Yes I know breastfeeding week has passed, so this is long overdue but here it is nevertheless. Here is my journey as a mom of two, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of breastfeeding in ways I never anticipated. Each child brought unique challenges and triumphs that shaped my journey and taught me invaluable lessons about patience, perseverance, and the incredible bond that breastfeeding can create. Here’s my story.
FIRST CHILD: THE STRUGGLE WITH TONGUE TIE IS REAL:
When I found out I was pregnant with my first child, I was determined to breastfeed. I read all the books, attended breastfeeding classes, and stocked up on nursing supplies. I felt prepared and confident. However, reality hit hard when my baby was born.
From the very beginning, breastfeeding was incredibly painful. My baby struggled to latch properly, and each feeding session was filled with tears—both mine and hers. After several frustrating and exhausting days, we discovered that she was tongue-tied. Her tongue-tie made it difficult for her to latch properly, causing pain and making it nearly impossible for her to get enough milk.
At the time I was also dealing with what I thought was baby blues, but ended up being more serious, Post partum depression and so the tongue tie just added to what felt like a hill I just could not climb. I was told that I needed to cut her tongue to get it corrected and see a lactation specialist. I however decided against it, not only because of everything I was going through but also I did not feel comfortable with the whole situation.
After a month of endless efforts and heartache, I made the difficult decision to switch to formula. The guilt was overwhelming. I felt like I had failed as a mother, unable to provide the most basic nourishment for my baby which just added on to my post partum depression. But as the weeks passed, I saw Ava thriving and gaining weight. It was then I realized that feeding my baby, no matter how, was what truly mattered.
SECOND CHILD: A TRIUMPHANT JOURNEY:
When I became pregnant with my second child, I was both excited and apprehensive about breastfeeding again. I hoped for a smoother journey this time but prepared myself for any challenges that might arise. I even started collecting collostrum from 37 weeks pregnant every night and stored it in the freezer. Amara arrived, and from the very first latch, it was a completely different experience.
She latched on effortlessly, and I felt an overwhelming sense of relief and joy. Breastfeeding my second child was a beautiful experience. But do not get me wrong it was soooo painful for the first month. I knew I just had to persevere for it to get better.
We settled into a rhythm, and breastfeeding became so easy. I could just “whip a boob out” as I would say, and the milk was ready. I exclusively breastfed her for the first six months and continued breastfeeding alongside introducing solids, my plan is to stop when she is at least 1 and a half years old. Every feeding session is a reminder of how resilient and adaptable we are as mothers and how each child’s journey can be vastly different.
LESSONS LEARNED & WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT:
Reflecting on my breastfeeding journey, I’ve learned several important lessons that I’d like to share with other moms:
- Every Baby is Different: What works for one child might not work for another. Be open to different experiences and don’t compare your journey to others, you are unique.
- Seek Help Early: Lactation consultants can provide invaluable support if you decide to go that route. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help, even breastfeeding groups can be helpful. I joined Dr Bells Breastfeeding meet up called “wee feeders”. I’ve included the link if you want to have a look: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dr-bells-family-centre-wee-feeders-tickets-636450309007
- Be Kind to Yourself: It’s easy to feel guilty when things don’t go as planned. Remember, you’re doing your best, and that’s enough.
- Flexible Feeding Plans: Whether you breastfeed, formula-feed, or do a combination of both, the most important thing is that your baby is fed and loved.
- Celebrate the Triumphs: No matter how small they seem, celebrate the moments of success and connection with your baby because time is a thief, they grow so quickly.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Breastfeeding is a journey filled with both challenges and triumphs. My experiences with my two children were so different but it taught me to be patient, to seek help even when I didn’t want it, and most importantly, to cherish the special bond with each of my kids breast fed or not. For any mom reading this and facing her own breastfeeding struggles, know that you’re not alone. Each challenge is an opportunity for growth, and each triumph is a testament to your strength and love as a mother.
You’ve got this 😉
