As a first-time mom, I gave birth to my beautiful baby boy on March 31st, 2024. He weighed a healthy 9 pounds, 1 ounce, and while I had planned a home birth, things didn’t go as expected. My midwife noticed complications during labor, so we had to transfer to the hospital. After experiencing some birth trauma, I was hoping that at least breastfeeding would go smoothly. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case either.
The Beginning: Nipple Trauma and Mastitis
Initially, I didn’t have issues with my baby’s first latch—it was uncomfortable, but I was not concerned that it was abnormal. However, the hospital gave me nipple shields to use, but they were incorrectly fitted. Using these shields caused severe nipple trauma, and by four days postpartum, my nipples were torn to shreds. My milk had come in, but I couldn’t get my little one to latch. This led to mastitis, which added to my breastfeeding struggles.
I was advised to pump as much milk as I could, but unfortunately, I didn’t know anything about proper flange sizing at the time. My nipples continued to suffer as a result. After three weeks of agony and no relief, I sought help from a lactation consultant. She correctly fitted me with the right size breast shield/flange and suggested that I exclusively pump while my nipples healed.
Complications: An Abscess and Hospital Stay
During this period, I noticed a hard, hot lump in my left breast. Despite being on antibiotics and trying every possible remedy - including ultrasound therapy -nothing seemed to work. My lactation consultant worked tirelessly with me, but the symptoms of mastitis persisted. Finally, at six weeks postpartum, she urged me to go to the hospital, where I learned the infection had turned into an abscess.
The hospital started me on IV antibiotics and pain medication, but it took them some time to get me an ultrasound. Once they did, they informed me that I needed a drainage tube to clear the abscess. Even with the drainage tube in place, I was determined not to give up. I continued to pump, though I had to pump and dump due to the medication.
After a nine-day hospital stay, I finally returned home, still committed to breastfeeding.
Finding Hope: Correcting Tongue and Lip Ties
Once I was home, I visited my lactation consultant again. I didn’t want to give up. We tried to get my baby to latch, but he still had a painful latch. After further evaluation, we decided to correct his tongue and lip ties. What a world of difference that made!
It wasn’t an instant fix—it took time and patience to successfully breastfeed with little to no pain—but we finally made it. Now, I’m able to nurse my baby, and I only pump when needed.
Reflection: The Support That Got Me Through
This journey was long and challenging, but I knew I wasn’t going to give up easily. I struggled with the thought of quitting, but in the end, I realized it hurt more to stop than to keep going. I’m so glad I stuck it out because now I get to enjoy the beautiful experience of feeding my child.
I have to thank my husband and my mom for their unwavering support and encouragement. They knew how much I didn’t want to stop breastfeeding, and they supported my decision every step of the way. My husband stood by my side and advocated for me when needed, giving me the strength to keep pushing forward.
My breastfeeding journey was an absolute rollercoaster, but we made it through. I’m so grateful for the outcome, and for the people who helped me along the way. Thank you for letting me share my story!
Maguire
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