When Breastfeeding Doesn’t Work Out – Ryde-Kuringgai Australian Breastfeeding Association

Hi ladies, the Ryde-Kuringgai Australian Breastfeeding Association Group has a bit of an unusual meeting coming up.

Normally we sit around and talk about boobs and milk and babies and sleep, and then eat cake.

But I’ve been inspired by recent convos here and elsewhere to try a new topic – When Breastfeeding Doesn’t Work Out.

We know that many mums want to breastfeed. Many start off breastfeeding, but sometimes (despite our wishes, hopes and efforts), it doesn’t work out. Or it works out differently to what you imagined it would.

I know there are mums locally who carry big feelings about their breastfeeding experience. I know how hard it is to catch a moment in our busy lives to process stuff like this. And I know how later events, such as the birth of your next baby, or a conversation with a friend, can trigger a painful flashback.

This meeting offers a chance to chat and debrief about your feeding experiences. We will have ABA counsellors to talk with one-on-one, or you can listen as we chat as a group. Whatever works for you. And please know that our counsellors provide unconditional support, regardless of parenting choices – a key part of our training is in meeting mums where they are at, and acknowledging the mum as the expert in what is best for her baby.

Also at this particular meeting we will be trying something new by having a room for mums to breastfeed in – so if you’ve avoided coming to an ABA meeting because it’s still painful to see a mum happily breastfeeding, you won’t need to today.

The details: Thursday 4th May 10-12noon at Vanessa’s home in Melrose Park. All welcome. Feel free to invite a friend, family member, neighbour etc. Don’t worry about being late, or leaving early. Full event details here: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/…/when-breastfeeding-doesn…

If you can’t make this meeting day, but this email has resonated with you, our Turramurra meeting is happening on Wednesday the 3rd of May 9.30-11am at Cameron Park. There will be a breastfeeding counsellor at this meeting too, to chat with. RSVP details here: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/…/eve…/breastfeeding-park-1

And if you can’t make either meeting, please consider calling the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 1800 686 268 to debrief with one of the trained counsellors there. It’s free, and it’s worth the investment of your time (and courage) to bring a bit more peace into your life.

Happy National Mothering Week beautiful mamas