Kelly's Breastfeeding Story 'I was a total mess with cracked bleeding nipples'
Kelly's Breastfeeding Journey
'Ok ladies, I am writing this post as I sit and reflect on the journey that I started back in June with Dr Robyn, Joanne Thompson and all the team and hope that if there is anybody who is pregnant and contemplating doing the The Thompson Method breastfeeding program, or is struggling with breastfeeding and considering doing a rescue with Robyn, my story might just help them to take the plunge and give the Thompson Method ago.
My 6th baby, Jacob, came literally "flying" into the world back in May, after successfully breastfeeding my 5 other children, I thought I knew pretty much everything there was to know, I couldn't have been more wrong.
My problems began whilst still in hospital (I didn't know that then) from not getting the 3 golden hours to being rushed to get showered and moved to another ward.
My nipples were pretty much damaged before I left the hospital after only 24 hours.
Once I was home things quickly spiralled down hill for the worse, Jacob started to take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours to latch, to completely refusing to latch, he would scream the entire time and I would cry silently beside him, thinking that I was the worst Mum.
I had cracked bleeding nipples, I was engorged and mentally I was not in a good place, and worst of all Jacob was not gaining any weight.
I quickly got in touch with my midwife, then lactation consultant x2, ECHC nurse (nobody could help) then most regretfully a tongue tie clinic, where unfortunately (for our personal journey) we had his tongue snipped, they however damaged his tongue and impacted our breastfeeding journey further.
As a nurse myself, this is still hard for me to deal with and accept still.
By this point I was literally pumping every 2 hours, I was trying to use a SNS feeding system, I was topping up from a bottle with expressed milk, I was trying to use nipple shields and I was hours away from the heartbreaking decision to quit breastfeeding, this was heart wrenching for me as I knew that Jacob was my last baby.
It was midnight one Saturday night, and I was lying on the sofa googling breastfeeding problems/solutions, and trawling through Facebook for more answers and help.
I had the can of formula sitting on the kitchen bench top, with a tear rolling down my cheek.
Then this ad came through on Facebook feed "The Thompson Method" I quickly started to scroll through the page and then onto Dr Robyns website.
I thought to myself, ok try one more thing, so I sent a SOS email, never thinking in a million years I would get a reply. By 9am Sunday morning I had a reply from the marvellous Marie, and by 11am the fabulous Joanne had me on a breastfeeding rescue FaceTime with the amazing Robyn.
Before I even started a feed with Dr Robyn I knew that we were going to be ok, just from her introduction to that we would be doing and how we were going to achieve what I wanted. I cried and cried, I had found what I had been looking for.
I straight away felt heard, loved, supported, not judged and I knew we were in safe hands.
On that first FaceTime , Robyn achieved what NO ONE else could, she got my little man latched, pain free and no screaming or refusal.
I was gobsmacked as I was a bit skeptical about the full video calling thing and I was literally ready to jump on the next flight to Brisbane from Sydney.
She explained that everything we were going to do to get my little man exclusively breastfeeding, and that through it all my mental health and my mothering instinct was the most important thing.
She shared her knowledge, compassion, her valuable time, just to name a few.
Robyn taught me how to pump and bottle feed properly while we were getting the breastfeeding established, nothing was ever too much to ask, not just of Robyn but also Joanne and the team.
So what was the outcome............ After 2 1/12- 3 weeks Robyn had Jacob exclusively breastfeeding from both breasts with no top ups from bottles, no SNS, no nipple shields and today my little chunky monkey will 6 months next week and is thriving.
I wish I had've know about Robyns online course while I was pregnant, I know I wouldn't of been through half the battles I have been and I would have saved thousands on everyone/everything else.
Robyn didn't only empower me to succeed as a mum to breastfeed, but she also ignited a fire inside of me to want to help other Mum's out there, this week I have just started training to become a breastfeeding consultant in hoping that I can help anyone else, even if its just one person.
Robyn, Joanne and the full team, I will be forever grateful for everything you done for me, there is never enough words to describe how grateful I actually I am.
PS soooooooooo sorry for the long post, its hard to condense this type of thing!!!! hugs as always xxxxxxx
Update: "We just hit 2 years of breastfeeding and as well as saying thank you to Dr Robyn I would also like to say a huge thank you to all the amazing and beautiful ladies of the breastfeeding club.
There have been times in the last year where the sleep deprivation kicked in that comes along with looking after 6 children, working, studying the list goes on that I nearly came close to stopping. However I read all your amazing posts which have been and continue to be inspiring, this along with my chunky monkey asking for his “minkies” kept me going, so thank you.
Why do so many women struggle with breastfeeding?
Many women, particularly first time mothers, are focused on their labour and birth, thinking that breastfeeding will just happen easily and naturally, because that’s what nature intended.
If this sounds like you, don’t feel bad. It’s not your fault.
Logically, it makes sense, because a woman’s body is physically designed to breastfeed.
It is one of the most natural things a woman can do.
Unfortunately, this does not end up being the case for many women.
Why? Because the breastfeeding information that you’ll be taught in hospital is inconsistent, conflicting and most importantly is out of date.
Why should you trust The Thompson Method of Breastfeeding?
Advice from well-meaning friends and family may result in you feeling pressure to appease them, but often leaves you and your baby in all sorts of trouble.
The reason why The Thompson Method is different to other sources is that it’s based on the PhD research from Dr Robyn Thompson a midwife and educator with over 45 years experience.
The evidence from her research clearly showed that painful nipple trauma was closely linked to common breastfeeding techniques that are being taught in most hospitals.
These techniques are forceful and outdated but unfortunately, many hospitals are still using and as a result, many women are experiencing nipple pain when breastfeeding.
But the Thompson Method is not just about the technique. The research uncovered so many more factors that were contributing to painful and stressful breastfeeding complications for so many women. And simply put, many of these complications can be avoided.
It’s a holistic approach and a proven breastfeeding method that’s designed to help you give birth to your baby and build a bond with your baby through pain free breastfeeding.
Dr Robyn Thompson observes a breastfeed
How is The Thompson Method Different?
The Thompson Method is more than just breastfeeding tips, it's more than just a method…. It is a movement of women to become better informed, empowered and knowledgeable about what is important when they enter labor and breastfeeding.
Based on the research, knowledge, experience and wisdom of a midwife, educator and breastfeeding expert Dr Robyn Thompson (PhD) The Thompson Method helps women reduce the risk of common complications through education and online support.
Pic: 'Rest & Digest' part of The Thompson Method.
The Thompson Method Reviews
The pregnant women, the breastfeeding mothers and the babies The Thompson Method has helped along the way teach and inspire us. Each one has a story worth sharing.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jessica R
Every woman and midwife should do this program.
Have now been feeding happily for 4 whole months thanks to Dr Thompson!! I started the program halfway through my pregnancy and with a little bit of a rocky start to feeding, I am so, so glad I was armed with what I was to get through those initial 2 weeks smoothly. I've had no pain and loads of support for when I have needed it. I cannot recommend this program enough. Every woman and midwife should do this program. It should honestly be taught in the hospital. Every partner should be familiar with it as well. Mine was and he was the perfect companion when things were tough or in those initial learning stages for me and my babe. Seriously, if you want to breastfeed successfully and empowered to make your own choices for you and your baby, do this program.
Source: Product Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Priscilla
The Thompson Method is so worth it
This program was so informative before the birth, but it was the support and guidance in those first few weeks/months after birth that it really came into its own. The help from the staff and the support and advice from other mothers going through similar issues made me feel like I wasn't alone. We started off with nipple shields which we weaned off at around 5 months. We also had issues with green, mucusey and bloody poos which ended up being a dairy issue (sorted out quickly) and also a fast and strong milk flow which caused some tummy upsets. The advice from staff was reassuring and the videos they directed me towards where always helpful and what I needed to watch.
This program is well with the money for the support alone, but it's the information that prepares you for birth and your rights and those first few weeks fter birth which is priceless. The staff were always quick to reply to any questions and having extra tips from mums going through similar situations was also a bonus. Highly recommended this program for all new mums. Knowledge is power!!! Happy feeding everyone. Photo of my little champion feeding with shields at 2.5 months and on the morning of his 1st birthday.
Source: Reviews.io
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rachel P
Practical, natural, extensively researched breastfeeding information
'Absolutely the most worthwhile decision I ever made was to join Dr Robyn's breastfeeding club. I was given practical, natural, extensively researched information and advice about how to give myself the best chance to have a successful pain free breastfeeding journey. We are 9 months exclusively breast fed and I attribute much of our success to Dr Robyn and her caring, natural approach.'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bethany T
The Thompson Method was a game changer for me
'The Thompson Method was a game changer for me. I failed to make it longer than 6 months breastfeeding my first 2 kids, but third time is a charm right? I was determined to make it to 1 year with baby #3. I put in a lot of research and kept coming across this method so I decided I was going to purchase the courses. We are currently at 10.5 months and still going strong. The team is always responsive and quick to help guide you to the right information. Dr. Robyn always answered any questions or concerns I had. Thankful for this method and helping me make it this far!'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Julie H
I tried the The Thompson Method...and it worked!
'Just want to thank Robyn Thompson, Joanne Thompson and their team for the incredible work they’ve done creating the Thompson Method program and offering their support when needed. I wholeheartedly feel that by following the Thompson method my breastfeeding journey started off on the right foot and it’s been 6 months in and still going strong. There were some rough patches in the beginning but we made it through. I had these milk bath photos taken to commemorate this milestone. I wanted to give credit where credit is due! The best thing I can do is share this knowledge and recommend this program to every pregnant mother who will listen! Thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rainbow
30 Weeks Pregnant with my first
'I’m so glad I found this thread, the positive comments are reassuring. I’m 30+3weeks pregnant with my first 😱 I’m a little nervous to say the least. All I’ve heard is that breastfeeding is really hard. One of my girlfriends has had 3 munchkins, she was unsuccessful at breastfeeding her first 2 (gave up due to cracked and bleeding nipples) but found The Thompson Method for her 3rd and she now swears by it. I thought what the heck, I’ll give It a go. I’ve just got the course and am about to get started. Wish me luck 🍀🙏'
Source: Baby Centre
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sarah M
Total game changer
The Thompson Method really helped to just cut through all the outdated information and advice that gets pressed onto new mothers! You are also actually told and reminded of all your rights and it is infact ok to say 'no I'm going to do this my way'. I also found the breastfeeding club a save haven to share my triumphs and all the down times and feel totally normal. 110% recommend to all first time mothers from beginning of pregnancy to end of breastfeeding journey whenever that may be for you
Source: Product Reviews
Read More Thompson Method Breastfeeding Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jess
The Thompson Method was a game changer for me
'I am so thankful I found The Thompson Method. I had not been successful in breastfeeding my first two children after many failed attempts (pain, low supply and mastitis to name a few). When I fell pregnant with my 3rd I knew I was going to breastfeed, I was determined. Someone had recommended the The Thompson Method of Breastfeeding in a mothers group and had great success with it. I signed up to the program when I was 30 weeks pregnant.
It has been hands down the best decision I have made. I am now 11 months EBF, no pain, beautiful supply and I couldn’t be prouder or happier. The knowledge and support you receive is unprecedented. A big shout out to Dr Robyn for creating such an amazing community and program.'
Source: ProductReview.com.au
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Emily
The Thompson Method Reviews 'Worth Every Penny'
'Dr. Robyn Thompson was a lifesaver to my breastfeeding experience with my son. I didn’t think I’d make it a week, but then I found her program. I was hesitant to spend the money, but I took a chance and found her program to be worth every penny, 100% Dr Robyn saved my breastfeeding experience! I was able to feed my son for a full year! It makes me want to have another baby just because I know how much more I’ll be prepared!'
Would you like to to learn more about how you can be fully prepared and confident about your birth and breastfeeding journey with The Thompson Method?
Join The Thompson Method Facebook Group here
Learn more about The Thompson Method Breastfeeding Course here
Download The Thompson Method Tips on Breastfeeding here
Read Fenella's Breastfeeding Story 'How The Thompson Method helped me overcome the fear the hospital had instilled in me' here
Pamela's story on successfully breastfeeding her third set of twins can be viewed here
Zanna's story on successfully overcoming breastfeeding pain can be viewed here
Joanne's story on successfully breastfeeding after 3 c-sections can be viewed here
Sarah's story on overcoming low milk supply can be viewed here
Emily's story on successfully overcoming forceful techniques can be viewed here
Read More Thompson Method Breastfeeding Reviews here
Watch The Thompson Method Breastfeeding course reviews here
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