My little one is eight months old and she is breastfed. I plan on breastfeeding her until she is at least one year old. Sure she has solid food as well, but she barely ever has a bottle. And when she does it is expressed breast milk. I feel it is the best thing for her. I am a breastfeeding mother.
There I said it; now feel free to tell me your opinion. No, really, I mean it. Tell me your opinion. Just don’t yell at me, or tell me that I should give my child a bottle. Don’t tell me that formula won’t hurt her. I am not stupid; I know that formula won’t hurt her. I just choose not to give it to her. It is my decision. After all I am her mother and I have that right. I feel lucky that I can breastfed her. Not all women are blessed with that gift to give their children.
Breastfeeding is not easy; in fact it is very difficult. I had a hard time the first few months. There was pain, soreness and cracked nipples. I was a wreck, but my baby and I made it through with help and support. Support can come in all shapes and sizes. For me the best support was and still is stories, personal stories and experiences that other moms take the time to share with me. Like the stories that are shared at breastfeedingblog.com or thelactivist.blogspot.com – both sites offer personal stories and news stories from real breastfeeding moms. What amazing women!
And of course, there are the wonderful ladies on MOMS. Anytime I have a frustration or concern they are always there to talk it out with me. With an online community like that, a girl like me can share opinions on everything, not just breast feeding. Next up on my list: potty training. Yikes, I might need help with that one. Where are the MOMS at?
Not a member of MOMS? We would love to chat with you! Check us out at www.momsoms.com
July 9, 2008 at 6:43 am
I also had a difficult first few months breastfeeding my first child, but I was tenacious! I sought out the help of LaLeche, lactation specialists, and other more experienced moms. My mom friends were invaluable… and my son and I finally got it right! With my next two children things went much more smoothly…and I nursed all 3 kids for their first year of life.
July 28, 2008 at 6:38 am
Breastfeeding is not always the loving, serene moments you see in magazines and movies. I spent many nights crying through it, and almost gave my daughter formula many times. But I wanted to do it so badly that I pushed through and didn’t give in. It is a wonderful gift to give your children, if it is something that you can do.