Finding confidence through breastfeeding support

Emma Avila, epackard1@iuhealth.org, writer for IU Health’s Metro Region

After facing unexpected challenges, one new mother found the support she needed at IU Health West to successfully breastfeed her daughter.

Allison Williamson wasn't initially sure she wanted to breastfeed her daughter. But after attending new-mom classes, she decided she wanted to give it a try. When Aria was born, Allison connected with the lactation team at IU Health West to help make that goal a reality.

As a first-time mom, Allison wasn't sure what to expect from her breastfeeding journey, but she was pleasantly surprised by the support she received.

"You can tell these people absolutely love their jobs, love what they do," she says. "They never seem put out, or say, 'Yes, I've heard this question 100 times.' It's 100% attention on you, 100% of the time."

"Our plan is whatever mom's plan is. We want to get her to where she wants to be," adds Crecia Berninger, a lactation consultant at IU Health West. "If she changes her mind at any time, we are changing with her. We always try to make sure our recommendations and support align closely with her goals, whether that's breastfeeding, pumping or combination feeding."

Aria was delivered at 38 weeks, and Allison's milk did not come in for about two weeks after giving birth. During that time, she supplemented with donor milk and formula.

After a brief postpartum stay, Allison was readmitted three days later for postpartum preeclampsia. While she recovered and learned to help Aria latch, members of the lactation team visited at least once or twice a day, and more frequently when needed.

Finding reassurance and community

In the weeks that followed, Allison also attended the breastfeeding support group at IU Health West, where she found education, encouragement and connection with other mothers.

"I went to the breastfeeding group every Monday, sometimes to get support for pain or adjustments, and sometimes just for the camaraderie of being around other moms and women who really understand what you're going through," she says. "I think the lactation team served as therapists sometimes, being there and seeing how they support beyond just, 'Is baby doing OK?'"

The weekly support group meets every Monday at 10 am, except on federal holidays, in the Labor and Delivery large waiting area. Berninger says she consistently hears positive feedback from mothers who attend.

"There's strength in numbers. When you're a mom who is struggling, it's wonderful to have professional guidance and someone there to help," she explains. "But it's also important to know you're not alone. Hearing from other moms who are going through the same thing, or who have gone through it and come out the other side, can be incredibly empowering."

Support is available

August marks National Breastfeeding Month, an annual observance dedicated to improving breastfeeding support and outcomes across the United States.

Today, Allison is successfully breastfeeding Aria and enjoying life with her growing daughter. She hopes sharing her experience encourages other mothers to seek support and know that help is available.

"I encourage new moms, and even moms having another baby, who may have never breastfed before, to give it a shot," she says. "You'd be really surprised how resourceful the lactation team is at making you feel supported and seen and helping you build that amazing bond with your baby."

Berninger hopes mothers understand that breastfeeding support is available regardless of their feeding goals.

"Maybe you only want to do a little breastfeeding. Maybe you just want to pump a little," she says. "You can come see us, and we can help keep you on the path you choose. We want you to feel empowered to feed your baby in the way that works best for you."

In addition to the postnatal breastfeeding support group, IU Health West now offers a prenatal breastfeeding support group. The group meets every Monday at 5 pm, except on federal holidays, and is also held in the Labor and Delivery large waiting area. Both support groups are open to anyone interested in breastfeeding, regardless of where they plan to give birth or delivered their baby. For more information, call the IU Health West Lactation team at 317.217.3639.