Now that I am actually breastfeeding I am lucky enough to have had no major problems and no supply issues. I had a bit of thrush early on but that was quickly resolved by applying yeast cream to the nips (yes, I put vag yeast cream on my boobs!). E seems to enjoy breastfeeding as much as I do and it just feels so natural.
Now that I've been breastfeeding for 7.5 months I'm starting to get comments from various people about when I am going to stop. Why do people feel the need to ask this? Why would I consider stopping? Why would I share this personal information with others??? I completely understand if a family member or close friend were to ask this if they were truly curious but I get this comment from people I barely know and from co-workers.
My standard answer is I'll stop when he wants to. And I get various reactions. Some are shocked that I would even think about breastfeeding after he gets teeth or after he turns one. Others ask if he wants to keep breastfeeding until he's in school will I continue. And sometimes I get the jaw-drop. "Seriously? You'd breastfeed for that long? Isn't that a bit weird?" Again, there's a line... and they just crossed it. I shouldn't have to justify myself with regards to how I raise/care for my child.
And FWIW, I will probably try to wean E when he's two if he hasn't already done so himself. I don't mind getting through the teething. I don't mind the night wakings. I don't mind his using me for comfort by nursing. I actually quite enjoy it. I am nourishing my baby and he is thriving. And if he chooses to earlier than we'll do that.
This post is in no way criticizing those who choose to formula feed, or who breastfeed for a few months. I think that whatever works out best for the family is the best thing to do. And this works for us.
Now you tell me how you feel on the subject. I know I don't have a lot of readers but those of you who read my blog... let me know how you feel :)
4 comment(s) with love:
I have a nurse friend who is a lactation consultant at Miller's Children's Hospital in Long Beach.
She had 5 sons and two were twins..she breastfed forever...a Mother breastfeeds for no particular length of time......it is totally between Mother and Baby.....you totally have it right, Danielle, that when one or both of you are "bored" with it, you start weaning. EJ will let you know! One of my most fond memories of my 3 babies was that I was able to successfully breastfeed and each of the 3 were totally unique in the length of time. People are people and they like to show an interest and give their opinion even when not asked so just be the great Mom you are and listen to your own heart and counsel. Love you and love your blog!!!
World Health Organization says AT LEAST a year!! Ah and I read somewhere that if you look at brain development, level of independence, etc. compared to other mammals, we shouldn't wean until our kids are 4!
I pisses me off when people shame you about breastfeeding (or not breastfeeding for that matter). Really, non of their business, why do they feel like they know best for YOU. I am 100% with you on this. I have to say though that before I had a baby I would have thought bfing at 2 was weird, now that I have a baby it makes me sad to think that she will ever stop wanting me to nourish and comfort her, no matter what her age.
Side note though, I have decided to stop pumping at work. It was making me miserable and stressing me out. I made it to 6 months and now I will try to bf at home as much as I can, but when I'm out I'm out and I think I'm okay with that. But like I said, the thought of stopping bfing makes me sad. I figure if I can't be nourishment I can at least be comfort right??
Oh Dani, I just now am reading this. Not sure why people want to voice their opinion when it's not asked for, and breastfeeding for some reason is one of those things that EVERYONE seems to have an opinion about, especially those without kids.
For me personally my goal is one year (as it was with Belle, but I was okay when she weaned herself at 9 months) and if it's a bit longer great, or a bit shorter, okay.
My girlfriend chose not to breastfeed at all with both kids, and while I don't understand that decision, I certainly am not going to give my opinion when she knows what she wants. It's her life, her kids and she has to do what's best for her!!!
You go sister!
xo
Tessa
Post a Comment