What did you enjoy most about breastfeeding?
I really enjoyed the bonding time. Breastfeeding was well worth it and I wish that I hadn't given up on it at 6 months. I realized a little too late how much formula she would go through and how I would miss that closeness. I can tell you that when and if I have a second child I am definitely breastfeeding again. Only this time I am going to try and do it for an entire year.
Good luck to anyone who is just starting out. You can do it!
What was the hardest part of breastfeeding?
That first week after my daughter Kennedy was born, was probably the toughest ever. I had decided to breastfeed and was about to give up. It was so painful. It got to a point where I would cry every time I had to feed her. Not to mention trying to get us both used to the process of latching on. She used to cry and cry and cry because we could not seem to get it right.
One day, I ran into a lady who was breastfeeding twins. She was a godsend. She suggested I use a nipple cream to ease the pain and to keep trying. Thanks to her, I did not give up. In no time, the pain stopped and breastfeeding Kennedy became that bonding time that you always hear about.
Breastfeeding was still difficult -- working and pumping. Hanging out with friends and trying to feed her in the midst of everything was hard as she realized I was anxious to get it done and would get stressed out, so it would take longer.
Tips and Tricks
- I highly recommend a nipple cream
- Get support from others
- Hang in there
- Don't give up too soon
