Anja - Three very different feeding experiences

In this episode I’m joined by Anja; a mum of three living in Coventry UK with a passion to advocate for women’s mental health, particularly around pregnancy and childbirth. Anya studied biomedical science at University, but her true calling has been in the charitable sector, where she’s spent years fundraising and providing vital admin support for local organizations.Since the birth of her first baby, she’s been on a mission to ensure that women have the support they need to experience good mental health before, during, and after pregnancy. Her personal experiences have fueled this passion. Anya’s journey into motherhood began with a traumatic birth experience. Her first baby spent time in the special care baby unit, and despite her wishes, was given formula without her consent. She wasn’t able to hold her baby for the first 12 hours, and the start of her breastfeeding journey felt pressured and challenging. However, through determination, she transitioned from mix feeding in the hospital to exclusively breastfeeding at home. Even with complications around latch at six weeks, she successfully breastfed until her first child was 21 months old.With her second baby, the experience was somewhat smoother—though still challenging. The birth was marginally less traumatic, and Anya was able to have that precious skin-to-skin contact right away. Her breastfeeding journey with her second child was simpler, and she continued until 28 months, stopping only when she became pregnant with her third due to suffering with terrible hyperemesis.Anja’s third baby— was a beautiful, hands-off home birth, where everything seemed to fall into place. The baby latched immediately, and it’s been her simplest feeding journey so far. Anya’s story is one of resilience, learning, and growth. So, sit back, relax, and get  ready to be inspired by Anya’s incredible feeding journey.Send us Fan Mail Resources & LinksGet your FREE Milk Supply Confidence KitFeel calm, informed and confident about breastfeeding—whether you’re a parent or a professional. Download hereOnline Courses by Katie James– Pregnant or just had your baby? Start with The Feeding Couch– A midwife, doula, or health professional? Join Breastfeeding & Lactation: The FundamentalsSupport the ShowIf you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review 🎶 Music by Joseph McDadeDisclaimerThe information in this podcast is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or legal advice. While we aim for accuracy, no guarantee is made that the content is error-free or up to date. Always seek guidance from a qualified health professional for individual concerns.The Feeding Couch podcast accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on any of the content provided.