Tuesday, March 11, 2008

(Breast)feeding Carnival

Sarcastic Mom is having a (Breast)feeding Carnival today and as you may (or may not) know, I am extremely passionate about this topic. Copying a style that Serina Hope has used very effectively and that I always enjoy reading, I'll interview myself. I didn't really want to recount the whole long story of our breastfeeding journey so I've only got a few points.

What made you want to breastfeed?
The simplest answer is because I believed all the literature out there about how this is best for mother and baby. Prior to having Aaron, I had never even seen or heard of anybody I know breastfeeding. I never heard anybody talk about it, good or otherwise. During the pregnancy, I just made notes on all the things that I had to do to ensure a healthy baby. Breastfeeding was just one of many things on the list. I didn't even give it a second thought until my nipples were cracked, blistered and bleeding.

Why did you persist?
Now here's a silly answer: Because I said I would. I was in tears much of the time and dreaded each feed. Then of course, doubts formed in my own mind and also in the minds of those around me. But the overwhelming need not to be proven wrong about this kept me going. Yes, it may have been the 'wrong' reason at that time but it kept me going and I'm grateful for my pride.

So you've been nursing for 19 months now, how long do you plan to go on for?
I have no definite answer for this. It is really a two way relationship that forms between mother and baby. I believe that we'll need to make the decision together. It still works for us now and I'm sure weaning will happen when we're both ready.

Are there any perks? Apart from the nutritional value.
The two that immediately spring to mind: 1)Weight loss while seated. 2) No periods for ages.

What advice to you have for new moms?
1) Believe that you can do it. Question any advice/information that hints that you are not capable of breastfeeding.
2) Stick it out, it is worth it.
3) Reward yourself frequently for the good job you're doing.
4) Join any breastfeeding groups in your neighborhood or online. Support is critical for success.

17 comments:

KJ said...

Thanks for this. You make some great points.

Anonymous said...

I agree with your post! Especially th losing weight while sitting part. I know that was awesome with my first. Still waiting for it to kick in with this baby though!

Anonymous said...

Good advice! My post is here.

Attie said...

I have breast fed all 4..no weightloss from it that I ever noticed at all!!

the planet of janet said...

excellent advice. thank you for posting this.

Lotus (Sarcastic Mom) said...

Excellent tips and great tips for ladies considering BF! Thanks for posting, hon!

elizabeth embracing life said...

I have nursed five babies and even when I had outside sources suggest it might be easier with my 4th and 5th child I made it work. And it's so easy too. Blessings as you continue to give your baby the best.

Anonymous said...

i couldn't have said it better myself... why does everyone think it will be easy?? my pride was what kept me going with my second after he tore my nipples up so bad... and i am so grateful for my stubbornness...

Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) said...

Great story. Thanks for sharing it!

Kellan said...

This was great Amanda. I never breast fed any of my kids and I am always so curious and touched to hear those stories from those women that do.

Take care and I'll see you soon. Kellan

Anonymous said...

It's good that you were able to stick with it. I wish I had been.

Cynthia said...

Hats off to you...it's not easy!

Not Afraid to Use It said...

I always said that I would breastfeed my kids until they went to college if it meant I could continue to eat whatever the hell I wanted. LOL Great post!

Serina Hope said...

Awesome interview!! You are so right, believing that you can do it and being persistant is key.

Laura said...

I love nursing. I'm on baby four now, and it's SO easy, SO convenient, and SO sweet. BUT SOOOO not making me lose weight!! That little benefit is, and always has been, lost on me (except with number one--it came off quick with her.) When we wean is when it always falls off for me. With that said, I'm looking forward to weaning this one and going to the beach!!

Amy said...

I love the way you interviewed yourself. Thanks for sharing your story!

Troy said...

Lucky! Even when I was breastfeeding I still had periods. bleh.