By Hui Ling Ooi, Certified Lactation Counsellor (SKM-4)
My breastfeeding journey lasted six years across two children. It shaped the way I support mothers today, but it began with me learning as I went, just like many first-time mums.
When I had my first daughter in 2015, I was completely clueless about breastfeeding. Looking back, I wish I had known where to find individual guidance sooner.
These are the lessons I carry into my work as a lactation counsellor.
We spend time choosing clothes, nappies and somewhere for the baby to sleep. It helps to prepare for feeding questions too.
Before birth, identify a trained lactation counsellor, midwife or healthcare professional with breastfeeding expertise. Save their contact details and find out how to arrange an appointment.
The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding counselling during pregnancy and after birth. You do not need to wait for a crisis to seek it.
One question worth adding to your preparation list is: “Who can I contact if feeding feels difficult?”
Having breastfed before gives a mother experience. It does not mean every new feeding situation will be familiar.
I approach each mother and baby with questions: What is happening during feeds? What feels difficult? What does she want help with?
Her goals, health and circumstances matter. Advice becomes useful when it fits her situation, rather than expecting her to fit a particular routine.
If feeding is persistently painful, your nipples are injured or you are worried your baby is not feeding well, seek individual help.
A feeding assessment is more useful than being told to try harder. A lactation counsellor can explore concerns within their scope and refer for medical assessment when needed.
Asking early is a reasonable part of learning. You do not have to reach exhaustion before your concerns deserve attention.
A plan may sound straightforward until it meets a mother’s actual day: feeding, expressing, caring for another child and trying to eat somewhere in between.
When discussing options, I also want to know what feels manageable and what practical help is available. Her wellbeing belongs in those decisions.
I explore everyday support for mothers further in “A Mother Needs Care Too.”
The length of my breastfeeding journey is not a standard another woman needs to match.
I want mothers to feel comfortable sharing their goals and limits, including when those change. My role is to help them understand their options and find an approach that considers both mother and baby.
I bring lived experience and professional training to that conversation, while recognising when a doctor or another specialist needs to be involved.
What I most want mothers to take from my story is permission to ask questions and receive care throughout their own journey.
Through KindTouch, I offer individual lactation counselling in Penang during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Message me on WhatsApp to ask about support and appointments. For urgent concerns, use medical services; WhatsApp is not an emergency service.
This article shares personal experience and general education. Individual feeding concerns need assessment.
I’m here to help you find the right support and guidance.
