My concern had to do with breast engorgement. While waiting for my breast milk to come in, my breasts became so engorged that I was in excruciating pain. They were swollen to about the size of footballs, as hard as rocks, black and blue, and so hot that I swear you could have cooked eggs on them. I was told by varying sources not to pump because this could prolong the engorgement phase. Therefore, I struggled with this pain believing I had no other choice. Eventually, I couldn’t take it anymore and made a doctor’s appointment.
My doctor listed the usual remedies—ice packs, Tylenol, warm compresses, and hot showers, which were not working well for me. So I decided to ask the women in the waiting room if they had any secret cures. Remember, no question is a dumb question, especially when others are experts by their own experiences. One woman responded with something that I had never heard before. She recommended that I buy a head of cabbage. She stated that stuffing cabbage leaves into my nursing bras would ease the pain. They absorbed the heat, decreased the swelling, and relieved the bruising. Who would have thought that a vegetable could provide such a wonderful service to the nursing mother? If I didn’t have the courage to ask, I would have never known.
Don’t be afraid to assert yourself and ask questions. One thing that I have found to be extremely helpful is when you let your doctor know ahead of time that you have several questions for him or her at your scheduled appointment. Some doctors appreciate a fax or e-mail of the questions prior to the office visit or consultation. This gives them time to prepare any important information that they may want to share with you in either verbal or written form.
Selecting a doctor that you’re comfortable with is also important. Let your doctor know what you are looking for and make sure that it is a good fit between the two of you. Doctors run their practices differently. Find a practice that meets your needs. I find it interesting that almost all parents research and interview pediatricians to find just the right doctor for their child, but often do not do the same for themselves. Take the time to find the right person for you and your loved ones.
