As we embark on this beautiful project, we’ve had the honor of connecting with remarkable mothers. We’re thrilled to introduce Jana, the winner of our first draw.
Now, we invite you to get to know her story and discover her experiences:
JANA ❥ LUNA
"My breastfeeding story started 2 years ago when my first daughter was born. I knew, even before I was pregnant, that I wanted to exclusively breastfeed my children. I was very lucky that I was able to breastfeed and, thankfully, never experienced a lack of milk supply. I felt very blessed in that regard.
My first daughter was a big and strong baby. She latched on the moment they put her on my chest and didn't let go for an hour. It was unfortunately very painful for me. Both my breasts were hurting when she was feeding and I was panicking thinking that I couldn't do this for extended periods of time. Luckily the hospital provides visits from a lactation specialist and she helped correct her latch. With her guidance the pain went away. I breastfed her for 16 months.
Last month I gave birth to our second daughter. I felt confident about being able to breastfeed her, so I didn't give it much thought until she was born. From the get-go the breastfeeding process did not come naturally to her, so it took her a few hours to latch properly to be able to feed. Shortly after her birth she contracted a cold that brought on a serious level of congestion in her sinuses which made breastfeeding her even more difficult. Now, 5 weeks later, she is finally able to latch properly and the process has become shorter and easier for the both of us.
The one thing I wish someone had told me before I became a mother was: "Breastfeeding is not instinctual. It needs to be learnt and you need to persevere through practice. So please, don't hesitate to ask for help". I say this because, even if the baby somehow latched, without proper technique, you might be putting yourself through longer feeding sessions, pain and frustration.
Despite the difficulties breastfeeding may initially present, I wholeheartedly believe that it is worth pushing through so that you may hopefully enjoy the beautiful bond unlike no other it creates between you and your baby"
Writen by Jana Elite
Posted on Instagram @barbaracrepaldiphoto on November 10, 2023.
≫ These images are part of the “Breastfeeding Moment” project by photographer Barbara Crepaldi, with the support of doula Marcela Rios. The goal of this project is to share valuable information and create beautiful memories for the featured mothers. Every two months, Barbara Crepaldi Photography will host a raffle for subscribed women. The winner will receive a studio breastfeeding shoot, and her photos and story will be featured on Instagram and here. For more information on how to participate, please visit the Instagram profile @BarbaraCrepaldiPhoto.
