Nurturing confidence: How one mom found empowerment through breastfeeding support

World Breastfeeding Week, observed August 1–7, was established in 1992 to raise public awareness and support for breastfeeding. While some assume breastfeeding comes naturally, studies suggest that challenges with breastfeeding are common. In one study, more than 70% of study participants had difficulty breastfeeding, and most of the issues arose in the first month of their child’s life.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, with continued breastfeeding along with introducing appropriate complementary foods for up to two years of age or longer.

“Breastmilk is the ideal food for infants since it has all the essential nutrients a baby needs and contains antibodies, which may help protect against many common childhood illnesses,” explains Jill Burman, a certified lactation consultant at Advocate Health Care. “Unfortunately, breastfeeding is not yet fully normalized in the United States, and we need to do more to empower women to feel confident about breastfeeding.”

For Tiffany Weber, a mom of three, World Breastfeeding Week is a powerful reminder of her journey. After delivering twins prematurely at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Weber overcame early challenges with Burman’s instruction and donor breastmilk. She found continued support through Baby Bistro, a weekly breastfeeding support group. Weber returned to the group following the birth of her third child, Kammy.

“After I went to Baby Bistro for the first time, I didn’t miss any weeks until the twins graduated,” shares Weber. “I started going with Kammy one week after she was born because I was so excited to go back. It is such an incredible postpartum resource.”

“Being a new mom is a big transition, whether it’s your first baby or your fourth,” concludes Burman. “At Baby Bistro, we want to help moms make meaningful memories. It’s so important to uplift and encourage them and remind them they’re doing an amazing job.”

Are you looking for an OB-GYN provider? Find one near you: Illinois | Wisconsin