In regard to the mom who lost a baby to "breastfeeding failure" a year ago
and is expecting a new baby next month:

You said this mother was passionate about breastfeeding and refused to give
any supplements last time.  This time she plans to formula feed.

I worry when people set such rigid rules for themselves.  As mothers, we
need to learn to bend, to be flexible, to adjust our ideas to what is
needed at the moment.

I think the tragedy is that she was left without the supports all new
mothers need.  I think I'd talk with her privately outside of class.
Listen to her feelings about the last experience and what she really wants
for this one.   I would guess that if she could be offered a true
breastfeeding support system (like an LC to follow her on a daily basis
until things are going well, a truly breastfeeding-knowledgeable and
supportive physician, and a LLL or other support group to be part of), she
might resolve her loss best with a positive breastfeeding experience this
time.  Something fueled her passion for breastfeeding last time.  She
should not be left to struggle alone again.  What does she think would help
her feel best supported and safest with this new baby?

And for sure, a very careful history would be needed to assess for factors
that led to the situation with the first baby not receiving adequate milk.

 In your class, I'd go over very carefully how to know how babies are
getting enough milk.  Others in this class may be frightened by what
happened to this mom, as well as by all the media accounts of breastfed
babies starving to death.

Anne Altshuler, RN, MS, IBCLC and LLL leader in Madison, Wisconsin
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