in the emergency room, shivering, in horrible pain and worst of all, without my baby. There were only two feedings pumped for her, so the pressure was on to get out of there quick. My stomach was in knots thinking about her at home, that soon she would need me and I might not be there. I plead my story to every nurse, every doctor, any person who would listen to me, begging to be seen promptly. Two and a half hours later, my doctor told me it was severe and clearly the antibiotics were not working.

She set me up with IV antibiotics and fluids and asked how I would feel about being admitted. They wanted to keep me overnight. “NO” the word flew out of my mouth so fast, it was like it was not me who said it. She understood, after all, everyone in that hospital knew how desperate I was to get back to my baby.

My husband had already given her the last of the breast milk, so I couldn’t be there any longer than absolutely necessary. As the IV finished, I felt tremendously better, my fever was gone, my swelling was down, I was able to pump, (and dump, ugh) the medication out of my breastmilk.

It was still 20 minutes, at the very least, until we could be home. We had formula samples, I told  my husband where they were. I knew it was necessary, I couldn’t let Charlotte suffer and be hungry because I didn’t want her to have formula. It wasn’t a defeat; I was not going to let it bother me.

My son was on formula, he was beautiful and healthy, there is nothing wrong with formula. It was just not what I wanted.

I raced back home and walked in the door. It was quiet. My sweet girl was sleeping. I asked, “You gave her formula?” and my husband replied: “No, I walked around with her and tried to give her a pacifier and keep her as calm as I could and she fell asleep”. I never told him, but I almost started to cry. I felt so loved in that moment. He did everything he could because he knew that this was so important to me. I love him with all of my heart, all of the time, but that moment, that amazing display of love and support, made me love him even more.

Our family during our Maternity photo session with Alegares Photography

A week later, I took my last pill. The mastitis was over, I felt great and I loved breastfeeding. I was building a little stash in the freezer to make sure I would always have some there for her, just in case. We were in a groove and really loving everything until I noticed a spot on my arm that was getting itchy, I thought that it was a reaction to something I had eaten, so I decided to take nap with my sweet girl to sleep off the little rash.

When I awoke, I was covered from head to toe in tiny red bumps, a terrible, itchy ugly rash, it seemed like an allergic reaction. I was terrified that it was contagious so I ran to urgent care around the block from my house, just to be seen quickly. They checked me over and determined it was an allergic reaction to the antibiotic.

I could not take benedryl, since antihistamines diminish your supply incredibly. The doctor came back to me with a prescription for a steroid that would help it clear up quickly. There was a side effect that I would not be happy with: it also diminished supply. “What happens if I don’t take it?”  I asked. Her look of shock was interesting. She said that I could possibly get away with not taking it, but if within the week the rash was persistent, not looking better or I were having any trouble breathing, I would have to take the medication. Deal.

I dealt with oatmeal baths, calamine lotion and jedi-mind-tricking myself into thinking I was not itchy. It worked and the rash began to clear up on its own. As the rash started to dwindle off, I noticed I was having some nipple pain. It was very odd pain though, it did not happen at the beginning of a latch, on the contrary, it was happening more towards the end of feeding and would persist even after the feedings were over.

I remembered this, I had read about this. It was thrush.   My mind spiraled into self pity, how could I be this unlucky to have every single breastfeeding ailment happen to me, it was unfair, on and on. I talked myself off the ledge, because in reality, it was science. That was all it was, luck had absolutely nothing to do with it.

When you kill bacteria with antibiotics, good bacteria dies along with it, letting yeast run wild. Science and fact and it was something I had to deal with. I read everything I could on the treatment of thrush and I began a crazy regimen of vinegar rinses, my prescribed anti-fungal medication, grapefruit seed extract, constant changing of clothes, sheets and towels, with bleach or Clorox 2 as my best friend. I was going to beat thrush and it was not coming back. Sorry thrush, you are not welcome here.  

A week into the exhausting treatment and I was not sure that it was getting better, the nursing discomfort had pretty much subsided but I still had redness and irritation, which of course is a side effect of nystatin as well as a sign of thrush. I wanted it to be gone, I wanted to get up and not have to prepare myself to feed her.  

Breastfeeding during NYC’s Breastfeeding World first Big Latch On in Times Square

My six-week well visit brought so much good news. My midwife gave me a clean bill of health, everything was healing wonderfully and she believed my thrush was mostly gone. I was told continue the treatment for another week. I left the office feeling so much better, I felt renewed, like all of this hard work and determination had brought me to the point I wanted to be.   Six weeks. In six weeks, I had been through the wringer; I had struggled the hardest I have ever struggled with my body. But, I had also helped my sweet baby girl grow from 8 lbs 15 oz and 20.5 inches long to 13 lbs 1 oz and 23 inches long, I had soothed my angel when she was gassy, brought her comfort in her times of need, I had bonded with her. I bonded with her in my hardest time and through all the blood sweat and tears, I came out with a smile on my face.

I stuck to what I really wanted for my daughter and I could not be prouder of myself.   I hope that in telling my story, I can inspire another mom to push through the hard beginnings. My husband, my dad and my friends kept me going, kept me on my track and I hope to be that support system for another mom, the way they were for me. I will tell my daughter our story, lead by example, so that she knows, when things get tough, you never give up something that you desperately want to do.   Breastfeeding is the hardest thing in the world, until it is the easiest and most wonderful thing in the world.

We’d love to hear from you: Which struggles have you encountered in your breastfeeding journey? How did you overcome them? 

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

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld

Samantha Sykula

Born and raised in NY, I studied speech and language pathology at NYU. I am a stay at home mom to two beautiful children, Richard and Charlotte and wife to my wonderful husband, Rich. I have always had a deep love for learning, which has grown further since becoming a mother, I am always looking for new ways to enrich our lives. Becoming a mother changed my life, I learned compassion, caring and most importantly, true love. I hope to share the experiences of my breastfeeding, cloth diapering, babywearing, crocheting, full of love, life.

The post A Successful Breastfeeding Story appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Ironically, most governments support six months of exclusive breastfeeding, but sabotage this recommendation by providing only 45 days of maternity leave after birth (and some moms have none).

The “baby-moon” is too short! It’s like dating: for loving and getting involved with someone, it requires time. The same thing happens with motherhood. We need time to adapt to the new feelings, to the new schedule (some of us never do), to the new life we have in our arms. In 45 days, we are just starting to understand our baby’s cues!

And breastfeeding crisis begins…

Above all, we have our pediatrician, depending on how “supportive” he or she is with breastfeeding, some have never breastfed or are not parents, so talking about parenting choices with them, they’ll probably give opinions based on their own experience, yet not all experiences apply to our lives.

Oh! And how about our family and friends? It all comes down to one thing: Have you seen them breastfeed, or at least the male family members have seen women in your family breastfeed? If the answer is no, they’ll probably won’t be the ones you’ll count on when having a “midnight crisis”(a.k.a. colic). They’ll probably be the first to suggest a pacifier or a bottle of formula, and again, breastfeeding crises. So, what can you as women and mother do to prevent sabotaging your breastfeeding experience?

According to the “Womanly Art of Breastfeeding” and my experience, it is quite as simple as:

• Building a support network: Women and families that breastfeed or that have breastfed. Where to find them? At a La Leche League support group, or hang out with those “exhibitionist” women at a park feeding their babies. There are many play-date groups you may join too.

• “No, thank you”: “A little bit of formula won’t do harm. You need time for yourself.” Answer: “No, thank you”. “She is crying so much! Your milk seems not to satisfy her hunger.” Watch for hunger cues. Trust your body.

Read: Is my baby getting enough milk? A challenge to ditch the numbers and watch your baby

• “I can buy milk if you want”... your answer: “No, thank you”. “Try this new pacifier! It wont harm her suction“. Answer: “No, thank you”.

• No pacifiers or bottles: When pregnant, one of people’s favorite thing to give you, since it’s quite “normal” these days, are breast substitute products. Don’t have them near you. Use them after the second month of your child, or as simple as not using them, ever! These are the REAL enemies of breastfeeding! Nipples hurting, mastitis, and almost all breastfeeding problems come to these products. Avoid them if you want a successful breastfeeding experience. If you really need to go somewhere without your child, there are many options like having the baby drink from a tiny cup (like shots), having the baby “sit” in a 45° angle (if baby is younger than 6 months). Some moms give their breast-milk through a syringe.

• For working moms: Start on your breast milk bank A.S.A.P.! Use the prolactin peak (hormone involved in milk production), from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. to get a nice pump, so you can store it when needed. Use your baby’s sounds, pictures or while breastfeeding to get more milk out per pump, since the oxytocin, the hormone of love and milk release, boots out when the brain registers baby is near. Remember that breast-milk can stay: 7 days in a refrigerator, 1-3 months in a freezer shared with a refrigerator, and 3-6 months in an only freezer.

• Last but not least: Common sense and instincts are the ones to trust! In other words, TRUST YOURSELF! Trust your body, trust your milk and your breasts, as your heart which pumps blood, because that same blood is the milk that you give your child. Enjoy every second of life you’re giving to your baby…

Are you sabotaging your breastfeeding experience? What do you think? Share your experience with us by commenting below and inviting your breastfeeding friends to do so as well!

Love this post? Don’t forget to pin it!

Please join us in our social media accounts, get up to date with the progress of our project!

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #BreastfeedingWorld

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Maria Eugenia Corbett

Born in Panama City | I married and began a teaching career on 2007, I became a mother to her my first child in 2009 and I began going to La Leche League meetings being pregnant, becoming an active member and volunteer mother. After my second child on 2011, I began getting more involved in helping other moms | On 2014 Maria Eugenia became a Lactation Counselor and on August 18th I’ll be a certified La Leche League Leader | I’m a Breastfeeding speaker, an active leader and a counselor.

The post Are you sabotaging your breastfeeding experience? appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

In 2015, our project began with a few passionate moms in NYC. United together, they were excited to support other women and normalize breastfeeding. Since then, our small breastfeeding community has blossomed around the world. While our photo shoots and Big Latch On events remain in localized areas across the globe, our online community now reaches thousands of moms every week.

Together, we continue to grow, support, and “Spread the breastfeeding love.” However, Breastfeeding World needs you to join our team of volunteer blog contributors. Here, we continue to grow and support our amazing mommy readers!

Want to know more? Let me explain…

Photo taken from: http://www.77yregiment.com

• First, are you passionate about writing?
• Are you a lactation professional, SAHM, Working Mom, or blogger looking for a creative outlet?
• Do you enjoy telling stories?
• Can you share valuable tips about breastfeeding, birthing, child development, or parenting with other moms around the world?

We are looking for intelligent parents, who are willing to commit to submitting monthly blog posts with these guidelines:

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admin

A photography project founded in late 2014 by Alexia Garcia, photographer a Alegares Photography. Breastfeeding World aims to promote breastfeeding and encourage new moms to nurse their babies through the art of photography and story telling.

The post Looking for Volunteer Blog Contributors appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Photo by Christian Garcia – Alegares Photography

Photos by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

Photos by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

Photos by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

Photos by Christian Garcia – Alegares Photography

Photos by Christian Garcia – Alegares Photography

Photos by Christian Garcia – Alegares Photography

Congratulations Kelsie! Photo by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

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Photo by Christian Garcia – Alegares Photography

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

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #NYCBreastfeedingWorld 

Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

The post Our very first NYC Big Latch On  appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

Photo taken by Alexia Garcia – Alegares Photography

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

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #NYCBreastfeedingWorld 

Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

The post Let’s welcome World Breastfeeding Week 2015 appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

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Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

The post Join our NYC Big Latch On appeared first on Breastfeeding World.

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

And… Don’t forget to share your brelfies using our HT #NYCBreastfeedingWorld 

 

Alexia Garcia

I’m a proud mom to a beautiful little girl who is the reason of all my smiles | Creator and founder of the Breastfeeding World Project – passionate about normalizing breastfeeding | Professional photographer serving New York City

The post NYC breastfeeding moms peacefully protest against Big Morning Buzz show   appeared first on Breastfeeding World.