Breastfeeding has been one of the most challenging things as a new mom. Sounds silly, right? It is the most natural way to feed your baby, yet the most difficult. It takes a toll on you emotional and physically.
When Oliver was just a newborn, I HATED breastfeeding. But I refused formula. I have nothing against formula feeding. But for me it just was not an option. Just thinking about it, I was overwhelmed with guilt. Being able to produce what he NEEDS and being too selfish to give it to him -- I couldn't handle it. The first few weeks were the hardest. I felt like it was ALL I did, and it was. Cluster feedings when all I wanted to do was sleep. Literally HOURS at a time.
The first night we were home from the hospital, I was so exhausted and frustrated, I gave him formula {and cried while I did so}. When he projectile vomited it up and cried because it upset his tummy, I told myself NEVER again. I felt so guilty.
The moment I realized breastfeeding was worth it was at his 2 week appointment when we realized he had gained so much weight already. To know I did that: I created all the nutrients he needed to gain so much and be so healthy. NOTHING comes close to that. I did that.
I am SO happy when I hear about new moms breastfeeding. Especially when they stick through the first weeks. A lot of women think formula is the easy way out. And it is, in some ways. You don't have to worry about your child not getting enough, you don't have to worry about clogged ducts or Mastitis, no worrying about your milk supply because it's in a can in the cabinet. Breastfeeding is FREE. And it is SO good for your child. Breastfed babies don't get sick as much as formula babies. Did you know it is actually good to breastfeed your child while your sick? Because of the anti bodies in your milk, your baby builds up an immunity to the sickness. Is that not amazing? Honestly, I don't know why every mom doesn't at least TRY breastfeeding?
Once I hit the 2 month mark is probably when it became something I am used to now. Yes, it sucks getting engorged in the middle of the night and having to get up and pump to make sure your supply doesn't decrease. But it is worth it. Breastfeeding can prevent obesity as well.
I was back down to my pre-pregnancy weight about 2 weeks after delivery. I blame breastfeeding!
You would think, breastfeeding is a hassle. But it's not. If you forget a bottle at home or the milk... No problem! You have some ready! I personally like to pump before going somewhere just to have a bottle ready. But if I ever forgot it and needed to feed Oliver ASAP, it is no big deal at all! I carry my breastfeeding cover in his diaper bag at all times.
Breastfeeding also makes those long nights of feeding so much easier. No getting up to make a bottle. I simply wake up, reach over into the co-sleeper and get him, feed him, lay him back down, go to sleep. I have no reason to get up unless it is to change his diaper. It's actually proven breastfeeding mommas get more sleep. {and boy, do we need our sleep!}
The benefits for your baby are endless. That isn't all thought -- you, momma, have a lower risk of breast & ovarian cancer, diabetes and heart disease!
One thing I want all new breastfeeding mommas to know is: IT GETS BETTER. I know the first weeks are miserable. At least it was for me. I wanted to quit so bad. But in the end, it is totally worth it. I am not 3.5 months in, and I have learned to appreciate it. Breastfeeding now, is my time to relax. It's calm. Sometimes Oliver will be nursing and just stare at me, I will glance at him & he will smile so big at me. It's like he knows how amazing it is. <3
I do know some people just are not able to do it. And I have loads of respect for them even trying because some moms don't even give it a chance! I advocate breastfeeding. I am no expert. I have had my issues with it. But I can't imagine it any other way!
See those chubby cheeks!? Breastfeeding :P
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