Although National Breastfeeding Month was recognized last month, the conversation about, celebration, and importance of breastfeeding continues everyday. As we all know, "Fed is Best", but Shiry shared some great information with us if you're interested in breastfeeding, or know someone who is. Shiry is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and mother to twins boys and a daughter. When she experienced many breastfeeding issues following the birth of her children, she sought help from a lactation consultant, changing her experience completely. She fell in love with breastfeeding, and felt called to help other mothers who were struggling. Today Shiry supports moms during their breastfeeding journey, helping them to reach their breastfeeding goals, their way.
How did you first get started in this field?
I was in tech before, and I felt when I gave birth to my daughter, everything changed. Something in me changed, and I really wanted to do something else. I had so many issues with breastfeeding her, I guess that's what made me think I wanted to help other moms overcome their issues and be successful.
What do you think is the most common misconception about breastfeeding that you've encountered?
That it should hurt, that's the main one. They wait, and they wait, and they wait, and they suffer...but it shouldn't hurt. There is also a misconception that moms think if they don't pump, they won't have enough milk. Those two I see a lot, obviously there are many, many others.
If someone can't breastfeed for one child, is there a chance they can for another?
Yes, of course! Every pregnancy is different. Every delivery is different. Every child is different. The mom is different with each birth.
What is your best advice for a new mom who wants to breastfeed?
My best advice is to get some information before you give birth, so you know what to expect. The first few days are very, very intense, learning how the baby should act, and what happens in your body. Also if something goes wrong, one should know not to wait on something that shouldn't be happening. I would call somebody and get the help I need, as fast as I need, because then it's the most efficient way.
What advice would you give to someone who's nervous about breastfeeding in public?
I think you just have to do it one step at a time. A lot of the time, I will suggest to moms who are really nervous to leave the house, just go one step at a time. Just go near your house, do a short walk, and if your baby starts giving you signs of hunger, find like a little spot near your house. Just do it one step at a time. Some moms don't ever feel comfortable breastfeeding in public, and they cover themselves. And that's fine!
What would you like more people to know about breastfeeding in general?
That it's natural, and babies know what to do. We don't, but the babies do. Also, to trust our babies and to trust ourselves, because as moms, we have that gut feeling when things are wrong. So, mostly trust ourselves and our babies.
Do you have any favorite breastfeeding products?
I'm not into products so much. To be honest, I think most of them are not needed. The only thing that comes to mind is that if a mom needs to pump, the pumping bra. The ones that hold your flanges so you don't need to sit with two hands. The rest I really don't think are needed.
The formula shortage was unexpected and scary for many parents. What would your advice be if it should happen again?
It was very scary. In that case, I suggested milk donations. There are a lot of moms that produce tons of milk and would like to donate their milk. Many moms are healthy, but of course, you definitely should ask questions. All moms get blood work when they're pregnant, so you can ask for the most recent blood work. I do think it's safer than making homemade formula. I saw tons of recipes online, and you cannot know exactly what to put in there exactly. You cannot put in there what is needed. Especially if it's a newborn, I think it's very, very risky. Buying imported formula is also a good option, it just takes a while. In case of a shortage, it's important to just keep positive. Get support from your friends and family. I don't think getting tons of formula is a good idea, because it does go bad.
For more information on Shiri and her services, check out https://www.shiryweinstein.com/
