Breastfeeding and the #662 Movement
It feels like an absolute eternity since I have worked with breastfeeding women so now feels like a pretty good time to bring myself up to date with the latest research on everything breastfeeding! During my doula training I came across an amazing midwife based in Melbourne, Amberley Harris, who runs a breastfeeding consultancy - Maternal Instincts by Amberley. I am currently glued to her ‘breastfeeding for professionals’ course!
Amberley has created the 662 Framework, which aims to support women to reach the 6 week milestone for breastfeeding and then to go on to exclusively breastfeed their baby until 6 months of age and then complementary feed (a combination of solid foods and breast milk) their baby until they are 2 years old. Amberley states that 85% of Australian mothers abandon exclusive breastfeeding before their baby is 5 months old and acknowledges that the support for women on their breastfeeding journey is woefully lacking in our maternity care system. For many women, breastfeeding does not come easily and this can have a snowball effect of negative feelings and emotions, not to mention having to wade through a mountain of conflicting advice coming from midwives, well-meaning family and friends and even the bloody next-door neighbour! I absolutely love this quote from Amberley:
“Breastfeeding really is a learned art...much like learning any form of artistry, it takes patience, practice and the right support.”
To support yourself on your own breastfeeding journey, arm yourself with quality breastfeeding information during pregnancy and have a good support network in place prior to the birth so that you have a trusted source of information at your fingertips if you ever need it. My personal top tip would be to find a lactation consultant in your area who does home visits - so much more convenient than having to set off on a mission to attend a clinic appointment when all you want to do is stay in your PJs and enjoy those precious moments with your newborn in the comfort of your own surroundings.
As a doula, I can put together a postpartum support package to suit your needs, complete with breastfeeding support if that is something you feel would be beneficial for you - just get in touch using the information below to find out more. Through her website, Amberley offers online courses, breastfeeding support groups and a free masterclass where she shares her top 5 tips for breastfeeding success. Click here to be redirected to the Maternal Instincts by Amberley website.
“Breastfeeding is absolutely achievable with the right support” - Amberley Harris
My name is Mel Howells and I am a doula who has trained with the Doula Training Academy. Every pregnancy and birth are different, and no two women will experience the same journey to motherhood. The philosophy which underpins my services acknowledges every woman’s uniqueness and my work is tailored to meet your every need. If this resonates with you and you want to learn more about what I offer, please feel free to send me an email at mel@serenebirths.com.au or reach out to me via social media on the links below. I would be honoured to walk alongside you on your birth journey. If you would like to find out more about our offerings, please click here for packages or contact us.