How support helps mom transform breastfeeding struggles into a success story

Naomi Timmerman’s journey from breastfeeding challenges to a bountiful supply is a testament to maternal resilience. 

This Holland mother faced significant obstacles nursing her preterm baby, but with determination and support from Holland Hospital, she triumphed. Not only did she achieve exclusive breastfeeding, but she also donated 10 gallons of milk to local milk banks, turning her experience into a source of hope for other families.

Throughout National Breastfeeding Month in August, Holland Hospital emphasizes the crucial role support groups play in a mother’s breastfeeding journey.

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the ideal way to nourish newborns, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that contribute to a baby’s health and development. Holland Hospital supports new mothers through this critical stage by offering a weekly support group, Breastfeeding Connections.

Courtesy Naomi TimmermanHolland Hospital supports new mothers through this critical stage by offering a weekly support group, Breastfeeding Connections.

Supportive space

“I didn’t know what to expect at first,” Timmerman says. “I planned on breastfeeding right away and knew it wasn’t going to be easy. It’s a private thing that can be tough to ask for help with, but it’s so worth it to get that bond with your child.”

Created with that concept in mind, Breastfeeding Connections is offered as long as families need support. The group provides a welcoming, supportive space for mothers to connect with other new parents, ask questions, and receive guidance from experienced, board-certified lactation consultants. During the sessions, parents also have the option to get their baby’s weight checked and schedule appointments for additional support if needed.

“I was fully on board to come to the breastfeeding support group,” Timmerman says. “Every time I went, they taught me something new. Whether it was positioning or working on a better latch, they were super helpful and encouraging.”

Beyond the baby-mother bond, breastfeeding offers many advantages, including essential nutrients and antibodies that strengthen a baby’s immune system. However, the early weeks can often present challenges for new mothers. Research shows a decline in breastfeeding within the first few months for U.S. moms, with common reasons for stopping including low milk supply, latching difficulties, concerns about the baby’s satisfaction, and nipple soreness.

Fortunately, many of these challenges can be addressed with proper guidance. Recognizing this, Holland Hospital’s Boven Birth Center prioritizes hands-on education to empower mothers for long-term breastfeeding success. Their lactation support starts in the hospital with personalized coaching and continues after discharge.

“It was slow and challenging at first, but about four months later, I was nursing him one day and thought, ‘Wow, this isn’t hard anymore,’” Timmerman reflects. “The support I received during Breastfeeding Connections got me from nursing twice a day to nursing all day and switching to nursing at night when I was previously bottle feeding.”

Courtesy Naomi TimmermanThroughout National Breastfeeding Month in August, Holland Hospital emphasizes the crucial role support groups play in a mother’s breastfeeding journey.

Continuing care

Sarah Moelker, a lactation consultant at Holland Hospital, says Breastfeeding Connections provides mothers with guidance, confidence, and support to meet their breastfeeding goals. 

“We are there to assist with a breastfeeding session and to answer specific questions the mother has. Our classes offer a special way to encourage mothers along the Lakeshore by providing a continuation of care beyond the hospital stay and offering support throughout their breastfeeding journey.”

Joining a breastfeeding support group offers a wealth of benefits for new mothers, including:

• Receiving expert guidance as board-certified lactation consultants offer personalized advice and solutions to breastfeeding challenges.
• Offering peer support by connecting with other mothers on a similar journey, fostering a sense of community and reducing feelings of isolation.
• Boosting confidence by sharing successes and overcoming challenges together, empowering participants to persevere in their goals.
• Reducing stress through a supportive environment that promotes a positive experience.

“Get help. It’s worth it,” Timmerman urges. “It was encouraging to know I wasn’t the only one struggling. It doesn’t have to be difficult. Even going just once, you will want to go more. The lactation consultants were super encouraging and kind. It was such a great experience.”

Breastfeeding Connections is held weekly from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in the Holland Hospital Conference Rooms. No registration is required, and drop-ins are welcome. More information about Holland Hospital’s classes is available online at hollandhospital.org/classes.