THE VITAL "NEONATAL WINDOW"
TIPS FOR A STRONG START IN THE FIRST MONTHGetting off to a strong start requires some key concepts: a good latch, frequency, and, most importantly, your own care so you can heal and regain your strength and build an abundant milk supply. 1. Focus on the Latch A good latch shouldn't be agonizing. Yes, there might be some initial "tender" moments as your nipples get used to the sensation and the stretching, but if you feel sharp or "squashing" pain, it’s a sign to gently break the seal and try again. Aim for a "deep" latch where the baby takes in a good portion of the areola, not just the nipple. 2. Embrace the "Ecological" Rhythm Many families I work with across the globe, and throughout the Twin Cities, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Stillwater, Woodbury, Hudson, and the St. Croix Valley are especially interested in ecological breastfeeding as one of our unique offerings. This isn't just about food; it’s a lifestyle of mother-baby togetherness. By following the "Seven Standards", which include frequent nursing, avoiding artificial nipples (pacifiers/bottles), sharing sleep, babywearing, and avoiding separations from your baby, many mothers find that this "attachment parenting" style of breastfeeding actually helps to avoid common breastfeeding difficulties, like low milk supply and engorgement -- and the plugged ducts and mastitis that often follow. And this natural way of breastfeeding suppresses the reproductive hormones in many women, spacing children naturally. It’s about working with your body’s design. 3. Maternal Care is Not Selfish You cannot pour from an empty cup. To make milk, you need calories, hydration, and, as much as possible, rest. I know, "sleep when the baby sleeps" feels like a joke when the laundry is staring at you or your toddler is asking you to read The Cat in the Hat for the fiftieth time. But in this first month, give yourself permission to let the house be a bit ~ or a lot! ~ messy and ask for help, including care of any older siblings. Your job is to care for yourself so you can heal from the beautiful but strenuous work of birth and to care for the new little human in your life. Breastfeeding is a full-time job! Finding Your Village: Support GroupsBreastfeeding is not meant to be done in isolation. Historically, women had sisters, mothers, and aunts surrounding them. Today, we have to be more intentional about creating that circle. At St. Croix Birth & Parenting, we offer two very special spaces for this, both available to families in the Twin Cities metro and St. Croix Valley and around the world who are looking for connection:
If you're looking at the upcoming schedule and wondering where to begin, the Breastfeeding Matters class is a lovely first step, especially for expectant and newly postpartum families in St. Paul, Minneapolis, and surrounding Twin Cities communities. (But since it's a virtual class, you can join from anywhere!) When You Need a Little Extra HelpSometimes, despite our best efforts, challenges arise. Maybe it's a tongue-tie, a slow weight gain, or just a feeling of being overwhelmed. This is where professional support can make all the difference. If you are struggling, please don't wait until you are at a breaking point. A breastfeeding consultation can provide the technical guidance and emotional reassurance you need. We can meet in person throughout the Twin Cities, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, and nearby communities, or virtually if you're further away. Additionally, our postpartum doula services are designed to mother the mother. Imagine someone coming into your home to hold the baby so you can shower, or to fix you a nutritious snack while we talk through your breastfeeding goals. It's about providing that "gentle guide" during the transition into parenthood. A BLESSING FOR YOUR FIRST MONTHTo the mama sitting there right now, perhaps with a sleepy baby on her chest: Your body is doing a miraculous thing. Whether your journey feels like a peaceful stream or a turbulent river right now, know that you are the perfect mother for your child. In these first 30 days, remember you can SUCCEED when you breastfeed:
You’ve got this, mama. And when it feels like you don't, we are right here to hold your hand. I’d love to hear from you: What has been the most surprising part of your first 30 days? Or, if you’re still waiting for baby’s arrival, what is the one thing you’re most looking forward to (or nervous about) with breastfeeding? Share with us in the comments! 
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In my experience as a mother of seven (yes, seven! Ask how I know about the "latch struggle" lol), I have learned that breastfeeding is a beautiful gift, but it is also a skill that often requires a gentle guide. While online videos and clinic visits have their place, there is something truly transformative about in-home breastfeeding support. Today, let’s talk about why inviting a professional into your sanctuary, your home, is a total game changer for your breastfeeding success. Recently, I was invited into "Rachel's" home. In addition to struggling to help her baby latch, she had been given breast shields in the hospital for flat nipples. Rachel also struggled with a forceful milk release. We worked on strategies to wean baby off the shields and use positioning techniques to help him attach and stay latched on. Rachel reported to me last week that while he still struggles with the letdown, he was staying attached for longer and that things have "definitely been improving." It has been such a blessing to be able to support this family and help make a difference at such a crucial time for long-term breastfeeding. The "Postpartum Paradox": Why Leaving the House is HardWhen you’re struggling with a newborn’s latch, the standard advice is often: "Make an appointment at the clinic." But let’s be real for a second. For a new mama, "making an appointment" involves:
This is what I call the Postpartum Paradox: the time when you most need professional breastfeeding consultation is the exact time when you are least equipped to leave your house, and when leaving your house is the least safe for your baby!  When I provide in-home support, I come to you. You don't have to put on real pants (unless you want to!). You don't have to pack a bag. You sit in your favorite chair, with your pillows, in your light. We work with your reality, not force you to come to mine! Why In-Home Support Beats a Video Every TimeI've got nothing against technology. I even offer a Breastfeeding Matters online class because I believe breastfeeding education is foundational to breastfeeding success! But there are limits to what we can do with a screen and possibly thousands of miles separating us.
The Personal Touch: Faith, Hope, and ExpertisE When you search for a birth doula in the Twin Cities, you’re looking for more than just a list of certifications. You’re looking for a heart that understands yours. At St. Croix Birth & Parenting, my approach is rooted in values-based, compassionate care. Whether I’m providing birth doula care during your birth or coming to your home for a lactation check-in, I bring my whole self to the table. As a mother who has tandem nursed three times and navigated the agonizing stress of a NICU stay and feeding tubes, I don't just "know" the technical side of breastfeeding, I feel it with you. I have sat where you are sitting. I have prayed the same prayers for peace and begging God to just let the milk flow. My goal is to provide natural birth support that extends far beyond the delivery room. We focus on the "whole" family, ensuring that the transition to parenthood is as joyful and tender as God intended it to be.  The S.U.P.P.O.R.T. Framework for Latch StrugglesIf you are struggling right now, I want to give you a small framework to hold onto until we can meet. When the "latch struggle" feels overwhelming, remember SUPPORT:
Community Matters: You Aren't Meant to Do This AloneBreastfeeding was never meant to be a solo sport. In traditional communities, a new mother would be surrounded by sisters, aunts, and grandmothers who would guide her hands and whisper encouragement. Today, we often live in "islands," and that is why I am so passionate about my support groups. Whether it’s our St. Croix Valley Mothers Support Group or our Catholic Nursing Mothers Support Group, finding your "village" is essential.  Let’s Find Your PeaceIf you are in the Twin Cities area and your breastfeeding journey feels more like a battle than a blessing, please reach out. There is no need to "tough it out" or wait for it to magically get better. Breastfeeding problems tend to get worse the longer you wait! Whether you need a one-time Newborn Care Birth Place Visit or ongoing in-home lactation support, I am here to be your gentle guide. We can work together to ensure your baby is nourished and you are empowered. I want to hear from you: What has been the most surprising part of your breastfeeding journey so far? The joy? The struggle? The middle-of-the-night realizations? Share your story in the comments below: I read every single one. Ready to get off the struggle bus? Click here to book an in-person breastfeeding consultation or a virtual breastfeeding counseling appointment* or learn more About Christelle’s experience.
* (If you are unable to locate quality local in-person support, or prefer to talk with someone of similar beliefs, a virtual visit is still a great option!) |
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