breast feeding help; is it helpful?

So I get paid well to do what I love! I am very blessed. I have always supported breast feeding, and I am very comfortable with new moms. But I often wonder if I over-help. Sure first time moms need someone to show them how to get a good latch and teach them about breast care, and diaper counts. But, is there something to be said for letting them figure it out? I had a lovely nurse with my first child who left me shocked but properly latched when she grabbed my breast and popped it in my sons mouth. It was wonderful that he was nursing but the next time he was hungry I still didn't know what I was doing. It goes against my nature to sit back and watch a new mom struggle, so I try to balance instruction and stepping back for a few moments. What are your experiences? did you have a helpful nurse? did you know what to do when you got home? Did your nurse ask for your permission before grabbing your boob?!?!?! (I always do, and have never been told no) Would you feel comfortable telling your nurse you didn't want to be touched?

Nurse V. Patient

A great friend and mentor of mine is currently facing surgery to rule out ovarian cancer. This wonderful lady was my preceptor when I was a student, a info resource, sounding board, and a shoulder to cry on when I was a new nurse. I will be there for her, and make sure she is well taken care of. But that poses the question, how do you go from nurse to patient? Every health care provider does things just a little different, so how do you step back and let some one care for you, "their way"?

soon to be and new "Dad" Comments

so how long will it take? 

I want to help her, but she hates me!

why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free (exhausted new dad, encouraging his wife to breast feed)

He looks just like me....and Yoda

Dad: how do I get her to stop crying? Nurse: is she hungry? Dad: She ate right after the baby was born

I have the privilege  of assisting women through the labor/birth/early postpartum period. This is something I am passionate about, and I love my patients. While I dont take care of males as patients, unless they are newborns, there is nothing I enjoy more than an excited new dad. Watching a grown man cry like a baby when seeing his child for the first time, is definitely the icing on the cake. 

what a week

So this was my second week at my new hospital. I LOVE this place. They totally support breast feeding, and actually have enough staff to take care of patients. Its nice to only have to drive 20 minutes as well. I feel very blessed to be a part of such a great organization. There is even a "breast feeding welcome" sign in the cafeteria. The food is even good :)