I have had so many people ask me why are you still breastfeeding? My first thought is because my child needs milk! If you aren't breastfeeding your child normally you would formula feed your child until they were a year old. So why would I stop breastfeeding Sprout now and switch her to formula which would potentially upset her stomach. I wouldn't. Let me start by saying I am thankful there are mothers that formula feed their children and for those that breastfeed theirs as well. We are all trying to do our best. Our children are what is important here, not our thoughts or opinions or even those judging looks as I try to feed my child in public.
Sprout doesn't eat with a cover over her head. I don't so why should she. Yes, I try to be discreet. I normally go the car or go some where that doesn't have a lot of people around just because I want to feed my child and really do not want to get in to it with others. I have fed her in public before. If she is hungry, I will feed her. Just as if you were hungry, I would want you to eat and not have to wait. Besides the fact that Sprout needs milk it is also a comfort to her. If she isn't feeling well, or is upset then she may comfort feed. You know what that is okay. I want my child to feel safe. I want her to know I am there for her. Just as when she cries, I go to her. I want her to have my trust and know that mommy would not leave her. I don't like crying, or sobbing and not having anyone comfort me or ask me what is wrong so I can imagine it is the same for her. It is also way easier for me to breastfeed. I just have to lift up my shirt and her milk is ready. At 4 am when she wakes up hungry, I don't have to go and fix a bottle and make sure the temperature is just right. It is already prepared. A bonus for me because I get to go back to sleep sooner and I don't have extra dishes to wash. People have also asked me "Why don't you pump?" I have pumped. I did everyday for the first couple months after Sprout was born, simply because other people wanted to feed her. I have respect for every mother that pumps! It was hard for me, I barely pumped anything and I know that I was producing so much more. The pump and I were just not a fit. All the wires had to be cleaned and I really wasn't going anywhere. People really weren't coming to see us that much. So now I pump when it is a necessity. If I have to have a lumbar puncture for my IIH, or if there is any reason I won't be around Sprout. Besides, that I am always with her, so her milk is always there. I know people want to feed her but now she is bigger and they can give her baby food and let her sling it on them! When will I stop breastfeeding? I honestly don't know. At first I just wanted to make it to 6 months and now I am hoping for a year. But when a year comes, I am not just going stop. If she isn't ready to be weaned and my supply is still up, I will keep feeding her. I personally don't plan on doing it longer than two years old but we will see what the future holds. I am so thankful for all of you Mothers out there. Keep up the good work. Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding or child has moved on to regular milk, you are doing great. You have made it this far. Each day should be celebrated because motherhood can be hard. So don't give up. Just keep smiling and look at your little one and let them know you love them. Wishing you all a wonderful week! Megan +
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AuthorMegan, a stay home mom who wants to try new products and let you know what I think of them! Archives
November 2017
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