My Breastfeeding Story

I've never really posted about breastfeeding much on my blog, even though it's such a big part of who I am. Before I had Jackson I knew I was going to breastfeed. I come from a long line of women who nursed and I was determined to carry on the tradition. I heard plenty of horror stories about how hard it was, how much it would hurt, how I would never have my body back blah blah blah. Hearing all of that was good in a way because it prepared me for some of the difficulties I would face and made me even more determined to make it work. I asked everyone I knew for advice- my doctor, fellow teachers, the lady with a baby in line next to me (just kidding), but it seemed like most people only nursed for a few months and called it quits. Of course I HAD to make it the full year (that's just how I roll).

I'm going to be honest, at first breastfeeding sucked. Big time. There was lots of pain and lots of tears. But the best advice I received (from my wonderful doctor) was to give it at least 3 weeks. After that the pain should subside and we would be able to fall into a sort of rhythm. And sure enough, she was right. That's not to say that I didn't panic when my nipples bled or grit my teeth from the pain. But I persevered and made it work.

I'm not quite sure why I refused to give up on breastfeeding. Maybe because I know "Breast is best" or because it's such a bonding experience. Either way I'm glad we've made it this far. My original goal was to make it 6 months and when that mark came and went I made the goal 12 months. Now that we're almost there I'm willing to go beyond 12 months as long as Jackson wants to. Which isn't to say I don't get weird looks and little comments. Hello! The World Health Organization recommends breastfeeding for the first two years! Why is is it so strange that I'm willing to nurse him longer than a year? I feel like it's almost a badge of honor that I've made it this far! (and I do NOT judge women who don't nurse their babies. EVER.)

Here's my advice for making it work. First, give it a minimum of 3 weeks for the pain to go away. Yeah, I know it's not supposed to hurt when your baby latches but I want to know whose boobie wouldn't hurt if they had a baby with the suction power of a Hoover attached to their breast 24/7? Yeah, that's what I thought. Also, you MUST get the number/email of a good lactation consultant and have it available at all times. If you're like me you'll be emailing them ALL the time with "my baby won't latch, my nipples are bleeding, I have thrush." Trust me, if you don't have a good lactation consultant you won't make it long. Usually your hospital has one in-house (which was my case) who is amazing and the hospital may even offer free breastfeeding support groups. GO to these! They are incredibly helpful and you'll meet a whole bunch of amazing women who are going through the same things as you. I formed such tight friendships with the women in my class!

If you plan on returning to work invest in a good (i.e. expensive) breast pump. The cheap ones do NOT work. Also do yourself a favor and buy a hands-free pumping bra. It will keep you pumping longer and leave you free to do things like check emails. You can get one at Buy, Buy Baby for around $30.

I think the most important thing to know is that breastfeeding DOES get easier. It starts out soooo hard and ends up being such a great bonding experience, but it takes time to get there. Be patient, get a good lactation consultant, and don't give up! I feel like breastfeeding was (and still is) one of the most important things I did for Jackson!