You may have taken a breastfeeding class, skimmed through pamphlets at the doctor’s office, or even spent hours researching online. You’re aware that breast milk is nutritionally superior, that you might shed those pregnancy pounds more quickly, and that you’ll share a magical bonding experience with your little one. However, here are 15 things they might not mention about breastfeeding…
- It’s painful. Imagine a thousand tiny knives twisting your nipple every time your baby latches on—and you’ll find yourself obsessing over that minuscule latch!
- Your newborn will want to nurse around the clock. Sure, they say nursing burns calories, but what they don’t tell you is that you’ll be so busy feeding that you might forget to eat yourself!
- Your baby will keep nursing long after you think there’s nothing left—at times, it’ll feel like she’s trying to suck your very essence out through your nipples.
- You might become envious of your partner for not having to deal with breastfeeding. Why did women get the biological short straw? Why does he get to keep drinking? If anyone deserves a stiff cocktail, it’s you!
- You’ll feel a bit cheated. All that uplifting literature didn’t adequately capture how exhausting it is to cater to the whims of the world’s tiniest and fussiest drill sergeant.
- You bet women in remote villages don’t sit around talking about the emotional bonding of breastfeeding; they just feed their babies. Formula might start to look pretty appealing right about now.
- Even after you give your baby formula (which your well-meaning friend said would help her sleep), she’ll still be rooting for you within 45 minutes.
- You’ll shed tears when the pediatrician reassures you that formula isn’t toxic and can be a suitable alternative. Honestly, you might cry at anything right now; it’s been 72 hours since you last got a good night’s sleep!
- You’ll also tear up if your baby seems to prefer formula too much. Isn’t this your role as a woman? You might feel like a failure.
- When your partner asks why you complain about breastfeeding, you’ll be tempted to leap off the couch and give him a playful nip twist while shouting, “How do you like that?” But you’ll refrain—exercise clearance is still pending!
- You’ll try pumping and feel disheartened when you only manage to collect half an ounce from each side. That’s barely enough to quiet your little monster for ten minutes.
- One day, you’ll suddenly realize that it’s 6:00 PM, and you can’t remember if you’ve even showered or brushed your teeth.
- Nursing covers? Total scam. Your baby will scream and sweat under it, leaving you feeling like a bad mom for attempting to avoid flashing the entire café.
- But you’re resilient. You’re determined. You can handle this.
- And if it doesn’t work out, or if you can’t continue, the world won’t end. Really, it won’t.
For more insights into the journey of motherhood, check out this post on home insemination. And if you’re looking for expert advice, Make A Mom is a fantastic resource for all things related to self insemination. Additionally, Parents provides excellent information for those navigating the intricacies of pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, breastfeeding is not just a beautiful bonding experience; it can also be a challenging and exhausting journey filled with unexpected twists. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many mothers share these feelings. Embrace the journey, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.