Lattes and Latitude: 6 Tips to Help You Win at Breastfeeding

This January, I closed a significant chapter in my Mommyhood journey. There's a part of me that can't believe I'm writing this, but, here it goes...

After 19 months, I stopped breastfeeding.

I never imagined breastfeeding beyond a year, nor did I imagine writing about such a personal experience in a public forum. However, I've grown comfortable with discussing breastfeeding and discourage others from referring to breastfeeding as a taboo topic.

It's important to know I don't judge women who refrain from breastfeeding or who nurse for a different duration of time. We're all trying to be the best Moms we can. Sometimes physical or personal circumstances impact breastfeeding and each woman's decision is hers. As long as your baby is fed and cared for you're doing an outstanding job, Mama! {{hugs}}

While pregnant with G, I set out to breastfeed for one year. If I came up short, I knew he would be just fine. But we did it and I consider this my greatest accomplishment as a Mom. I learned the importance of sacrificing self comfort for my child's needs. To be 100% responsible for nourishment is a monumental task.

As G grew, and solid foods were incorporated into his diet, I felt pieces of weight lift from my shoulders. He was getting much-needed nutrition from alternate sources and I was so grateful the process went smoothly. When Genti turned one, I continued nursing due to two upcoming international vacations. Breastfeeding would provide the comfort he needed on long plane rides and in different enviornments. Afterwards, I started to drop daytime pumping and feeds.

I knew G was ready to transition when the dreaded 18-month sleep regression started. It was brutal. His 4-5 cries a night weren't because he "needed milk," he was just requesting to be pacified. We were both sleep deprived and, finally, I waived the white flag. Two nights later, he was done and sleeping through the night. I miss our quiet time together, but, wow, I am finally rested!

Since I've become a Mom, I've discovered a sincere love of swapping tips and tricks with my girlfriends and fellow Moms. If I were sitting with them over a glass of wine while wearing an over-sized sweatshirt and yoga pants, this is exactly what I'd share:

Ask for Help: Blessed are the women who dedicate their lives to lactation support. I did not shy away from the expertise of Lactation Consultants at my local hospital and G's pediatrician's office. In fact, I scheduled an appointment with a LC before my maternity leave wrapped. Together, we discussed my pumping plan and she provided invaluable support.

Hydrate: The more hydrated you are, the better! I noticed a serious drop in my supply if I skipped my water intake. I would drink three 24-ounce servings of water at work and another at home thanks to my large Tervis Tumbler. Hydration is so easy to overlook, but it makes a significant difference.

Establish a Pumping Schedule: When I returned to work, and G was completely dependent on milk, I established a strict pumping schedule. Every day, I scheduled three pump sessions and booked a Mom's Room (the company I worked for had amazing, clean rooms for Moms complete with refrigerators, sinks and comfy chairs). I rescheduled conflicting meetings and updated attendees if I needed a delayed start or an early departure. To be candid, my work was important, but not as important as taking care of my baby. As he grew, I eased up and moved my pump sessions to accommodate my workload. Thanks to a consistent routine, I successfully maintained my milk supply for a year.

Genti visiting the Mom's Room

Develop a Storing and Cleaning Routine: For months, I cleaned and sterilized pump parts and prepped the next day's bottles. This process required some go-to products including Medela Steam Bags, Boon Grass Dryer Rack, Boon Bottle Brush & Lansinoh Storage Bags. When I came home from work, I would smother G in kisses and promptly kick-off the cleaning process. If I waited until the late evening or following morning, I loathed myself. Cleaning pump parts isn't exactly manual labor, but it's cumbersome, and can be an annoying way to start or end the day. Committing to a routine kept me sane.

Travel Away From Baby With Ease: If you're traveling without baby, Milk Stork is the ultimate lifesaver! Milk Stork is the first and only breast milk delivery service for traveling moms, providing no-fuss, refrigerated, express shipping or easy toting of your breast milk to your baby back home. Prior to your departure you simply "plan your trip" on the Milk Stork website. After the trip is planned, your box is sent with pre-printed shipping labels.

I used Milk Stork on a business trip to California. When I checked into my hotel, the box containing storage bags, ice packs, labels and packing tape was waiting for me. All I did was pump, assemble the box and leave it with concierge who coordinated the shipment. Within hours, my milk arrived back home, fully chilled, ready for G. The cost ranges from $79-$159. Thankfully, my one-and-only trip away from G was work related and my previous employer paid for two boxes and shipments. I was so grateful!

My Milk Stork shipment complete with a personal love note

Prep for Travel: I've traveled a significant amount of miles while breastfeeding, so I've nailed the packing list. Preparation is key, Mama! In my carry-on, I packed extra storage bags, steam bags, a new bottle cleaner and a spare set of pump parts in case my luggage was lost. I secretly dreaded breastfeeding on a crowded plane but, quite frankly, I had no choice but to get over it. Thankfully, the Bravada Nursing Bra is super comfortable and helped keep things discreet. For added privacy, consider packing a scarf or a breastfeeding cover to keep you and baby comfy. Prior to an international trip, I purchased a Medela Manual Pump. I feared losing my luggage or encountering issues with the adapter on my standard pump. I brought both and the manual ended up being a lifesaver! I only used it a few times, but it was easier than schlepping around my standard pump.