Don’t judge a book by its cover they say yet we all do it because its human nature.

You grow up thinking life will be all roses and butterflies only to realize its not. 

Breastfeeding was one of those unpleasant realizations for me. I just assumed I’d be able to nurse my babies because I WANTED to. It’s in your DNA once you become a mom right?

Breastfeeding is HARD whether you’re a first, second or third time mom…you get my drift. Breastfeeding does not discriminate. If you’re having difficulties, IT’S OKAY. IT’S NORMAL. Just like with pregnancies each journey is different.

I STRUGGLED. Not just a little either. I struggled A LOT! I’m still struggling.

With our oldest breastfeeding lasted about six months and even then it was one or two feedings per day. It gave me great pride but my plan was to breastfeed her an entire year.

The next time would surely be easier right? WRONG. IT WASN’T.

I was blessed with boy-girl twins (my DREAM)! My colostrum came in while in the hospital I thought I was on my way to success but I wasn’t. There just didn’t seem enough time in the day while raising two newborns and a 21 month old. In addition, our baby boy had latching issues. After about a month I quit.

The third times the charm right?

I certainly hope so.

So here I am with a 4.5 year old and TWO almost 3 year old and I’ve never been more DRIVEN to breastfeed our newest baby boy. Am I kidding myself? Time will tell I suppose…

I had no colostrum or breast milk during our hospital stay. The saga continues I thought.😢  I made the decision to bottle feed our Jaxson. I’d be lying if I say a part of me didn’t feel broken but I knew it was best for our baby. FED is best. NOT breast, NOT bottle. FED.

The next few days at home was more of the same. I would pump 15 to 30 minutes for a measely 1 to 3 ounces. It was extremely painful mentally and physically. I was sore and Jaxson was tongue-tied making it difficult to latch.

I felt defeated. I cried. But…I kept going and VOILA!!!! The angels rejoice 😁 One week of milk!!

After a week my milk came in. I pumped every 3 to 4 hours even at 2 a.m! Thanks to the hubby who woke up (even though he complained) and fed Jaxson while I pumped. I am proud to say I’ve exclusively fed Jaxson breastmilk since.  Now that I have a stock pile of milk I am nursing directly.

What made the differnce?

1. I know you dont want to hear this but HYDRATE. HYDRATE. HYDRATE. I drink 100 to 160 ounces of water daily. TIP. Drink 1 to 2 bottles everytime you pump.

1. EAT. EAT. EAT.  Who doesn’t like an exxuse to eat? I know I do. Your body needs more calories than when pregnant so eat at least six times daily. TIP:- Google lists of food that promote milk production.

1. REST.  Getting as much rest as possible is hard with a newborn. TRUST ME, I KNOW but it’s necessary.

1. SUPPORT. Find your support system preferably a mama who is/has nursed for an extensive amount of time.  The Lord blessed me with my cousin J who nursed and was a L&D nurse.

What have I tried differently?

1.  Lactaion cookies. They are a bit expensive but they do taste good. PS:- I only ate them for a week. 
2. Fennel tea. It’s a little different..an aquired taste.
3. Mothers milk…haven’t tried yet.

Here’s a long but great read to help you on your breastfeeding journey.

I am here to tell you DON’T GIVE UP MAMA. You can do it. You too can persevere. I’m rooting for you!

Good luck with your breastfeeding journey mamas!

XOXO