Chapter Fifteen: Lactation Troubles (Warning: Semi Graphic)
Constance was relieved that Mildred was taking better care of herself. If she had ended up like Persephone... Constance would never have forgiven herself. Star was still having trouble durring a feeding and whenever she got overwhelmed or excited,she would still end up panting. Constance knew that she would eventually grow out of it, but it still scared her. Star was her only child. She couldn't let anything happen to her.
She coaxed the little one to nurse. Star was slowly learning how to latch on. Perhaps Constance didn't have to speak with a lactatiion consultant. Mildred and Ethel saw her having trouble during the feeding.
"Aunt Constance, I took the liberty of speaking with the lactation consultant from the hospital. I couldn't bear to see you like this."
"Did you mention my scars?" Constance asked.
"No...I did say that you are self-conscious."Replied Mildred. "The lactation consultant was very helpful. She said that is perfectly normal for a new mother to be self-conscious. She told me that when you start a feeding and are able to nurse your child, the first thing that you need to remember is to relax."
Constance sighed, letting her entire body relax. Mildred settled Star tummy-to-tummy on the nursing pillow.
"Now, wait until she opens her mouth wide, then pull her in close..." Constance did as Mildred instructed when Star opened her mouth up wide.
"Ow!" Constance cried out.
"What is it, Aunt Constance?" Millie asked.
"Are you all right, Miss Hardbroom?" Ethel inquired. She was just as worried as Mil was.
"She latched, but only on the nipple..." Constance winced.
"Take your pinky finger , place it in the corner of Star's mouth, breaking the latch..." Said Mildred. Constance did exactly that. "Now, try again."
Constance waited until Star was ready and tried again.
"Make sure she latches onto the entire areola and not just on the nipple." Said Mildred. When Star opened her mouth wide again, Constance made sure she latched onto the entire areola.
"Good girl!" She breathed. The three watched as Star was now suckling properly. Constance stroked the baby's throat with a finger. With the assistance of her mother, Star was able to take in more calories which woulf bring up her weight.
Star came off the breast panting heavily, her tiny chest heaving and heart beating rapidly.
"Shhhh, shhhh. Slow deep breaths, darling." Constance said, her eyes widened. She touched the tips of her fingers to the newborn's chest.
"Calm down, baby girl." Mildred murmured, gently.
"Take it easy." Said Ethel. "Shhh." She told Star. She placed her finger in the baby's tiny hand. Star slowly calmed and relaxed in Constance's arms.
"There we are..." Constance sighed with relief.