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The first week in August is World Breastfeeding Week and we’re here to highlight Coast Guard Active Duty servicemembers and spouses stationed in #Alaska.
Pictured is Lt. Kristen Zelman, Sector Anchorage, with her (then) 6-month-old daughter, Brooke. Zelman breastfed Brooke for 16 months.
"Breastfeeding is more than just food and builds upon maternal instincts. It not only gave her the physical nutrients (fat content vitamins and antibodies) she needed but also was a major part of mental and emotional development to include bonding, sense of security and the relationship built during critical developmental milestones. To me, it brought me back to what mammals are supposed to do; nurse, co-sleep and respond to each other’s needs on demand, without the influence of societal pressure and norms. Brooke and I took to feeding easily and just kept our journey going until she was no longer interested.
"I encourage expecting moms to do research beforehand; read books, purchase basic breastfeeding/pumping supplies, and contact a local lactation consultant for hands-on information. After birth, give nursing a fair try and see how it works for you and baby. Followup meetings with a lactation consultant can help you navigate through various challenges. Don’t put yourself through more stress or mom guilt if breastfeeding ultimately doesn’t work out. Advocate for yourself and don’t take criticism (from both sides of the fence.)
"My experience as an Active Duty member in the Coast Guard was very positive with coworkers and friends supporting me throughout. With my personality, I placed personal pressure on myself trying to balance the 'right time' between work and family planning. It is something I try to reframe internally but hasn’t been the easiest for me."
| Date Taken: | 08.02.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 01.12.2022 12:32 |
| Photo ID: | 7008209 |
| VIRIN: | 210802-G-GO217-001 |
| Resolution: | 333x500 |
| Size: | 25.82 KB |
| Location: | JUNEAU, ALASKA, US |
| Web Views: | 158 |
| Downloads: | 5 |
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