10/24/2022
It’s been almost exactly a year since I took this photo. I wanted to raise awareness about just how difficult breastfeeding is. No one ever told me, and maybe if someone had, I could have better prepared myself? Maybe not.
What I didn’t know at the time was that the exact moment this photo was taken was the very last time I would attempt to feed Charlotte by breast. THATS how hard it was. The frustration in my expression was very real, and even though you can’t see it, so was hers.
So what I really want to say now a whole year later is this.
Give yourself grace in your breastfeeding journey. Nothing can REALLY prepare you for it, but try anyway. Read books, blogs, talk to friends who have done it, lactation consultants…
And even after all of that, you may still find yourself struggling as much as I did. You may not.
If you do, just know it’s okay to explore other options. Some people WILL tell you differently. They are wrong.
People will also try to encourage you to let it go and move on. It’s okay to not listen to them either. Do everything on YOUR terms.
Please know you are not alone! Some people make it look easy, and that may be discouraging. Just know that it is never easy, just sometimes not as hard for others.
And lastly, try not to be intimidated! Breastfeeding is a magical thing. What our bodies can do for our babies is magical. The bond between you and baby is magical! But your bond with your baby will be magical NO MATTER WHAT 💕
