Like many expectant mothers, I entered motherhood with the hope of providing the best for my baby through breastfeeding. My own mother often reminisced about her cherished moments nursing, and I envisioned sharing that same special connection with my child. It seemed like the simplest and healthiest choice for feeding. However, I soon discovered that breastfeeding could also be one of the most challenging and emotionally taxing experiences of my life.
In my eagerness to embrace this journey, I overlooked the importance of attending breastfeeding classes at the hospital prior to my baby’s arrival. This oversight became evident as I struggled with the logistics of breastfeeding, from latching issues to understanding milk supply. When I had to supplement with formula due to a scare over dehydration and a delay in my milk production, I was unprepared for the potential consequences, such as nipple confusion after my baby experienced the bottle.
Reflecting on my experience, here are five truths I wish I had known beforehand, which I hope will benefit new mothers embarking on this path.
1. Your Newborn Will Seem to Eat Constantly
Initially, it may feel like your entire day revolves around feeding your baby—what I affectionately referred to as “milk stuff.” This relentless cycle can be overwhelming, especially for first-time moms. Experts confirm that it’s normal for newborns to nurse frequently, provided they are having enough wet diapers and gaining weight. A supportive nursing pillow and a cozy spot to relax while you nurse can make this period more enjoyable. I found that transitioning from my nursery to our living room allowed me to binge-watch shows on Netflix while my baby nursed.
2. Milk Production Relies on Supply and Demand
Breastfeeding operates on a simple principle: every time your baby nurses, they signal your body to produce more milk. Contrary to some advice I received to space out feedings to allow my breasts to “fill up,” frequent nursing is actually essential for boosting milk supply. As breastfeeding expert Kelly Bonyata explains, “For the most part, milk production is a ‘use it or lose it’ process.” This means that the more often and effectively your baby feeds, the more milk your body will produce.
3. Not All Babies Are Efficient Feeders
While some mothers face challenges with breastfeeding, not all babies are adept at it either. My son had tongue and lip ties that hindered his ability to feed correctly. I never knew such conditions existed! He would nurse for extended periods, only to wake up hungry shortly after. My lactation consultant explained that these ties limited his tongue’s movement, making it difficult for him to extract enough milk. Research indicates that addressing tongue-tie or lip-tie can significantly enhance breastfeeding outcomes.
4. You May Become Preoccupied with Your Baby’s Weight
It’s common for infants to lose some weight after birth, typically around 7-10%. However, when my son lost 10% of his weight by his third day, it was a frightening experience. Following our pediatrician’s advice, we began supplementing with formula until my milk supply stabilized. I felt crushed knowing my baby relied on me for nourishment yet wasn’t thriving as expected. This fear led me to pump exclusively, as it felt more reassuring to measure exactly how much milk he consumed.
5. Bottle Feeding Can Also Foster Bonding
Bonding with your baby isn’t limited to breastfeeding. The moments spent cradling a content, full baby are incredibly fulfilling. I often found that attempting to breastfeed while my baby cried in frustration was anything but bonding. Ultimately, I discovered that bottle feeding worked better for us. Even after transitioning to primarily formula, knowing my baby was satisfied and happy brought me immense comfort.
Now that my baby is nine months old, I reflect on those early days with a mix of nostalgia and sadness. I sometimes envy mothers who seem to navigate breastfeeding effortlessly. Had I been better prepared, perhaps I would have enjoyed a more successful experience. Yet, I’ve also realized that every mother faces her own challenges, whether related to breastfeeding or other aspects of motherhood. In a world dominated by social media, where only the highlight reels are shared, it’s essential to remember that many mothers are struggling behind the scenes. To any mother facing difficulties, know that you are not alone.
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Summary
Breastfeeding can be a complex journey filled with unexpected challenges. From the frequency of feedings to the nuances of milk supply and the realities of baby weight gain, many new mothers find themselves navigating a steep learning curve. Yet, understanding these aspects can help ease the transition into motherhood. Bonding with your baby can occur through various feeding methods, and it’s crucial to remember that every mother faces her unique set of challenges. Support and resources are available to guide you through this journey.