Blogger Sarah Leng wants to remind mothers that there’s no such thing as “failing” at breastfeeding, a message that resonates deeply with many. As a first-time mom, you might expect breastfeeding to be instinctive and straightforward. However, Sarah highlights the reality that it can often be quite challenging.
In a viral post on her Facebook page, she shared a candid photo of herself “napping while feeding twins” and expressed the struggles many face in getting their newborns to latch properly.
Facing the Reality of Breastfeeding
She wrote: “When I was expecting my first child, I envisioned the beautiful connection we’d share — the tender moments of suckling, stroking their hair, and basking in a serene glow. What I didn’t anticipate was the harsh reality of dealing with bleeding, cracked nipples while a baby innocently suckled, causing me immense pain. Trust me, it wasn’t a pretty sight.”
Sarah, who is no stranger to going viral for her relatable parenting anecdotes, emphasizes that while breastfeeding is often seen as a natural act, not every baby comes out knowing how to latch. “Some need guidance, and teaching a baby to feed can be tough and frustrating,” she explains. This is especially true for mothers of premature babies or those facing feeding issues.
And don’t even get her started on pumping! She humorously adds, “Expressing milk can be such a hassle. I’ve had three preemies, which means lots of pumping. Now, I have a rule: if I need to pump, I’m switching to formula. Nothing is worth that struggle!”
The Importance of Self-Care
Sarah shares that her twins self-weaned at six months — likely because she was primarily feeding them formula — and that did not diminish her bond with them. In fact, she feels their relationship grew stronger as she prioritized her own well-being.
The prevailing message about breastfeeding is often “breast is best,” but it’s crucial to consider what’s best for moms too. While some women thrive with breastfeeding, others encounter challenges such as latching issues, low milk supply, or postpartum depression. The key takeaway is that whatever route you take to ensure your baby is fed and you stay healthy is what truly matters.
As Sarah passionately states, there’s no such thing as “failing” at breastfeeding: “My bond with my children has deepened as I’ve felt calmer and more content. Never view yourself as failing at breastfeeding. Mothers are not failures; we find solutions that work for our families.”
Resources for Expecting Mothers
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Conclusion
In summary, Sarah Leng’s message to mothers is clear: there is no failure in breastfeeding. Every mother’s journey is unique, and the most important thing is ensuring your baby is fed and that you are taking care of yourself.