Denise,
I think you did the right thing.  We are not doing anyone a favor by
withholding information, but that does not mean we can't be compassionate
to mothers who have exceeded their resources.  Sometimes when we leave
the door open, give the mother positive reinforcement for the work that
she has already done, and understanding for what she is unable to do, she
quits for a few days and then returns to breastfeeding.  Or she is more
open to breastfeeding the next child.  Just today a mother who I had
given this type of reinforcement and understanding to about 3 mos ago
called me to tell me she's almost exclusively breastfeeding.  I thought
for sure that this mom had quit, especially when she did not return a
few gentle "how are you" phone calls.  (I did not chase her because I did
not want to make her feel pressured.)
        Please pat yourself on the back, this is a tough job.  It sounds
like you were very compassionate to this woman.  It hurts to see women
quit breastfeeding due to societal ills- abusive spouses, isolation,
relationship stress...  Been there too often,
Catherine

--
Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC  NYC  [log in to unmask]