Breastfeeding was one of the hardest things I have ever done. To be honest, we didn’t get to continue our journey for very long. Judah breastfed for the first week, but we fought each other every feeding. He would get so mad! He’d cry–then I would cry. It was so sad! He would only latch for a couple minutes and then he would give up. AT his first check-up, we were told that our precious newborn had lost a whole pound and was dehydrated. We had to spend two nights at Children’s Hospital for observation. This was a first-time mother’s breastfeeding nightmare.
It was during that hospital stay that we made the emotional, prayerful decision to pump and bottle-feed him, and try breastfeeding at a later time. I was heartbroken and felt like a failure. However, my mommy instincts and, I believe, the Holy Spirit gave me the strength to do what was best for Judah. I requested a pump and got busy. My milk came in that same day and it came in big time. Judah drank up my milk in his bottles and became a totally different newborn. His tummy was full for the first time. My mommy heart was as full as his little belly!
A few weeks later we tried breastfeeding again. He got to the place where he only wanted to nurse in the mornings. I loved every second of it. I loved being able to bond in that way with my baby. Now, we exclusively pump due to our busy schedules and returning to work. Reflecting on those early days, I remember how hectic everything was. I wish I knew then what I know now. So, when the next baby comes, I have a plan. A plan to be intentional. These are the things I will do differently for our next baby to create a more successful breastfeeding journey:
#1) More skin-to-skin.
Judah and I shared that initial skin-to-skin contact but not much after that. We had a lot of visitors, which was great, but this made it difficult to go shirtless for that exposed skin my baby needed. Research shows that there are incredible benefits in this type of contact, including a strong latch.
#2) Ask for a pump.
Once that sweet bundle of joy arrives, I will get to pumping. This will help the milk supply come in quicker, making it easier for the baby to get enough milk and not have to work as hard. This trick will help knock a few days off of waiting for that supply to come in.
#3) Schedule visiting times around feedings.
It is a wonderful thing to have friends and family visit and love on your babe. However, I have heard that those first feedings are crucial in your breastfeeding journey. We were so excited, we were having visitors come in regularly. What we didn’t realize was how much this interfered with establishing a strong feeding regiment. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel comfortable asking people to step out. What I should have known is that my family and friends would have totally understood and gave us that space. They are amazing! So, next time, I will make those private feedings a priority!
#4) Nipple shields.
Nipple shields are plastic tips that cover the nipple and help the baby get a good latch. No matter what size/type of nipple you have, these could benefit you. We didn’t use these until weeks later when we started nursing in the mornings. He learned to have a stronger latch when using these, and soon was able to go without them. So, it wouldn’t hurt to have these on hand at the hospital for the baby to practice.
FED IS BEST
To conclude, let me say I believe that a fed baby is a happy, healthy baby – no matter how they are fed, breast, bottle, or formula. As mothers and women, we should always support and encourage each other. The decision on how we feed our children is tough and emotional. Stop being judgmental, and love on your momma friends.
Lastly, listen to the Lord. If we, mommas, listen to the Holy Spirit, He will speak to us. So, even though I have a plan, that doesn’t mean everything will go accordingly. My biggest plan is to listen to the Holy Spirit and do my best.
