My Breastfeeding Story for World Breastfeeding Week

Whether you are, were, or never want to be a breastfeeding mom - you can still support breastfeeding moms in your community and throughout the world.

I was a breastfeeding mom - twice - for a total of about 4 1/2 years.  Yes, I breastfed both my boys until they were over the age of 2.  That is not common in our country nor in our particular corner of the country.  But we did it - and I couldn't ask for a better experience.

I was lucky - both kids took to breastfeeding with little difficulty - I attended a class at my hospital with my first one, was visited by a lactation consultant in the hospital after giving birth, and joined a local support group after he was born.  All the odds were in my favor, and I was committed.

I remember in the class, the LC going around asking everyone to introduce themselves and their plans for feeding.  I said something like, "I'm planning to try and breastfeed".  She smiled so warmly at me and said, "no, you will breastfeed - if that's your choice" and I did.

I was a working mom, so I pumped too - I guess for about 6 months with each of the boys.  With my first I was lucky to have my own office with a door that locked.  With my second I used a lactation room, that I encouraged the company to set up in an unused space.  Not easy by any stretch of the imagination - but nothing I couldn't handle in my role as mom - provider of nourishment for my baby.

Formula was never an option for me - neither of my children ever had any to my knowledge.  Neither of my children have visited the pediatrician for more than a well visit, more than twice in their lives so far (knocking BIG wood!) My children are both smart and funny and wonderful.  I feel a close connection to them that started the minute they were born.

I am a total advocate of each woman making her own decisions.  I also understand and see that women are not provided with accurate, helpful information. as they are not in SO many of their life experiences.  My only advice - completely my very own opinion - is that formula companies are not here to feed babies. . .they are here to make money.  If they were here to feed babies, formula wouldn't cost anything, or not cost so much. That is their right - capitalism is alive and free and breastfeeding is not "for everyone" or so you've been led to believe.

I'd love it if you would share your thoughts and/or stories here. . .I did breastfeeding counseling for the Nursing Mothers Advisory Council for three years and I am a member and supporter of the Breastfeeding Resource Center - I love to hear people's stories - the good and the bad.

catch you soon -