This post is for a friend who made me think.
To breastfeed or not? That is the question. This is a question that haunts many new mothers. We are told that breastfeeding is best, and made to feel bad if we have to use formula.
I knew from the moment I found out I was pregnant I was going to breastfeed and that it was something I was very dedicated to. I am so dedicated that I pump while driving, while working, and I travel with my son when I have to travel more then one night. We are going on 11 months and still going strong. I worked very hard to continue to breastfeed and be a working mom. I had trouble at first, as many of us do. I had a lactation specialist come out, Cynthia Epps. She helped me in every way. She helped me transition back to work. She is my saint, I am so grateful for her. I love the connection and bond Arlo and I have created, as a breastfeeding team. It does take two! But that is our story and it is what works for us.
I love breastfeeding and it has helped me feel okay about working. It is the one thing I can do that no nanny can. It is our "thing." I have worked very hard to continue breastfeeding and I am the first one to tell you it doesn't come natural. I felt like a failure, when I had trouble. I needed someone to show me and write it out telling me what to do and how to do it. I thank my mother and my boyfriend for being so supportive and spending nights and days with me trying to make it work. It eventually became the most natural thing I have ever done. The one thing that just feels right and reminds me daily how powerful women really are. I could go on for days about how much I love it, and how sad I will be when he finally tells me he's done. I know it is coming, but we will leave that for another day.
Yes, I am a huge advocate for breastfeeding. Anyone who knows me knows this. With that being said, I still support people who have to use formula. People who feel that it isn't right for them, people who have a short supply, or just can't get the hang of it. Why is it so looked down upon these days? At the end of the day, we all want our children happy and healthy. That is the focus and whatever you have to do to get there is fine by me.
***UPDATE:Kristie Ostoja would like an honorable mention, due to her contribution to helping me transfer milk in bags, while we are driving. xo
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2 comments:
Ashley, I am so happy you posted this! I am so determined to be a breastfeeding Momma. I know it will be my "one special thing" that I can do with my baby that no one else can. I have friends that didn't or gave up, but I refuse to go any other way. Can't wait for this day - and so glad it worked so well for you!!
you are the ultimate super mom. things are looking better for us, thanks to you too. still not perfect.. but we'll see how it goes :)
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