Breastfeeding - for Case_Girl - Real Mum story on MoM

1 Comment

Case_Girl I just want to say thanks for sharing your story. Breastfeeding is not easy an not as natural as everyone leads you to believe. Bubs has to learn how to do it correctly and it can be extremely painful. Every baby is different and every mum has different views, beliefs and personal experiences.

Personally both my babies were great feeders (within minutes of birth and were efficient i.e. little piglets) but with bubs #1 it turned out breast was not best for her as she had severe reflux and I painfully decided that after 4 months of tears, exhaustion, constant screaming from her and no sleep either of us that I’d put her on reflux formula. It was the best decision ever and she became instantly happy and healthy. We both got sleep and most importantly I was happy. Bubs #2 also had reflux (less severe) but it didn’t bother her as much so we got through to 8 months on breast before moving to formula.

Both times around my milk was very thin (when expressed and refrigerated hardly any creamy stuff sat on the top – like cream on full cream milk…), and I didn’t have an excess amount. I tried expressing after feeding to boost my supply but barely got anything – although I think my girls did drink loads.

From my experience, my milk flow was more controlled and better quality second time around but it was probably related to the more relaxed and less tired and stressed that I was.

I just want to say to everyone who is a first time breastfeeder, or a multiple time mum having different issues, to make sure you use your network of friends and family. You’ll be surprised at how many people do not find breastfeeding easy or natural and may have tried many options that could suit you. It’s also nice to get reassurance that you’re not a failure and to get some of the guilt off your shoulders.

My mum gave me some sound words that made me feel better – when she had us, my nana came to stay for over a month and basically did everything for the household while she rested, recovered and focussed on feeding us. She felt guilty that she couldn’t do the same thing for me as she was working. It is a different world these days and traditional options may need to be relooked at.

Posted by claret, 9th May 2013