Feeding a baby is no small feat, whether through breastfeeding, formula, supplementing, or exclusive pumping. Each method comes with its unique set of challenges. One mother, Emily Johnson, decided to share her journey with the breast pump in a heartfelt and visually striking photoshoot that resonates with many moms.
In her Facebook post, Emily expresses her solidarity with other moms, stating, “This is for the mom who always envisioned nursing her baby but faced obstacles.” She continues, “This is for the mom who feels that every 10 minutes connected to the pump feels like an eternity. This is for the mom who knows the lactation clinic staff on a first-name basis and for the one who feels trapped at home, unable to leave because by the time she pumps, showers, tends to the baby, and walks the dog, it’s time to pump again.”
While there is a wealth of articles focused on formula feeding and breastfeeding, exclusive pumping often flies under the radar. The beautiful, dreamy images of mothers nursing their babies are plentiful, so why shouldn’t those who pump showcase their own experiences?
Captured by photographer Sarah Mitchell of Images By Sarah, the photographs depict Emily looking radiant, even while holding her breast pump. Her post highlights the struggles many face, stating, “This is for the mom battling the agony of mastitis. This is for the mom pumping in her car, wishing for tinted windows. This is for the mom craving that oat stout beer, hoping it will help increase her supply, but really just wanting something for herself.”
Not every mother can breastfeed due to various difficulties, including painful latches or low supply. Emily, who spoke with Home Insemination Kit about her experience, shared that she stopped attempting to nurse after three and a half months due to extreme discomfort. She credits an online support group for helping her embrace exclusive pumping and aims to shed light on the “EPing” community.
“I had been thinking about this shoot for months,” Emily told Home Insemination Kit. “Pumping is incredibly challenging, and I felt we needed an homage similar to those celebrating nursing mothers.”
In her heartfelt post, she encourages other pumping mothers to celebrate their journeys: “Know that you’re beautiful, know that pumping is beautiful, know that you’re doing your best. Remember, you are not alone, and no matter what, YOUR BABY LOVES YOU!”
While Emily supports all feeding methods, she emphasizes, “This is my personal experience, one that holds a special place in my heart. Ultimately, we are all supermoms.”
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In summary, Emily Johnson’s photoshoot is a striking celebration of the challenges and beauty of exclusive pumping, encouraging mothers to embrace their unique journeys and reminding them they are not alone in their struggles.