My Feeding Journey: Lauren Dix
So many factors come into play when breastfeeding, and it’s okay if it’s not picture-perfect right away.
By
After breastfeeding nearly 2.5 years between my babies, I feel like I’ve lived and experienced so many different emotions that come along with nursing! I’ve wanted to quit out of pain and discomfort, and I’ve felt an indescribable bond between my babies and myself. I’ve struggled to get my baby on a bottle, and I’ve sighed with relief to have moments to myself. I’ve wanted to wean and then found myself mourning the end of a breastfeeding journey. None of it is easy, but I’ve found that both of my nursing experiences have been deeply personal, emotional and well worth the struggles.
When my first was born, I took all the classes. I read the books, listened to the breastfeeding experts and felt confident that I would have breastfeeding under control. So, when a few days in, I was in quite a bit of pain and was struggling with an overabundance of milk supply, I felt like a failure. I would brace myself while my daughter latched on, and I could barely stand to wear a bra due to my chapped nipples. One day I finally broke down in tears, telling my husband I couldn’t go on if this was how nursing was going to be. Thankfully, he encouraged me to contact a lactation consultant. And with her advice and encouragement, I was able to get over those difficult first weeks.
No one ever told me that there might be some pain in the beginning. In fact, I was repeatedly told that if nursing was painful, I was doing something wrong. So, naturally I took that to heart. Should it be painful forever? Heck no! But I would never want a mom to feel like I felt while nursing for the first time! What I’ve now learned is that there is an adjustment period. My body had to figure out how much milk to make. My babies had to learn how to nurse. I had to learn how my babies were most comfortable nursing. There are so many factors that come into play, and it’s okay if it’s not a picture-perfect experience out the gate.
With my youngest, I felt much more at ease, and a lot of it had to do with experience. But it wasn’t because I had become a nursing expert and knew exactly what to do. After struggling the first time around, I had changed my expectations. I knew there would be that adjustment period when we got to know each other and found our groove. I still experienced some discomfort, chapped nipples and oversupply, but I was mentally prepared to give us the time to get to know each other.
For me, knowing what to truly expect rather than an idealized, picture-perfect version of breastfeeding is what helped me get through the most difficult stage. Those early newborn days are so precious, but between lack of sleep and surging hormones, they can also be difficult. I’m always encouraging my new mom friends who are nursing to talk about their struggles and seek help if necessary. I was lucky enough to have encouragement and support through this season of motherhood, and hopefully I can offer that to you as well. I know breastfeeding isn’t everyone’s journey, but for those of you who choose to go that route, please know that it is completely normal to struggle through an adjustment period, and if you feel overwhelmed, there is nothing wrong with seeking help.
Lauren Dix is a mama of three girls, Layla, Eliana and an angel baby, Grace, who she carried to 21 weeks of pregnancy. She lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her family and loves sharing affordable everyday fashion, beauty and motherhood tips. No matter what the circumstance, Lauren strives to be an encouragement and never wants a mama to feel like they’re on their journey alone. Follow her on Instagram and read her blog
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