Breastfeeding, Expectations, and the Realities No One Talks About | Raleigh Birth Photographer and Postpartum Support

Becoming a mother is life-changing, but it doesn’t always go as expected. As a Raleigh birth photographer and postpartum support, I know firsthand that new moms often face challenges—especially with breastfeeding. Many families in Raleigh, Greensboro, and Fayetteville, NC discover that feeding their baby brings questions, struggles, and emotions they never anticipated. Sharing these stories, along with resources and support, helps mothers feel less alone and more empowered.

I was pregnant with my oldest, I thought breastfeeding would just come… naturally… like my son and I would just automatically know what we were doing. I could not have been more wrong.

The Reality of Breastfeeding for New Moms

Like many new moms in Raleigh, Greensboro, and Fayetteville, NC, I entered motherhood with the idea that breastfeeding would be instinctive and simple. What I didn’t expect was the emotional rollercoaster, the uncertainty, and the deep feelings of inadequacy that can come when things don’t go as planned.

Over time—and after having two more children—I’ve learned so much about breastfeeding through both personal experience and through my undergraduate studies focused on pregnancy and postpartum health. I’ve also had the privilege of working with many families during this tender season of life, offering not just documentation through photography, but also a listening ear and a supportive perspective.

What I Learned About Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT)

One of the most eye-opening things I’ve discovered came in 2016, when I first learned about a condition called Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT)—also known as glandular hypoplasia.

It wasn’t until 2016 when I learned about the condition of Insufficient Glandular Tissue, otherwise known as glandular hypoplasia. This is a “disorder in which the milk-making tissue of the breast does not develop as expected, either in utero, during puberty, and/or during pregnancy” (La Leche League International, 2021). There is still a lot to learn about insufficient glandular tissue and the causes, and many mothers don’t find out this is the root issue of why they’re not able to produce enough milk until they have major struggles with nursing or can not make milk at all.

This knowledge was a game-changer for me—not only in my own journey but in how I support other mothers. So many women blame themselves when breastfeeding is difficult, thinking they aren’t trying hard enough or that something is wrong with them. But conditions like IGT are rarely discussed, even though they impact countless families.

You’re Not Alone in the Journey

If you’re a mom in Raleigh, Greensboro, or Fayetteville, NC navigating breastfeeding challenges, you’re not alone. Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, combo feeding, pumping, or using formula, you’re doing what’s best for your baby—and that deserves to be honored, not judged.

There are wonderful lactation consultants, support groups, and community resources throughout North Carolina to help you find answers and support. You are not failing. You are learning, growing, and doing the best with the information and resources you have—and that is something to be proud of.

Raleigh Birth Photographer and Postpartum Doula Support

As a photographer who also advocates for maternal health and well-being, I’m passionate about capturing the real, raw, and beautiful moments of motherhood—not just the picture-perfect ones. If you’re in the Triangle or Sandhills region and want to preserve this season through photos, I’d love to connect.