There are many things I wish I’d known about having a baby, getting married, college, debt, credit, etc, etc. But right now I can say there are three things about breastfeeding that I wish I could have known before starting.
1 – Just how emotional it can be, the ups and downs. The uncertainty of it all and the self doubt.
2 – The importance of a good nursing bra/cami.
3 – The benefits of cosleeping and how to do it safely.
I’ve really enjoyed our breastfeeding relationship, but it has not been the smoothest road. I really wish there was a way to know ahead if it will work out okay or not. It’s the one thing you really can NOT practice effectively before your first baby is born. Same with pumping. I still wonder sometimes if I’m pumping right (I don’t pump often).
I’ve also talked about my adventures with nursing bras a little bit. I wish I had gotten some before giving birth!
And cosleeping… I never thought we’d cosleep, but it ended up being what works for us. After struggling and fighting against it, I read as much as I could. I discovered great benefits, it helped us survive growth spurts, and could be done safely.
What do you wish you knew before you started breastfeeding?
Darcy is the founder of “Life With Darcy and Brian,” where she combines her love for education, board games, and crafting to create engaging learning experiences for kids. Her creative projects and writing have been featured in outlets like The Toy Insider, CafeMom, Mom.com, Parents.com, Country Living, and The Pioneer Woman.
JulieK
Tuesday 24th of May 2011
I never did get the hang of cosleeping. I guess I need my space! LOL but yes, a good nursing bra is KEY!!!
Brynna
Friday 20th of May 2011
Isn't co-sleeping wonderful?? I cannot imagine actually having to get UP to feed my babies. Even with them waking up all throughout the night, with co-sleeping I have never really felt sleep deprived. However, if I actually had to get out of bed, I don't know how I'd make it through the days!
Darcy
Sunday 22nd of May 2011
Once I stopped trying to fight cosleeping, it's been great! We both sleep well, even if I'm woken up to help her latch or to switch sides.. then I can doze back off! No getting, fumbling in the dark, no stubbing toes or any other unpleasant things. Just comfy, snuggly goodness!
bluebellscreams
Thursday 19th of May 2011
Ha-glad to know I'm not the only one who can't quite figure out pumping! I swear I'm doing something wrong.
I never got nursing bras before hand either-my mom had to run out and buy me some after I got back from the hospital. Fortunately she was able to guess my size exactly. I can't even remember the last time I wore a normal bra.
And yes to co-sleeping! Makes those middle of the night feedings so much simpler (man, I can't believe I actually miss waking up 5 times a night to nurse!)
new follower from the hop btw!
Darcy
Sunday 22nd of May 2011
I bought a double electric pump, but can't quite figure out how I'm supposed to turn it on/off or adjust it while I'm holding everything in place. lol And should I sit up, lean back.. is it getting enough suction? blah!
Jen - Life With Levi
Thursday 19th of May 2011
I was the same way about co-sleeping (well, bedsharing, to be specific). We didn't start doing it until Levi was about 6 months old. Now he spends about half of his time in his crib and half in bed with us. I love Levi snuggles in the morning! I bet Rissa smiles first thing are pretty awesome, too.
Darcy
Sunday 22nd of May 2011
I love Rissa smiles in the morning! :D
Janah
Thursday 19th of May 2011
I wish I had known how difficult and awkward it would be in public! I squeeze into booths and try not to smack her head on the table. I have to selectively find a good seat out of view of most people. If it's too noisy she won't latch and stay latched. My wrist has an issue which makes it hard to hold her head up and my hands are not as stable as the wonderful Boppy pillow we use at home. Most seats and chairs are too narrow for me to breastfeed in comfortably. Forget a wooden rocking chair, give me a Lazy Boy!
Darcy
Sunday 22nd of May 2011
For a couple months I had trouble nursing anywhere without my glider and pillows. I can manage in public but I'm often physically uncomfortable. Plus I can't seem to be discreet since she gets distracted a lot and unlatches to look around.