When I was a first timer back in 2008, breastfeeding felt strange especially at the start. I would have given up soon after giving birth if not for the wonderful support of my mom and my ob/family doctor. Ava would wail and cry and even if I was giving my breast, she wouldn’t latch. My mom would be the one to carry her while I tried to position myself. It felt as if she wasn’t getting any milk at all. But my ob/family doctor said my milk will come in a few days, to just keep nursing.
True enough, in a few days, white creamy milk came. And wow, for the first time in my life, I had a cup B. Wowee!
I had to stop breastfeeding cold turkey when Ava was 5 ½ months old because I was diagnosed with a hyperthyroid. I wasn’t comfortable taking medication and breastfeeding at the same time.
This time, with Emilio, I resolved to breastfeed for as long as I can. The challenges of breastfeeding then vs now with a two year old as well as balancing a bigger household, moving houses right after giving birth and a full time job are very different. I was calmer when he wouldn't latch at the start. I also no longer have the fear of not producing enough milk but I do worry about finding the time and energy to breastfeed on top of my other duties. I also noticed my milk would decrease whenever I was stressed out or physically tired.
Here I am just a few days shy of 5 months and still going strong. I'm breastfeeding as I type this but let me share these 2 tips, many more to follow later.
Tip 1: Air dry your breasts after a feeding. I also didn’t put any creams or lotions on my breasts. I never had cracked or sore nipples with Ava or Emilio.
Tip 2: Nurse directly at every opportunity. Baby empties the breast better than any pump can. My brothers and sisters can attest, I am not ashamed to breastfeed in public or even as we hang around just talking. Unfortunately, Emilio isn’t too fond of nursing covers (or any cover for that matter) so I have to just whip out a breast (but try to be discreet about it) when he’s hungry.
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