“I was just a little girl when I had to leave home to study. I come from Bibipet, a very small village near Narayankhed in Telangana. Since we didn’t have proper schools nearby, I was sent to a convent hostel at a very young age. Being away from home so early wasn’t easy, but it made me independent in ways I didn’t understand back then.

Later, I moved to Hyderabad for higher studies. One thing I’ve always been grateful for is the freedom my parents gave me to choose what I wanted to do. I completed my graduation and post-graduation diploma in Nutrition and began working as a diabetes educator in hospitals and clinics.

After marriage, I took breaks from work during pregnancy and while caring for my children. But those breaks turned out to be life-changing. I began reading more about infant nutrition, breastfeeding, and child care. The more I read, the more I realised how little structured support was available for new mothers. That curiosity became a passion. I pursued a certification in lactation education and later cleared the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant exam.

Working with mothers in Neonatal Intensive Care Units has been one of the most emotional parts of my journey. These mothers are incredibly strong. They face medical challenges, emotional stress, and sleepless nights. They don’t just need clinical help; they need someone who will sit with them and listen. I became that person. Many of them talk to me like they would to a sister or close friend. When they share updates about their baby’s small milestones, it brings me so much joy.

I strongly believe antenatal sessions are important. Every pregnant woman should be guided and supported for breastfeeding even before delivery. Being prepared helps them handle the postpartum phase with more confidence. Hospitals should also ensure that healthcare staff are trained in basic lactation support. That’s the goal of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. It helps hospitals follow key steps to support early and exclusive breastfeeding.

There’s a lot of misinformation out there. Social media, random advice from people—it all adds to the confusion. I tell new parents to trust only evidence-based guidance. Don’t fall for unnecessary gadgets or miracle tips. And always reach out to a certified lactation professional if needed.

Over the years, I’ve seen a positive shift. More doctors are referring patients to lactation consultants and parents are more open to seeking help. That change gives me hope.

What keeps me going is that moment when a mother leaves my OPD with confidence in her eyes. The first time she successfully latches her baby, the tears she sheds out of relief and happiness—that’s the real reward.

For anyone considering this field, I would say it requires dedication, constant learning, and genuine care. When you support a mother, you’re creating a ripple effect that touches generations.”

– Ms. Archana Reddy Chinnapatlolla, Lactation Consultant