1 year breastfeeding!
Katie Donald
I am at almost 1 year of breastfeeding (Aug 14th will be a year). In the beginning I didn't think I was going to be able to breastfeed as my baby was in the NICU for a week. While in the NICU he go used to being bottle fed while I pumped so when trying to get him on the breast, he wasn't having it. The breastfeeding counselor at the NICU helped me get a shield to try and we were successful with it! But then he also started refusing after a bit. I went to a breastfeeding counselor close to home and turns out I was using the wrong size nipple shield. She gave me the correct size so my baby could latch better and boom successful again. After about another month my nipples were starting to hurt as I didn't realize that they were being pulled down into the shield and rubbing at the end. I was devastated cuz I thought I had to give up. But then the counselor said try pulling off the shield mid feeding, let baby attach using the shield and then after a few minutes unlatch take the shield off and try bare nipple. I did this and was successful again. She then told me try latching baby first without the shield and so I did and was successful a few times others he wasn't and would have to put the shield on. After about 2 weeks of doing this then I was able to get rid of the shield altogether! As a mom it was the best feeling in the world. Then the teeth came in about 4 months later. Oh my goodness i was afraid of getting bit! Luckily he has only bitten me a few times accidentally. Yes it does hurt but only for a minute. Ever since getting rid of shield, we've been successful with breastfeeding! My first goal was 6 months but then since all the struggles and tears I had and loving the bond I decided 1 year. We are slowly weaning now. Thanks to all the counselors that had helped me through everything. Without their support I don't think k I would have made it! If you're struggling don't give up and don't be afraid to ask questions! You got this mommas! You're not alone! Breastfeeding counselors are absolutely amazing!
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Comments
Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring breastfeeding success story! You overcame so much along your journey! I love your determination to breastfeed and willingness to ask for help! It's been an honor supporting you along the way and your baby is so lucky to have you as his mother. <3
You go Momma!!! You definitely faced some challenges there in the beginning and it's amazing what you were able to accomplish with some guidance and perseverance. <3 You are doing such a wonderful job and your story is quite the inspiration to others who could be going through similar things. Thank you so much for sharing!!
Wow! Way to stick with it, Katie. Thanks for encouraging other moms with your story. It takes a village.💕
Wow, Katie! You are one MOTIVATED mama! What a wonderful success story! Thank you so much for sharing to help support other breastfeeding moms.
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