A few months ago, while in Barnes and Noble, I overheard two women discussing breastfeeding. Both women had babies with them, no more than three months old. One woman stated to the other she would soon stop breastfeeding, switching her baby to formula. Her friend candidly expressed she didn’t think this was ideal. The woman simply responded, “I have to stop. I’ll be starting chemotherapy next week.”
Witnessing that encounter brought me to the thought of, why are we so critical of women who choose not to breastfeed? It wasn’t until her friend gave a devastating and sympathetic reason that she was receptive to her decision. But why did she have to give a reason? What if she wanted to stop simply because she just wanted to? Is that not her right?
Breastfeeding has become a topic covered in many forums for mothers. At times, some of the comments and opinions conveyed can be harsh. Women who may not want to breastfeed second guess their decision. The pressure to breastfeed and not disappoint society is REAL!
I have had different experiences with breastfeeding. With my eldest, I elected not to breastfeed. I was young, a freshman in college, and didn’t have the knowledge I now have about breastfeeding. Between being a full-time student and working full-time, the formula was convenient. With my second, I was more educated. While on maternity leave, I breastfed. When I returned to work, I only breastfed at night. Eventually, my hectic schedule and lifestyle caught up with me. I was working, in school, and a full-time mother to two small children. I moved from breastfeeding to formula. Lastly, I breastfed my youngest for five months. A point came in which I could no longer keep up with my baby’s appetite; I was unable to produce enough milk.
These are the options that worked for me. Ultimately, it is up to each mother to decide what works best for her and her baby. If you’re a first-time mom, and you have to consult with someone, discuss this with your baby’s pediatrician or another healthcare professional that specializes in this area.
Motherhood is not scripted. New moms soon learn that on the journey of motherhood, what you want to do isn’t always what you have to do. Motherhood tends to take a direction of its own. There are instances in which a mother would like to breastfeed but simply cannot. This can be a result of the mother’s health issues, latching issues or the baby is premature.
I’ll close with a quote I read somewhere. I’m not sure of the author. “We need more women willing to say, I’ve been there and I’m here for you. You can always talk to me without judgment.” Ladies, let’s stick together. Offer support to one another regardless of the different opinions, views, and beliefs. Being and doing different is okay.
Intuitive Intuition 