Producing milk sits on the long list of incredible feats of which mothers are capable. For some, there are parts of breastfeeding that seem to happen automatically, going unnoticed by a breastfeeding mom, unfortunately for others, there are many parts of breastfeeding that are difficult and painful and will certainly be noticed. Sometimes, the behind-the-scenes reality of milk production can feel seamless, but the front-of-house experience can be immensely challenging. That’s the reality of every breastfeeding journey.
As with many elements of motherhood, there are highs, lows, pain, wonder, joy and sadness evoked by breastfeeding and, even if you breastfeed for two hours, two days, two years or not at all, we encourage you to Drink it all in.
In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, we’re throwing to our BLANQI tribe to share some of their experiences with breastfeeding. Every journey is different, every experience is valid and, no matter how you feed, you’re a marvel, mama.
“The behind-the-scenes reality of milk production can feel seamless, but the front-of-house experience can be immensely challenging.”
Breastfeeding did not come easy. I wasn’t able to breastfeed my first two kids. I couldn’t get the latch right, so I had to pump. My babies I delivered with midwives have successfully breastfed with relative ease. That’s because both midwives protected those sacred moments after birth. They ensured that my babies latched and fed right away. I breastfed Margot for 2 years and Mavey has made it to the 8 month mark.
“Breastfeeding did not come easy.”
I’m going to be chatting more about my breastfeeding journey because I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to nourish my babies and know that people often have questions. It’s such a bonding experience that I’ll always remember and appreciate dearly.
Follow Christian momma of 4s journey @athomewithchristian
As a mom of 5, some of my most cherished moments have been when I’m nursing my sweet babes. I feel like I’ve grown so much as a mom over the last 10 years, and my confidence when it comes to breastfeeding doesn’t fall short of that. Experiencing these moments with my last baby are especially bittersweet as I know it will be my last time sharing a bond like this.
“There’s nothing like the way your baby looks up at you while nursing...”
There’s nothing like the way your baby looks up at you while nursing, or when they stop and let go of their latch just to give you a smile, or fall asleep at the comfort of your chest - all while knowing you’re giving them something noone else can. It’s something I’ll always be grateful for.
Follow Marina momma of 4s journey @marinaaafranco
Breastfeeding: The pain, the recurring mastitis, the cracked and bleeding nipples, the tears, the engorgement, the low supplies, the pumping after each feed to increase the supplies, the supplements to take, having to watch what I eat to make sure I don’t give my babies a sore belly, seeing IBCLC weekly and other specialists to make sure I give this my best and get the most support & so much more.
“The pain, the recurring mastitis, the cracked and bleeding nipples, the tears, the engorgement...”
Please, stop telling me I’m lucky to have been able to breastfeed. It had nothing to do with luck. Even with all the downs & the tears, I would do it all over again. The joy & love it brings me is worth it. I only wish I could have breastfed my twinnies together.
Follow Estelle momma of 4s journey @thatfrenchmama
The hardest part of being a mum has been breastfeeding. I can’t seem to get it right. It constantly hurts each and every time. It’s exhausting to keep persisting and feeling like I’m not getting anywhere. But the main thing is I am persisting to get it right. Is my baby getting enough? Will it ever stop hurting?
“The hardest part of being a mum has been breastfeeding. I can’t seem to get it right.”
Constantly crying and screaming at myself in frustration for it not being ‘easy’ like everyone else seems to make it look. I’m over two weeks in, currently have mastitis, on my second round of antibiotics (which, mind you, I’ve had more antibiotics in 2 weeks than 10 years). Everyone keeps saying there’s a light at the end, waiting to see a speck.
Follow first time Mom and BLANQI model Leah’s journey @leahjay_
As with everything motherhood, I got mixed advice on whether to express colostrum before birth. I didn’t do it. But I found I had to in the early days of learning how to breastfeed when my nippies were damaged. I needed a break!
“I’ve learned to be more mindful of my multitasking.”
Pumping in a relaxed way is best! But sometimes we need to get things done. I now start each session with a quick massage and meditation to help milk flow.
Follow first time Mom and BLANQI model Bianca’s journey @bianca_king
