Mum’s Journey: What I Learned About Persevering with Breastfeeding

Not every new mother has considered breastfeeding their baby, but, if you can, I say, why not?

There are so many articles on the Internet outlining the reasons why we should breastfeed our child. My own research showed me that breastmilk contains ideal nutrients for infants as it has the perfect mix of vitamins, protein and fat, which helps your baby grow.

I also discovered that breastmilk is easy for bub to digest compared to infant formula, which is great to know...

Welcoming Jordan Into Our Family

Flashback to a few weeks ago when I gave birth, naturally, to my baby boy, Jordan, at the Royal Hospital for Women at Randwick.

I remember when he was first born, I had already decided to breastfed him, but, to be honest, I wasn't sure exactly what I was doing! I’m so glad that I did because it was such a wonderful experience.

They say practice makes perfect, so, from then on, it was more of trial and error and learning on the job for me. Thankfully, I had the assistance of the lovely Midwives who showed me various ways to breastfeed. When it comes to breastfeeding, making sure you're comfortable is essential for bubs and yourself.

It Wasn’t All Smooth Sailing, but, it Was Worth it!

Sometimes, after breastfeeding bubs, my nipples would start to feel sore, chapped and irritated. Apparently, in the early days, this is all normal and I am so thankful for nipple cream. (I definitely couldn't live without it).

Once my milk supply started to come in, I used the Medela Freestyle Double Electric Breastpump to express and stock up on breast milk and to ease the discomfort of my full breasts.

Since then, I have been doing a mix of pumping and breastfeeding and a combination of these two works best for me. I find that when I have some breast milk stocked up in the fridge, it makes it easier because it takes some of the pressure off me at night and during the early mornings.

Breastfeeding Does Get Easier!

What I learned was that the more I did it, the more I felt comfortable and confident with breastfeeding my baby. Now breastfeeding is second nature.

It's truly a unique and beautiful experience that you get to share with your baby and even though breastfeeding can be tough... hang in there and remember, every journey if different and try not to be too hard on yourself!

What are your experiences breastfeeding as a new mother? How have you stuck with breastfeeding during the easy times and the not-so-easy times? Let’s have a chat here or on the Medela Australia Facebook page!