I breastfed all four of my children for well over a year until they self-weaned. My youngest continued to nurse for over three years.
Overall, breastfeeding was an enjoyable experience for me but that doesn't mean it was always easy. I was a lactation specialist years before having my own children but that didn't prevent me from having difficulty. I had a postpartum hemorrhage with my first child and was in ICU for five days. My third pregnancy was high-risk and resulted in a NICU stay.
I love being able to empower new moms during such an important time in their lives. Being the person who has helped get a baby latched for the first time or seeing a baby that has been too sick or has struggled finally get it and seeing the sheer joy on mom's face is priceless. Being a part of this special connection between mom and baby is absolutely amazing.
Postpartum, Labor&Delivery, NICU, outpatient, Children's hospital specialty clinics
My family includes my husband Sean, our four boys (Nick, Noah, Nate, and Nevin), our four chickens (Basil, Chamomile, Lemon, and Sage), and a crested gecko named Speckles.
Spending time with my family, exercising, and home projects
Pediatric Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, MS in Nutritional Sciences, emphasis in Maternal and Child Health.
I knew very early on that I wanted a career working with infants and children. As an undergraduate, I became a lactation educator, which provided me with several opportunities for internships and special studies in the field that I loved.
Once I became an RD and worked in NICU, my passion for helping moms on their breastfeeding journey continued to grow. IBCLC is the highest credential for those who specialize in lactation. I wanted to be sure to have the greatest evidence-based knowledge and experience possible in order to help my patients achieve the best outcomes.
Don't compare yourself and your baby to anyone else! Your breastfeeding journey is yours and it is different for everyone.