Overcoming Breastfeeding Struggles

When I was pregnant with my first child I knew I was going to breast feed him. I went out and purchased breast feeding books and searched the Internet for any and all information that I could find. I remember day dreaming about having him and how he would instantly latch on and everything would be perfect. Little did I know...

Shortly after giving birth, I began to have problems with breast feeding. Thankfully, there were lactation consultants at the hospital who helped me. They helped me to figure out getting him to latch. But as soon as we got home, I remember that first night being awful. I couldn't get the hang of it and I was starting to stress out if he was getting enough milk. I ended up supplementing a little those first few days.  I decided to google and thankfully found a local lactation consultant, because I was so determined to breast feed. 

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The above picture shows a generalization of how big an infants stomach is in comparison to how much milk a baby needs. 

I found a lovely office and I remember going there probably  5 times (not even kidding) within a two week period. Those ladies helped me so much. They worked with me on finding the right latch, position, what my husband could do to help me, handouts, and were just there for that encouragement I needed to continue. If it wasn't for finding those ladies I can say for a fact that I would have called it quits. I don't know how it is for others, but in my family  most people didn't/don't breast feed and have no idea what to do regarding it. It was a totally new experience for me. I strongly urge you if you are pregnant or currently nursing and you need breast feeding help to google your local lactation consultants or your local La Leche League. 

I really feel like the hardest part with breast feeding is the beginning. Once you get past the first few weeks, I promise you it gets so much easier. I went on to breast feed my oldest until he was 23 months old.  I am so proud that we made it that far after such a rocky-ready-to-throw-in-the-towel beginning.  The World Health Organization actually recommends breast feeding until 2 years old. Many people aren't aware of that or feel like once a child is one breast feeding somehow loses it's benefits which is not true at all. As long as mom and child are comfortable breast feeding then I personally don't think it matters. 

Breast feeding is such a beautiful bonding experience for mother and child.  There are a countless list of benefits for mother and child as well. I am very thankful for the opportunity to breast feed both of my babies and to help other mothers to have a successful breast feeding relationship. Just remember there are resources available to help you! Also, look into your local mom groups on Meetup.com as well for support if your family is like mine was and clueless about breastfeeding. 

If you have any questions regarding breastfeeding, please feel free to comment below! Remember the first few weeks is always the hardest, you can do this! 

Happy World Breastfeeding Week! 

This post is written by Malanda a mother of two boys, wife, and lover of all things crafty. In addition to being a contributor of The Not So Secret Confessions of a Second Time Mom, you can also find me at Outnumbered  By Little Boys!