This subject is pretty near and dear to my heart since I've had extended
family in my house for the past two weeks.  (That's another story).  I'd
recommend the mom getting rid of the family members who are not supportive
of her desire to breastfeed.  (You folks know me too well-- I tell it like
it is)  The emotional toll these relatives are taking on her is probably
far worse than any help around the home that they are providing.  She's
about to hit an emotional rollercoaster-her hormones are plummeting and her
milk will be coming in soon.  Having people around who bash her abilities
to nourish and nurture her baby only compounds the problem.  We all know
the #1 concern moms have-am I making enough milk?  Tell her about how she
can tell if she's making enough milk, in front of the relatives.

While a visit at home tells you a lot, perhaps a couple of phone calls
daily for moral support and follow-up would help her.  You would also be
able to discuss things with her without them hovering over her.  Can you
arrange a visit when they aren't there?

Fish and guests stink after three days-Benjamin Franklin {I think it went
like that)

Oh, by the way, I'm back.  Starting to get the hand of e-mail and nursing
at the same time and am ready to have my house to myself again.

Maurenne Griese, RNC, BSN, CCE, CBE
Birth and Breastfeeding Resources  http://www.childbirth.org/bbfr
Manhattan, KS  USA
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