Fear not, this is not a one way is better than the other debate. This is simply my story and my view. I think whatever works best for you is how you should be doing it.
With that being said, I was terrified to go into labor because I had no idea what I wanted to do. Part of me wanted to breast feed because I know it is better for the baby and I was breastfed and it is just what I am supposed to be doing. I have many friends who would criticize my mothering if I didn’t breastfeed, not that it would bother me because I think it’s ridiculous, but I also thought if everyone else could do it, then I should probably try.
The other, more practical side of me didn’t want any part of it. I have other friends who didn’t breast feed and they could come and go as they pleased. They could leave their child for hours at a time, knowing all the babysitter had to do was mix up some formula and bam, the baby has food. In addition, if we were out somewhere, they didn’t have to find somewhere private to go (because I am so not into exposing my breasts in public!), they could just mix up a little formula and feed on the go.
I know that I can pump, but that takes time and effort. I am barely organized enough to clean the house and remember to grab the coupons I need to get to the store, how am I going to label and store breast milk.
This was a decision for me that literally came down to the last few days. Even in labor I was confused. I brought it up to Kevin at about 6 centimeters dilated and he basically made the decision for me… breast. He reasoned that because I quit my job and money has been tight until I can go back to work at least part time, that I should try my hardest (he understands that some women just can’t do it) to breastfeed for, if no other reason, to save money.
This sounded fair enough and since I already checked my insurance and found that they covered my Medela pump at 100% I would give it a try.
Thank God I did. I really think it is my favorite part of being a mom! I absolutely love the time I get to spend with my little girl, just the two of us. It is also a time I use for my own quiet time and reflection (and a little iphone Facebook stalking when I start to get bored!) It has come so naturally for me, I now pray I never need to use formula!
If you are a mom on the fence, I will tell you to give it a try. All of my fears are gone and I think because I was so on the fence about it and really felt I could go either way, I never got nervous that it wouldn’t work. I really believe it is because of my relaxed state that I never had any problems and it was never frustrating for me or for Lily. I will continue to maintain my stance that whatever works for you is what is best for you, but I am so glad I tried it!
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