A Reflection During Breastfeeding Awareness Week
As Breastfeeding Awareness Week unfurls its message of empowerment and understanding, I find myself diving even deeper into the layers of my breastfeeding journey as a new mom. This incredible ride has been filled with beautiful moments, heart-wrenching struggles, and above all, the necessity for a strong support system.
Join me as I unveil the intricacies of breastfeeding, the emotional challenges faced, and the pivotal role of support during this phase.
Motherhood is often depicted as a blissful journey, filled with tender moments and unwavering love. However, the reality is that this journey is layered, complex, and often marred with challenges. One such challenge is breastfeeding—a topic that goes beyond just nourishing a baby.
**The Struggle of Breastfeeding: Reality vs. Expectation**
Amid the enchanting daydreams of motherhood, the harsh reality of breastfeeding hit me like a tidal wave. The initial days were a whirlwind of cracked and very sore nipples and even more sleepless nights. The image of serenity I had conjured up was replaced by raw and real challenges. The weight of inadequacy bore down on me as I grappled with the notion that I might not be cut out for this fundamental aspect of motherhood.
**The Balancing Act: Combined Feeding**
Amidst the labyrinth of breastfeeding struggles, the concept of combined feeding emerged like a lifeline when Lila was about four and half months old. I was exhausted with feeds every two hours, a house full of ("well intentioned" guests), working, pumping and all of this with my husband being away. Juggling the benefits of breast milk and formula was both a pragmatic solution and an emotional choice. Yet, it wasn't without its share of guilt and self-doubt. The delicate balance between nurturing my baby's needs and preserving my sanity became a tightrope I navigated each day. It's crucial to remember that every mother's journey is unique and there's no one-size-fits-all approach.
**The Unspoken Burden: Lack of Emotional Support**
In the midst of the physical battles, the weight of emotional isolation became increasingly palpable. Conversations around breastfeeding often skimmed the surface, sidestepping the emotional turbulence many new moms encounter. The loneliness, self-doubt, and judgment I felt were emotions I kept mostly concealed. This experience highlighted the dire need for a compassionate and understanding community, where open conversations can thrive, and judgment is replaced by empathy.
Other things to remember - knowledge is (YOUR) power
Hormones in the Spotlight
Hormones play a central role in the breastfeeding journey, orchestrating a symphony of physiological responses. As a woman embarks on this journey, her body undergoes a hormonal dance that not only facilitates milk production but also impacts her mental well-being.
1. The Hormonal Symphony:
a. Prolactin: The Milk-Producing Maestro: Prolactin takes center stage during breastfeeding. This hormone stimulates milk production, encouraging the mammary glands to produce and release the liquid gold that nourishes your baby. Prolactin also creates a sense of relaxation, fostering a deep bond between mother and child.
b. Oxytocin: The Bonding Hormone: Known as the "cuddle hormone" or "love hormone," oxytocin plays a vital role in breastfeeding. It triggers the let-down reflex, causing milk to flow. Beyond milk release, oxytocin fosters emotional connections and reduces stress, creating a nurturing environment for both mother and baby.
c. Oestrogen and Progesterone: The Behind-the-Scenes Duo: During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone levels soar. After childbirth, these hormones undergo significant changes. While breastfeeding can suppress oestrogen production, progesterone levels return to pre-pregnancy levels, helping to regulate menstrual cycles.
2. The Dance of Weight:
(**Weighing In: Potential Weight Retention and Breastfeeding**
Beneath the surface of breastfeeding discussions lies a subject that seldom sees the light of day: the potential for weight retention. A study published in PubMed delved into the intricate relationship between breastfeeding and weight changes/retention. Read more here - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. While many women experience weight loss during the breastfeeding period due to the energy expended in producing milk, there is also a phenomenon known as weight retention. This refers to the moderate retention of approximately 8-10 pounds (3.6 - 4.5kg) weight that some women might experience during their breastfeeding journey. This weight retention can be attributed to various factors, including hormonal fluctuations, increased appetite, and the body's natural inclination to store some extra fat reserves to support lactation. It's important to note that weight retention during breastfeeding is a normal physiological response and can vary greatly among individuals.)
a. Calorie Burn: Breastfeeding demands energy, and it can burn an additional 300-500 calories per day. This increased calorie expenditure can aid in postpartum weight loss, gradually returning you to your pre-pregnancy weight.
b. Fat Stores Utilisation: Your body taps into its fat stores during lactation to support milk production. This natural process allows for gradual weight loss over time as you provide essential nutrition for your baby.
c. Hunger and Appetite: Breastfeeding can influence hunger and appetite patterns. Some mothers experience increased hunger and cravings, while others notice a decreased appetite. It's crucial to listen to your body's cues, nourishing yourself with balanced, nutrient-dense meals.
3. Navigating the Journey:
a. Embrace Your Body's Rhythm: Recognise that weight loss during breastfeeding is a gradual process. Embrace your body's unique journey and focus on overall health and well-being rather than fixating solely on weight.
b. Balanced Nutrition: Prioritise nourishing yourself with a balanced, varied diet. Include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats in your meals. Remember, the quality of nutrition is essential for both you and your little one. Meal prep has become my constant friend.
c. Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key during breastfeeding. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support milk production, stay refreshed, and maintain overall health.
d. Gentle Exercise: Engage in gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or postnatal workouts to support your physical and mental well-being. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on when it's appropriate to incorporate exercise into your routine.
I for one have come to love Pilates and thrive on early morning Mama-Lila walks. Further, I have come to love getting a massage once per month, it is that one hour just for me: Bodywork, particularly massage, holds immense importance in the postpartum period, offering a multitude of physical and emotional benefits for new mothers. Pregnancy and childbirth exert considerable strain on a woman's body, leading to muscle tension, soreness, and potential misalignments. Postpartum massage helps alleviate these discomforts by promoting relaxation, improving circulation, and releasing built-up tension in muscles. Additionally, massage can aid in reducing postpartum swelling and inflammation, aiding the body's natural healing processes. Beyond the physical benefits, postpartum bodywork offers a crucial opportunity for emotional well-being. It provides a safe and nurturing space for new mothers to reconnect with their bodies, easing the transition into their changed physical state and fostering a sense of self-care. The nurturing touch of massage can also help alleviate stress, anxiety, and symptoms of postpartum depression, promoting a positive mindset during this transformative phase of life. Overall, integrating bodywork, especially massage, into the postpartum recovery journey can play a vital role in enhancing both the physical and emotional aspects of a new mother's well-being.
e. Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, or lactation consultants who can offer guidance, encouragement, and reassurance as you navigate the breastfeeding journey. Their expertise and understanding can be invaluable.
4. Self-Care and Self-Love:
Remember to prioritise self-care and self-love during this transformative time. Celebrate your body's incredible abilities and the profound bond you're building with your baby through breastfeeding. Practice self-compassion, body positivity, and take moments to relax, recharge, and appreciate the beauty of your journey.
**10 Tips for Partners to Support Breastfeeding Women**
1. **Educate Yourself:** Understanding the basics of breastfeeding can make a world of difference in providing support.
2. **Offer Encouragement:** Kind words and reassurance can boost her confidence during tough times.
3. **Be Hands-On:** Assist with nappy changes, burping, and settling the baby to give her some much-needed rest.
4. **Create a Comfortable Space:** Set up a cosy breastfeeding station with essentials within reach.
5. **Share Household Responsibilities:** Dividing chores lightens her load and allows her to focus on breastfeeding.
6. **Provide Emotional Support:** Listen without judgment, and offer a shoulder to lean on during emotional moments.
7. **Research Lactation Consultants:** Help her find professional support if breastfeeding challenges arise.
8. **Meal Prep:** Nutritious meals and snacks can be a game-changer for her energy levels and milk supply.
9. **Encourage Self-Care:** Remind her to take breaks and engage in activities she enjoys.
10. **Advocate for Her Needs:** Be her voice when it comes to family gatherings or outings, ensuring she's comfortable and accommodated.
**Tips to Maintain Milk Supply**
1. **Nurse on Demand:** Responding promptly to baby's cues helps establish and maintain milk supply.
2. **Stay Hydrated:** Drinking enough water supports milk production.
3. **Healthy Diet:** Prioritise balanced meals rich in nutrients and breastfeeding-friendly foods.
4. **Frequent Breast Emptying:** Ensure both breasts are well-emptied during each feeding session.
5. **Skin-to-Skin Contact:** Skin-to-skin bonding enhances milk production and strengthens the mother-baby connection.
6. **Avoid Stress:** Stress can hinder milk supply, so practice relaxation techniques.
7. **Pump Regularly:** If you're also using a breast pump, regular pumping sessions can help stimulate milk production.
8. **Get Enough Sleep:** Rest is essential for overall well-being and milk production. Well, as much as you can...I for one used pre recorded 30minute Yoga Nidra sessions.
9. **Limit Pacifier Use:** Excessive pacifier use can reduce the baby's demand for breast milk.
10. **Breastfeed at Night:** Nighttime nursing stimulates milk production and ensures baby's nutritional needs are met.
As we celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Week, let's embark on a mission to break the silence surrounding breastfeeding and motherhood. It's time to embrace the journey with all its facets—the triumphs, the struggles, and everything in between.
By fostering a community that thrives on understanding, support, and compassion, we can create a world where every mother feels empowered, respected, and heard. So, let's raise our voices, share our stories, and make breastfeeding a subject that's not just celebrated but truly understood in all its complexities.
xoxo
LS
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