Pieces of Wisdom From A Breastfeeding Mother

I am a breastfeeding mother and I won't be true if I say the journey from being expected to lactating is a smooth one. However, it is a glorious one indeed. After one year of successful breastfeeding, including the initial six months of exclusive breastfeeding, here are snippets of mommy wisdom that I wish I knew when I  started my breastfeeding journey.

1. Milk starts coming two to four days post delivery.  So hang on mommy. Relax and let your munchkin learn to latch on.

2. Some babies learn to latch on quicker than others. It doesn't make you a bad mother if your baby takes a little longer than expected to latch on.

3. The more you breastfeed the more you produce milk.

4. Size of your breast is not related to your milk quantity.

5. The initial phase of breastfeeding seems tough to most. But it can be made comfortable by making small changes.

6. While breastfeeding, sit in a comfortable position and support yourself with pillows.

7. I noticed during my breastfeeding journey that whenever I feed my baby, I too felt hungry and thirsty. So yes, keep a bottle of water and some healthy snacks near you while feeding your baby.

8. Keep yourself well hydrated.

9. Mood affects milk supply. Calm and relaxed mother equals happy and well fed baby.

10. Breastfeeding is the greatest way to know and bond with your baby.

At times we mothers start to doubt our ability to feed our baby. But as you see your baby grow stronger and stronger every day your trust in your body's ability will be restored. Every single day of breastfeeding is like an iron foundation of a strong mother.

The journey of months of hopelessness, engorgement, milk overflow, stained t shirts, occasional public spectacle, feeding marathons is tough but seeing your little one grow stronger and happier with the nourishment and protection of breastfeeding is indeed empowering. Breastfeeding is tough yet emancipating.

Also Read: Things I Miss While Raising Children In A Foreign Country

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