'Free the Nipple ' Series 5
Open & real conversations about the joys & challenges of feeding a tiny milk monster
Today’s chat is with Victoria Lomaloma - mum to Nevaeh (2 years) + Rumi (5 months)
What was your breastfeeding journey like with Nevaeh?
I had no issues with Nevaeh until we hit the 3 month mark and my supply suddenly dropped.
It’s not something people really talk about, so it caused me a lot of anxiety at the time not knowing why it had dropped or whether it would come back.
Was I doing something wrong? Was this normal? Was my baby getting enough milk?
I remember a friend saying ‘breastfeeding is a mindf**k’ — and isn’t that the truth! Even when things are going well, we’re constantly thinking about it. It’s a big part of the mental load we carry as mums.
After finding some good support in the way of supplements (fenugreek tablets and lactation blends), I managed to get my supply back on track and I breastfed Nevaeh until she was 11 months. That’s when she started to bite!
I used the Hydrogel discs and persevered for a while, but she kept biting.
So that was that. It was time to stop. After we did, she never once asked for it or put up a fight with the bottle. We switched to formula for a few months before transitioning to soy milk (as we’re vegan), and we were both really happy.
I know a lot of people feel sad when their feeding journey comes to an end, but I was ready. I’d dedicated 11 good months to breastfeeding, so I was ready to have a little more freedom for myself. As many women know, it can be hard always being on the clock and needing to be home at a certain time, or not being able to have a drink with friends.
And now with Rumi?
I was excited to fall pregnant again with Rumi, and I also felt more prepared as I knew what was coming. I started taking lactation blends 3 weeks before I gave birth to help things along.
We’re currently 5 months in and feeding has been plain sailing — she latches well and I havent had any pain. Rumi is still with us in our room. She’s quite a snuggly baby and I find it easier to get up and feed while she’s right there beside me.
There was a slight dip in my supply at 3 months (like I experienced with Nevaeh), but I was more prepared for it this time.
Both girls have been really efficient feeders and I’ve managed to keep my supply up, despite only feeding one side at a time. We’ve had some challenges here and there, but overall, both breastfeeding journeys have been great. I’ve been lucky!
What are your thoughts on the support available for breastfeeding mothers?
Fortunately, I haven't needed much support myself. My mother-in-law happens to be an ex-Plunket nurse, so I call on her whenever I have questions or want some guidance. I’d definitely be more anxious without her!
Fav thing about breastfeeding?
Our bond. I love the way Rumi feeds while looking up at me and smiling. It’s like I’m her whole world, it’s such an amazing feeling. Providing your baby with all they need is so rewarding.
Most challenging thing about breastfeeding?
One of the tough things I’ve found is other people not realising how much time, effort, and sacrifice is involved. Keeping your baby fed and your supply strong isn’t easy.
I used to do wedding makeup and I remember pumping in the middle of a job, then racing home with bursting boobs…just as someone gave her a bottle of formula (anyone who’s pumped before will know how annoying that is).
Any leakage or nip slip moments you’d rather forget?
YES, when I was out having lunch with some girls from my Plunket group. I don’t usually have issues with leakage, so you can imagine my surprise when I unbuttoned my shirt and milk sprayed across the table.
Another time that comes to mind is during a collaboration with a cookie company. We created a special lactation cookie, and I ate 3 of them while doing the photoshoot. Later that evening I was out at a restaurant when I realised my shirt was soaking, from my boobs right right down to my belly button. I had to go and hide in the car. (At least I knew the cookies worked though, ha!)
Weirdest place you’ve fed your babes?
I work from home, so nowhere too crazy. Does the airport toilet count?
Talk us through your breastfeeding wardrobe…
I was lucky to be given some nice breastfeeding clothes when I had Nevaeh, so I didn't need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe.
In saying that, I’m often on the buy & sell pages and can never find anything I like! I’m not a big fan of clothes that are obviously made for breastfeeding. There are far too many florals and stripes for my liking, I prefer something more discreet.
Everyday I’ll wear some sort of breastfeeding-friendly top — it’s usually in a plain colour with decent coverage as I’ve got a large bust. And it’s got to be comfortable!
Your top 3 breastfeeding tips for mums-to-be?
- Drink lots of water (you get SO thirsty!)
- Educate yourself so you're prepared for different scenarios. Whether you talk with friends or a professional, it’s good to arm yourself with knowledge.
- Do whatever works for you. Breastfeed, bottle feed, either way is fine! Don’t feel pressured to feed a certain way, or to always be out and about.
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