These memories are shared by breastfeeding moms, who like myself wish to spread the word to new moms that breastfeeding can have its challenges, but it is worth practicing, seeking help, asking for support and looking for answers.
We all know the benefits of breastfeeding, but we do not instinctively know how to successfully breastfeed. We need help, advice, support and guidance – even if it is our second, third or fourth baby.
Please welcome Maggie and her story about providing all the best for her two daughters – at the same time!
I am tandem nursing my 25 month old and my 5 month old currently! A huge obstacle we face is society’s view on breastfeeding a toddler. I have to be careful of who I tell because it’s obviously not the “norm”. I was lucky that I didn’t have new nipple soreness or anything during the pregnancy. I did dry up completely at 25-27 weeks before I got colostrum again, and I would been totally ok with her weaning but she was happy to comfort nurse. When my milk first came back in I wanted to shoot myself some days because every time I would feed the newborn, I would have to feed her or a full out meltdown would ensue.
Currently we are down to 1-2 sessions/day, mostly around sleep times but I fully believe one of the reasons my toddler has never shown jealousy of her baby sister is because she didn’t feel like I took something away from her to give to the baby. The most heart-melting thing is seeing both girls nurse simultaneously (which rarely happens now btw!) and the toddler will hold the baby’s hand and rub her back. Gah! It’s so sweet 🙂
Maggie R and her two princesses
My initial goal for my first daughter was 3 months (no doubt because of society’s standards). I joined a few breastfeeding Facebook support groups and attended a few La Leche League meetings, and realized three months was going to be just the tip of the iceberg in our breastfeeding journey. We nursed through nipple confusion, oversupply, thrush (twice), a lip-tie, and sleep problems.
My second baby had a week long NICU stay, now refuses a bottle completely, and has a dairy sensitivity. I know, however, overcoming these obstacles and me providing my girls with ‘natures perfect baby food’ is well worth the effort in the long run. The bond I have with them (and that they have with each other from tandem nursing) is irreplaceable and tangible.
~Maggie R.