Breastfeeding your baby is such an individual choice, so I’m not here to make judgments on those who choose to use formula. I had to supplement with formula a few times for medical reasons, so I know out of necessity, we do what’s best for our baby. I am not one to say, “breast is best,” rather I feel “fed is best.” There can be a lot of factors contributing to someone’s choice as to whether or not to breastfeed your baby. I was fortunate enough to want to breastfeed from the beginning. My mother stressed the importance of the special bond that forms between mom and baby, as did her mother, my grandmother’s mother, and so on. I also knew how important it was for the baby’s health which for me was the driving force behind my choice to breastfeed.
Our 1st daughter, Lucy, was tongue tied (and they missed it at the hospital) which was the start of several bouts of mastitis. Anyone ever have mastitis? Yeah, well it HURTS! Even when I got mastitis 10 times…..I continued to breastfeed. Even when I was put on prednisone for four months…..I continued to breastfeed. Even through bloody, dry, chapped nipples…..I continued to breastfeed. Why continue one might ask. Because it’s not about me. It’s about the baby. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. And, good things come to those who wait my friends.
Breastmilk also has incredible health benefits to your little one. Mother’s milk contains antibodies that provide protective layer in the baby’s nose, throat and digestive system. This helps prevent them from getting sick. Having an autoimmune disease (Crohn’s disease) myself, I knew how important it was to do everything in my power to protect our baby. How do you breastfeed while on medications to help manage your disease? It depends what medications you’re on, but I’m lucky to be on Class B medications. Anything over that does need to be closely monitored.
I got very sick after Alice (our 2nd baby) was born, and had to be put on prednisone. There was a lot of pumping and dumping going on to make sure she didn’t get any of the medication. I had to time things just right, and be extremely diligent with feeding schedules day and night. If you’re debating whether or not to breastfeed, I encourage you to educate yourself, gather information and talk to those around you who have successfully breastfed. There are so many wonderful resources out there if you need help. I suggest La Leche League, or contacting your OB to be referred to a lactation consultant. Yes, it can be incredibly challenging, and at times, very frustrating, but I’m telling you, it’s worth it. I nursed Lucy for 17 months, Alice for 13 months and am almost on month number four with our baby boy.
Let’s talk about that bond, shall we. I remember before the first time I nursed one of our children, I was scared. Scared that she wouldn’t latch, scared that I wouldn’t produce enough milk and most of all, scared that emotionally I wouldn’t get invested. That all changed the moment I saw those little curious eyes staring back at me, and gazing into my own eyes. I remember crying such wonderful, happy, and beautiful tears. THIS is what my mom was talking about. At that moment, I was hooked. This attachment only kept growing. I also found the breast to be an amazing tool. Yes, it provides essential nurishment to your baby, but it gives them a tremendous sense of comfort as well. Our firstborn had colic. Nothing calmed her except nursing. Our second baby got bronchiolitis at just two months old, and the only thing that that brought her comfort was breastfeeding. Then, there are those dreaded doctor visits when babies get their vaccinations. We’ve all been there. Heart wrenching screams that fill the halls. In an instant, the blood curdling wails are halted with babe to breast.
I’ve learned so many lessons since becoming a mother, but one of the most valuable ones I hold close is to not to get too set on a “plan.’ If you do that, you might end up pretty disappointed in the actual outcome. Expect the unexpected. Life happens, and we roll with it. Know that whatever decision you make, it’s the best one. I used to get overly concerned with what others thought, but once you let go and listen to what really matters, an overwhelming sense of peace happens. With Lucy, we weaned her, which to date, was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do. It was tough on her, very hard on me and to this day she’s our most attached baby:) She’s almost 5, but I will forever call her “Baby.” Alice just decided she was ready, and more curious about everything around her to take the time being latched to me. We will see what the future holds for baby Guy, but he’s currently our largest baby and best eater, so I don’t see him stopping anytime soon.
As I approach my 41st birthday at the end of July, I realize this is our last baby. I am holding onto these precious moments in my heart and in my mind. Breastfeeding isn’t for everyone, but I believe it’s one of the many beautiful gifts we’ve been given as women.
Everyone’s journey is different. Make the best informed decision that’s right for you.
Did you have Lucy’s tongue tie released? There’s a dentist in De Pere that will do it. I know there’s many types of tongue ties too. The doctors don’t look for tongue ties so it’s best to hire a lactation consultant. Things you don’t think about as a new Mom. Was Lucy breaking suction a lot? Or latching wrong?
You will bond regardless of breastfeeding because baby knows your smell and voice best. Skin to skin is what creates the bonding. So that’s what breastfeeding is. I didn’t breastfeeding, but I made sure to make time for skin to skin. My baby is 7 months and hasn’t been sick once yet. He said Mama on Father’s day for the first time and again 2 times at Grandma’s house.