Breastfeeding is one of the most valuable gifts we can give our children during their first years of life. On several occasions we have talked about its benefits and the beautiful connection that is created in that exchange that is exclusive between mom and baby.
However, sometimes breastfeeding is not the experience we imagined. Therefore, I want to dedicate some words to mothers who are having or had difficulties with breastfeeding.
Maybe it was because you didn't get enough support, maybe the first time nerves beat you or maybe you had a particular problem, but whatever the reason, your breastfeeding wasn't what you expected. I understand you and I've been there.
A difficult breastfeeding
My experience with breastfeeding was very different from what I imagined it would be, because there were several obstacles along the way, which allowed me to influence my breastfeeding. Starting with the fact that they had to perform an emergency C-section after 12 hours in labor and I spent several hours without seeing my daughter after she was born.
If we add to that my first-time fears and the little information I had at the time, it is natural that I had a difficult and confusing start. At the hospital, a lactation consultant came to visit me, and it helped a little but I was in a hurry. The problem came later, when I had to do it myself, I felt lost.
I must admit, that I could do more things: Seek a lactation consultant, ask for help or investigate more about how you could better establish breastfeeding. But I guess my first-time nerves and fears betrayed me. I managed to breastfeed my daughter, but there were so many things that at that time I did not know, that she was mixed breastfeeding from the beginning until her eight months.
My return to work two months after my daughter was born didn't help either. I clung to continue breastfeeding her as much as I could, but my production was always very low and I thought it was my fault. I finally gave up and For years I charged with much regret for not giving my daughter the most valuable gift of all.
And so, today I want to dedicate this article to all mothers who are going through difficult breastfeeding or who have not been what they expected, because I would have liked someone to tell me.
For the mother who is having difficulties with breastfeeding
Quiet, take a deep breath and don't worry. Everyone told you that motherhood would be wonderful (and it is!) But maybe they forgot to mention that it also has its difficult moments. And sometimes, one of those moments may be breastfeeding.
Maybe you are starting to breastfeed your baby, maybe you have been trying for months or are about to give up because it seems like it has no solution. Maybe you even cried with your baby. I understand how you feel and I can probably guess what you're thinking.
Try to relax and don't be so hard on yourself: you are a good mother. I know you would like to have a successful breastfeeding or that you might not want to have so many obstacles, but try to relax a little. Because you are nursing and I am sure you are doing your best.
It is normal and it is okay to be afraid and doubtful, but what is not right is to call them. Believe me, no one will judge you for having questions, and as simple or obvious as they may seem it's always better to look for the answer to keep quiet.
Fortunately, you have had to be a mother at a time when we have the information at your fingertips. Use the tools and technology in your favor: Look for breastfeeding groups, write to a friend who has breastfed your children, contact a breastfeeding consultant site. Fear not, they are there to help you.
Many of the common problems about breastfeeding can be solved by investigating a little. Therefore Do not hesitate to seek information or ask for adviceSurely someone will have the answer, or maybe he even went through the same thing as you!
Motherhood is not perfect and on many occasions, it is quite unpredictable. Y if in the end you failed to breastfeed, don't be so hard on yourself, mothers who bottle feed deserve the same respect as those who breastfeed.
If you are having difficulties with breastfeeding: ask for help. Remember that you are not alone. You are doing the best you can, while learning to be a mother at the same time.
Photos | iStock
In Babies and more | "Sincere breastfeeding", the campaign that shows the different facets of breastfeeding, Everything you need to know to have a happy breastfeeding
