Breastfeeding: the most natural thing a woman can do for her baby, but also one of the most challenging things of motherhood. Intimidating…but rewarding. Here are 5 things no one tells you about breastfeeding:
1. Cluster Feeding
THIS ONE. Sure your baby just ate 30 minutes ago but they are hungry again Mama. This is especially common in the first 3 months of the baby’s life and, will taper off as they get older and on a more routine schedule. Although time consuming, this is how you build a successful milk supply.
2. Clogged Ducts or Mastitis
OUCH! Yeah if you have ever had a clogged duct or two, they are so painful. And especially more painful if it leads to Mastitis. With a clogged duct you can usually handle it at home with warm compress, gentle massage, pumping/breastfeeding. With mastitis, you may feel like flu-like symptoms and it may lead to a trip to the doctor for antibiotics,
3. Some People (even family) May be Weird About Breastfeeding.
This one was a shocker to me! Breastfeeding is natural and I never thought anyone would be “weird” about it. But oh boy. I felt shunned or as if I always needed to go in another room, in my own house if we had visitors over. This one was the biggest shock to me.
4. You Are Hungry … ALL. The. Time.
I did not see this coming and I don’t know why I didn’t . Our bodies are feeding another human so of-course we need extra calories to nourish not only our babies but our bodies to continue creating the milk. Just be prepared to be hungry all the time... even more so than when you were pregnant!
5. The bond
Sure I told you a few “unexpected” things to expect when you are breast feeding but one incredible thing you create with your baby is a beautiful bond. It is something you and your baby will carry for the rest of your life and it makes all the other things worth it 1,000 times over. Don’t sweat the little things and remember the long lasting bond you create.
Breastfeeding is no easy task but it’s one of the best things you’ll ever do as a mom.