Parenting Forums

Posted: 15 May 2007 at 10:52am | IP Logged

Thanks for this Lynie!

I breastfed my son for 11 months until he self weaned. It was a wonderful experience for us both and I still miss the closeness I felt to him whilst he fed.

I was one of the very lucky ones as I had very few problems. Edward pretty much taught me how to feed. I never doubted I'd breastfeed and I was determined to carry on through the difficult first weeks with engorgement and regular night feeds but we got there.

I found it so much easier too. For example if Edward woke in the night hungry, I reached across, latched him on and nodded back off until he'd finished then lean across and pop him back in his crib. No getting up and making bottles up for me.

Also when we went out I didnt have to make up bottles in advance, I didnt have to calculate how long I'd be out. If we ended up staying out longer it didnt matter as I had all his feeds to hand (so to speak).

I had lots of support from family and friends and I fed openly in public. (Obviously I was discrete but I never hid in the toilets or in a corner). I could carry on a conversation with someone and sometimes they wouldnt even realise I was feeding until they leant forward to stroke Edwards head! I was even complimented by strangers (male and female) for feeding my baby the natural way.

I'm so pleased I had the experience and Edward had no colds for the first 8 months of his life and has never had an ear or chest infection or serious illness.

For all those breastfeeding now or considering it in future pregnancies remember the buddy scheme can help by offering you one on one support. Access the scheme either by clicking the link below in my signature or in the community menu in the menu bar.