Zanele’s Story - trusting knowledgeable breastfeeding mothers the 2nd time around

It's been 7 years since my first contact with  La Leche League. I remember well how that Leader supported and empowered me. 

My breastfeeding journey was very different with each of my children. With my firstborn, I stopped breastfeeding at seven months. Looking back, I realise I lacked confidence and the correct information. I constantly questioned whether I was producing enough milk and whether my baby was getting enough nutrition. There was so much conflicting information, given to me by different people, that I found myself doubting my instincts.

The second time around I was determined to follow a different course and my experience was completely transformed because of the incredible support I once again received from La Leche League. I still needed guidance and reassurance when challenges came up, but this time whenever I had questions or faced challenges, I knew I could reach out and I trusted the information. The encouragement, practical advice, and evidence-based information I received gave me the confidence to keep going. I never felt judged, only supported and empowered.

As a result, my youngest breastfed until she decided she was ready to stop, which was at around 20 months. I loved the closeness that breastfeeding created between me and my baby. It was more than just feeding; it became our time of bonding. I also loved watching my daughter thrive - she truly enjoyed my breast milk.  Seeing her grow and remain healthy, gave me confidence that my body was giving her exactly what she needed. It was incredibly rewarding to know that I could nourish her in that way.

There were still times of self-doubt, especially in the beginning. I also found breastfeeding physically demanding at times. There were moments of exhaustion, particularly during the night, and breastfeeding requires a great deal of commitment. Those early weeks can feel overwhelming when you’re still recovering and adjusting to life with a newborn. I am so grateful, however, to La Leche League for walking alongside me. Before reaching out to La Leche League South Africa, I received advice from family, friends, and healthcare professionals. While everyone meant well, the advice often differed, which sometimes left me feeling more confused than reassured. 

What made LLLSA different was that I never felt dismissed. Whenever I reached out, I received information, practical suggestions, and, most importantly, encouragement. They empowered me to make informed decisions. That support gave me the confidence to trust myself as a mother. Sometimes all a mother needs is someone who listens, reassures her, and reminds her that she can do this. That made all the difference for me.

I believe every breastfeeding journey is unique, and every mother deserves to feel supported rather than judged. The right information at the right time can completely change a mother’s experience. That experience taught me that confidence grows when mothers are surrounded by compassionate, knowledgeable people who walk alongside them. I will always be grateful for the role LLLSA played in helping me enjoy such a positive breastfeeding journey.