What made you decide to breastfeed your child?
I read many stories and articles on the Internet -- many of which were beneficial and empowering. Women of all ages and from all backgrounds have done this from the beginning of time. Formula hasn't always existed.
I read a very informative book with illustrations.
Is this the first child you've breastfed?
This was my first. I was blessed to be a growing statistic of breastfeeders. But it wasn't easy. With it came much research, reading, classes, support and will power.
Is there anything you'd do differently next time?
Even though I felt as prepared as I could possibly be, I was still scared. I knew all of the positives of breastfeeding. But I also knew it wasn't going to be easy. I'd relax more next time.
What did you enjoy most about breastfeeding?
I chose to give birth naturally so my baby would be wide awake and ready to feast when he arrived. And boy, was he. We had little trouble with the latch-on and he ate for an hour. It didn't take long for my milk to come in. I didn't feel too engorged due to the lactation consultant teaching me how.
And all you are hoping for is to approach this feat to dominate and conquer. But all of those negative stories make you question your own abilities. And that is why breastfeeding mothers need to hear only the truths and successes of breastfeeding.
What was the hardest part of breastfeeding?
We did supplement for a day to make sure the baby was eating enough. He was very jaundice and we were concerned. But everything was fine in a week or so and his color returned to normal.
Latch-on is important. Although even proper latch-on still causes a bit of discomfort in the early months. It still hurts a little, but nothing compared to improper latch-on. After three months of breastfeeding, my breasts had become so used to feeding times that they were no longer sore. The discomfort was gone and it truly was second nature.
I refused all free formula samples from the hospital. I knew it may become to tempting somewhere down the line. And I will always be grateful I made that choice. I have heard from friends and family that chose to take the samples. And all of them eventually switched to formula for one reason or another.
I also chose not to pump. I found the pump to be more painful that the actually breastfeeding. And it took longer to pump enough milk for a bottle. So I breastfed everywhere we went. On a plane, in the back of the car, at my in-laws and even in my back yard.
I breastfed my son for 15 months. And even though it was trying and even an inconvenience at times, I knew I was doing him a great service. He has been sick twice in his two years of life. He is big and strong. And I know my sacrifices and determination have forever made him better. And I feel a great satisfaction with myself as well. I proved to myself that I can do anything. I know now that even when life throws me a bad hand, I can do it. I breastfed!
I must say I couldn't have done it without my supportive husband. He never once complained about having to pull the car over to let me feed, who would bring me the baby in the wee hours of the morning when I was exhausted, who always reassured me I could do it and often praised me for doing it. He knew I was scared. But he knew I could do it. He believed in me which helped me continue to believe in myself. And I love him for that.
Tips and Tricks
- Reading even one book on how to approach breastfeeding can truly increase your knowledge, relieve some fears and ultimately help you to know better what you are doing.
- Having great spousal support is key. If they know what to expect, they are better equipped to make your breastfeeding time as easy and stress free as possible.
- Take a class with a lactation consultant
- Be prepared
- Be persistent
- Believe in yourself
- Know you can do it
- Do it for your baby
