To mark World Breastfeeding Week, we’re championing mums by sharing their honest, empowering breastfeeding stories. Each journey is different – from navigating NICU and returning to work, to starting again after a tough first experience. These stories reflect the strength, resilience, and dedication behind every feed. By sharing them, we hope to support and encourage other parents on their own unique path.
“I was blown away by how much milk I produced for my premature baby” – Sophie’s Story
Charlie was born at 29 weeks, weighing just 3lbs 14ozs. This was Sophie’s third baby and her two daughters Felicity and Melody were also born premature also. Despite Charlie’s emergency delivery and a significant placental abruption, he was placed on Sophie’s chest for a precious moment before being taken to the NICU.
An incredible milk supply
Within two hours of birth, Sophie was already pumping – and producing 30ml of milk. Over the next six weeks in hospital, she built up a remarkable supply.
The NICU nurses joked she had enough to feed all the babies on the ward. When Charlie was transferred to another hospital, they brought two lunch bags full of frozen milk.
“I was producing around 2,000mls of breast milk a day. The nurses would joke that it was enough milk to feed all the newborn babies on both the NICU and maternity ward. I was so proud.”
First breastfeed at 30 weeks
At just six days old, Charlie surprised everyone by latching during a skin-to-skin moment with Sophie. The lactation nurse looked on in amazement as Charlie breastfed for the first time.
“After five minutes, Charlie passed out with a milky glaze around his chops.”
Feeding progress in the NICU
Over the following weeks, Charlie continued to build his feeding skills. By four weeks old, he was feeding on demand – and eventually no longer needed top-ups via his feeding tube.
Sophie stayed in the NICU’s parent room, committed to every feed, gradually watching Charlie become a confident breastfeeder.
“For the remaining two weeks he was in the NICU, he became a breast-eating expert!”
