As part of our #HERstory series, we're featuring moms who are lactation specialists for National Breastfeeding Awareness Month. Check our blog for all of the interviews, and keep reading to meet Penny Merrel, OB Case Management at Martha Jefferson Hospital in the Lactation Services. At Sentara Martha Jefferson, International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are available to new parents every day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Their lactation consultants also provide one-on-one outpatient lactation consults to assist you and your baby with successful breastfeeding after you’ve gone home. Below, Penny shares some of #HERstory about motherhood and breastfeeding.
Are you a parent? If so, how did that journey shape your career path?
Hello! I am a Lactation Consultant at Martha Jefferson Hospital and have been in this role for 10 years. It is my distinct honor to help breastfeeding families. It is a very precious and vulnerable time, especially for Mothers. I am amazed and humbled by the overwhelming response I get from Breastfeeding mothers. "I hope I can breast feed," "if it works out, not sure I will make milk." I've always wondered what makes women doubt their ability to nurture and nourish their baby. Then I remembered, I too said I didn't think I could do it! I am the proud mother of two adult children (and someday, I want to be called G-Ma).
My initial introduction to Women's Health was focused on Labor and Delivery, another blessing to be a part of helping a family birth (I cried at every delivery), such joy!! Personally, I had a gentle time nursing my first child, smooth sailing. I loved it. We both thrived. I nursed my second baby as well. I loved that too but struggled some with life and didn't nurse as long as I would have hoped. I returned to nursing as a Home Visiting nurse with Martha Jefferson and taught childbirth classes (for the next twenty years). I really valued the service I provided to these women. We met them in their homes and in their space. My own journey through parenthood certainly enhanced my understanding of the tall task of being a mother (sometimes it's hard and sometimes it's really hard, exhausting, demanding, lonely. And the JOY is indescribable and overflowing.
What are some misconceptions about breastfeeding that you come across with clients and/or the media and wish you could help clear up? What about misconceptions of working with a lactation consultant (e.g. expense, pressure to keep breastfeeding, etc.)?
Some misconception I hear about breastfeeding is that it is natural and intuitive. I often say to parents, it's like learning the tango. It would take me a lot of lessons and practice to perfect the steps. I think especially, a new mother comes to the moment with ideas it will be easy or it will be hard. I believe it is a matter of perspective. Understanding those first few days is about discovery, learning the steps to the dance, learning what is normal, and how to ease into the moment (and not let your head get in the way). There are some challenges. Mothers pressure themselves and then there is pressure from others. As I said, life happens, and sometimes we need to adjust. The journey for a mother includes listening, learning, adjusting and discovering her own path.
Most know that breastmilk is alive and provides the absolute best nutrition for babies. I encourage moms to surround themselves with support, connect with other moms who can share the journey and seek help when times are tough. I see my position as one who guides and teaches and encourages self-exploration until a mother can identify what is best for them, in this moment of time.
Is there anything expecting moms can do to better help prepare for the breastfeeding journey (if they chose to/are able to)?
Preparing for breastfeeding happens as the pregnancy progresses. Mothers discover how their body is changing and preparing for the milk to come. Taking a breastfeeding class is helpful as well as surrounding yourself with Mothers who are already nursing. Since we often no longer live with our sisters and extended families, we don't have that exposure. I suggest the book, Breastfeeding Made Simple by Nancy Mohrbacher. As well as Working and Breastfeeding Made Simple. A great resource online is "First droplets.com," a short video with great visuals and gentle reminders of those first few days. A one-on-one appointment with a Lactation Consultant can ease your concerns, identify strategies and offer recommendations. La Leche League is another great resource. For those who are struggling with breastfeeding, don't struggle alone. Enjoy your baby! Know your limits and be open to the lessons life it may provide.
What are words of support you can provide to someone who is really struggling with breastfeeding, both physically and mentally?
My words of advice are, allow yourself time to discover your baby and this new chapter. Breastfeeding does not define you as a good mother. We are human. Embrace the gift you have been given, seek strategies and options, and above all else, be kind to yourself. Perhaps, like me, you too will find strength for the journey and joy that flows from challenges along the way.