Breastfeeding is bliss, I have no other words to explain it. I would have it no other way. She was, and is a breastfeeding champ. I was adamant that I was going to breastfeed. Why wouldn’t I? Of course I feared complications that would make it so I couldn’t. But those fears were put to rest, within the first five minutes of her taking her first breath. She was latched and happy, we both were.
First latch
How can mother nature be wrong right?! She made all of us mammals with exactly what our offspring need. And it’s right there ready and waiting. I never wanted or want a bottle to touch her lips. I’ve got the only nipples she needs. And I can’t imagine having to deal with all the cleaning and sterilizing. Boiling of water, testing to make sure it’s not too hot. This wee one has always been demanding when it comes to food. It’s now and I mean NOW… I can’t fathom having to do all that with her wailing in my ear.
And the benefits, oh my the benefits of our boobs. It’s liquid gold really, and pharmaceutical companies are still trying to duplicate it. For the first six months of life, it is all they need. It protects them from a wide aray of illnesses. Now and later in life. As well as antibodies already in your breast milk, your body will make new antibodies as soon as you are exposed to an infection. These antibodies then transfer to your milk, ready for your baby to receive. It has been proven that breastfed babies, test higher on IQ tests. The longer you can breastfeed, the better it is for them and for you
Momma’s get just as many benefits as the babes. We have less risk for many cancers, better bone density later in life. It staves off that monthly friend just a little while longer. But don’t let that fool you into thinking that you can’t get pregnant during this time. Best to use protection, just in case. It helps aid in weight loss. Or in my case HUGE weight loss. The extra bonding you get is the most amazing thing in the world.
Yes I know, not everyone can. For a multitude of reason’s. For them I can’t imagine how they must feel. I’m blessed that I’ve been lucky. Sure a teething child grinding their sore gums on your nipple is not the most pleasant of feelings. And blocked ducts are not my idea of fun. The first month I’d say are tough, until you are both comfortable and become pros. There are many resources out there to help you on your journey. Join a La Leche group in your community. Talk to your doctor/midwife/nurse a friend. And don’t be afraid to nurse in public. At first you may be a bit shy to whip out your boob at a moments notice. But soon it wont bother you at all. Most malls etc have rooms for nursing. Some stores even have sign that state they are breastfeeding friendly. Me I’ll just sit down where ever, we have the right to feed our child where ever and how ever. Don’t let anyone make you feel uncomfortable. Sometimes it even helps to have a nurse in. Get a few of your momma friends and go out and feed together in a group. You might feel less awkward when it’s not just you.
I love bringing able to look down at my beautiful girl, and have her staring back up at me. The way she strokes my chest with her hand. The way she smiles at me when she is done. A trickle of milk in the corner of her mouth. And knowing its all me that has made this plump thriving happy girl. I plan to continue to nurse as long as I can, or as long as she wants. I hope it doesn’t mean that she will be a university student coming home for lunch.
Almost six months and going strong
Tiny steps, big journey 