
Weathering the storms of Breastfeeding
In Fresno, the skies have been dark and gloomy for days, with great downpours of rain filling the streets. Travel was sometimes challenging this past week, as the drainage gutters failed to keep up with the huge volumes of water being sent their direction. Then came Thursday morning, when it became evident that the storms, for the moment, had passed. The sun shone brightly in a gorgeous blue sky. The air was visibly cleaner. Shadows were crisp, and the earth appeared refreshed. Even the streets once burdened by the storm suddenly had the gleam of a child’s freshly-washed face.
So it is with breastfeeding sometimes. The beginning may seem like a storm, with both mother and baby struggling to learn this new dance called latch-on. The first days may send intermittent rainfall in the form of issues such as nipple pain, engorgement, or sleepless nights. Sometimes it feels like a downpour. It is at these moments that some mothers back away, afraid that this breastfeeding thing may just not be for them. What they cannot see is that with a bit of help, guidance, and gentle hands-on care, they will overcome the issues and can see it through until the sun shines. What these mothers need is the support of a good Lactation Consultant, who can provide them the tools and strength they need to weather the storm. In Fresno, the help is there if it is needed and wanted. A call to Tess Johnson Lactation Services can lead mothers directly to the lactation help they need, offered right in the comfort of their own home.
Just as rainy weather often turns to sunshine in a gradual fashion, success in breastfeeding often comes over time. First one feeding, then more…until soon both mother and baby are nursing gracefully, without effort or pain. When it happens, it feels as if the sun is shining everywhere, because the conveniences and rewards of breastfeeding are profound. The truth that must be recognized is that no storm lasts forever. The sun eventually will break through, and things will become easier. The challenge, then, is helping mothers to remain strong and focused until that day comes, and in Fresno, getting good lactation help in the home is the key.


























