Even more impressive, I see no end in sight! That's right, Emma and I have committed to a year of breastfeeding. If she wants to go longer I plan on doing the best I can. Breastfeeding my daughter is one of the most rewarding, challenging, and awesome things I've ever done. In a day of breastfeeding (anywhere from 6-10 sessions) I feel a range of emotions. Everything from joy and comfort to anger and pain. Breastfeeding hurts (we've been over that) and my breasts go through phases where ducts get clogged and blisters form but in spite of all that, it's an incredible thing that I'm able to do for my little girl and I'm so grateful to be able to give her this incredible advantage.
There have been many who have criticized or suggested that we stop breastfeeding or start supplementing with formula. My mother suggested that a bit of formula would help with Emma's gas. At Christmas with my in-laws, a family friend asked if I was still breastfeeding? As if it had been long enough (Emma was a month old). Through all this, I stuck to my guns. My gut told me that Emma's digestive issues would not be helped by drinking from a bottle and that breastfeeding her would give us a bond that no one could question.
My attitude of exclusivity and dedication left a few friends and family members feeling frustrated and I have been accused of being arrogant about it. That isn't true at all, I acknowledge that I've been very fortunate to be able to breastfeed Emma and I do not take it for granted. I know that breastfeeding is a choice and a very personal one. I was willing to sacrifice my body for more than just the 9 months of pregnancy so that I could breastfeed my baby. Many women are not willing or able to do so. As mothers we're supposed to let our intuition lead the way. My path was clear to me and I'm fortunate that there were no serious roadblocks.
Intuitively, I know that what I'm doing is best for my daughter, for me, for our family. I am so very grateful to have had the chance to give Emma these building blocks for a healthier, safer, more connected future. Emma was born 6 months ago and I've never once pondered giving up. I'm so lucky, so grateful, so blessed to have been able to share this experience with her and I look forward to another 6 months!
We TRIED formula due to supply issues and weight loss concerns. My daughter's body did NOT respond well to it. Thankfully, we found a combination of medication (for me) and donated breast milk to get us where we need to be. Wonderful post!
ReplyDeleteWay to go mama!! You are doing an awesome job!! Good for you for being so dedicated!
ReplyDeleteFirst, Emma is adorable. Second, congratulations! Third - I completely agree that formula probably won't help with digestive issues. Breastmilk proteins are more easily digestible than formula proteins.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for linking up to the hop! I hope you'll join in next week when we talk about BFing and PPD - if you had it, how you managed, if you didn't, if you think BFing helped avoid it.
Congrats on making it to 6 months! It really is an amazing feeling to be able to say "my baby has never had formula," even if it does make other people think we're "arrogant" sometimes. :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck on the next 6 months (and beyond)!
Love the photo! Congrats and good luck. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much ladies! I loved reading your bloghop posts this week!
ReplyDeleteA great accomplishment! And never once questioning it is not something I can say never happened for me. I stuck with it, but I did think of giving up quite a few times. We lasted 17 or 18 months, but the first 4 and last 2 were the hardest.
ReplyDeleteGood luck continuing on the path!
You go momma!
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