Four kids later we figured it out – Jennifer’s Journey

 

It took 4 kids, and 14 years to finally get it right. From the time my oldest was born, I had no support system. Even my grandma, who told stories of near-starvation and great financial despair in the 1950s, had somehow managed to formula feed. No one on either side of the family had breastfed for SEVERAL generations. I figured, it was natural, so it would be easy. I was wrong. From unsupportive Labor and Delivery nurses, home to family that was convinced my first baby was going to starve. We didn't stand a chance. I bought a mediocre pump at Walmart and tried that but my measly one ounce defeated me and my milk never really seemed to come in. I caved in to formula. My son suffered and was sick nearly every week for his first year. There were many fevers and trips to the ER.

When my second son was born, I was much more determined. I didn't want this one to be sickly, and I would do whatever I could to help him. Still lacking support, we failed at attempting breastfeeding once again, but this time my milk came in at least! We rented a hospital grade pump for 10 months. With me back at work, I pumped day and night and kept my little one well fed. I failed at breastfeeding, but at least he was still getting breast milk. 

With son #3, I knew I could do at least as much. I bought a good pump and didn't even try breastfeeding. I decided my large chest size was the problem and there was nothing I could do about it. I pumped for 7 months. 

 Fast forward a few years, and several life changes later. I have a new husband, a new life, and now a daughter. My Mother-in-Law told stories of how my husband nursed until he was 2 1/2! She came to help care for us when Olivia was born. My husband had attended "Daddy Boot Camp" at our delivery hospital, and he was DETERMINED to support me in this breastfeeding journey. It helped A LOT. I'd say it made all the difference, but it still wasn't easy. First we dealt with jaundice, which required extra feedings. That meant breastfeeding as much as baby would allow, and then pumping and bottle feeding even more. This lead to challenge number two: nipple/bottle confusion. Every day seemed to bring new challenges, positioning problems, nipple pain, soreness... It was a solid 3 months of trial and error before it all fell into place and got "easy". From 6 months on, we tried introducing solid foods, but she wanted nothing to do with it and continued to exclusively breastfeed well past 12 months. Now at 18 months we are at about 50/50 and happy to let her continue breastfeeding for now. What I enjoy the most about breastfeeding is the intimacy and bonding that occurs with my child. For me, having fed my babies several ways, nothing compares… period.

I definitely recommend breastfeeding to other moms that are able. The support at home has been and is absolutely essential. Also, we are so fortunate to live at such a time when the internet is available. It is a wealth of information, help, and other's experiences right at our fingertips.