Mel - Many off putting messages, yet breastfeeding and bed sharing for 18 months as she trusted herself deeply

I’m joined today by Mel, who takes us through how she navigated early struggles when her milk took almost a week to come in, and the overwhelming pressure from professionals to supplement with formula. A lactation consultant even told her she might never be able to breastfeed at all as her boobs were too small– so how did these seeds of doubt impact Mel’s feeding experience?With family doubting her supply, she stood firm, trusting her body and her baby. Bed-sharing from day one became a lifeline, despite the judgment, as she woke every two hours—sometimes even every 30 minutes—to keep feeding on demand.As her baby grew, she kept going, following her instincts despite feeling the pressure to night wean by 12 months, and her own mum telling her that breast milk wasn’t beneficial past a year. Mel is still breastfeeding on demand at 18 months, and aiming for two years. We’ll also be talking about the societal rush to push babies toward independence far too soon. Why are we so quick to be separate from them, to make them sleep alone, to expect them to self-soothe before they’re ready? As Mel says, this isn’t spoiling them—it’s setting them up to be secure, functioning human beings.And importantly, we discuss how framing motherhood as a season—with its ups and downs, challenges, and joys—can help explain to others that even though we may be tired and stretched thin at times, it’s not something we want to change. It’s simply part of the journey, one that twists and turns, but one that we can embrace and even enjoy along the way.All this and lots more invaluable insights. 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.