If this is the case, the Leader can still be of help to the mother. Even sitting with the mother while she tries to breastfeed or listening to her concerns by phone can be important sources of support. Expressing a little milk so that there are drops on the nipple can help the baby become more interested in initial sessions. Just as with well babies, it is preferable to offer other feedings by mouth from a dropper, cup, spoon or other device rather than from an artificial nipple. While it is true that a mother of a hospitalized baby can require more help and support from a Leader, the rewards are potentially great.
Mothers are often extremely grateful to have had the support of another mother during a trying time.
Leaders may not be these mothers' only source of breastfeeding assistance yet much about the support that Leaders provide is unique. A Leader's understanding of the importance of the mother-baby relationship can be refreshing. After placing her initial call to LLL, an exhausted, overwhelmed mother might not have the energy to make a second call. Instead of referring her elsewhere, Leaders should feel confident in their ability to give the mother the assistance she seeks. The LLLI Catalogue contains additional resources on this topic, written for both Leaders and parents.