Guest Post by Alli
We are kicking off Breastfeeding Awareness Month! And what better way to do that than to talk about the amazing power of Bonding and Breastfeeding!
This mom’s story gives a heartfelt account of nursing her first baby and how that bond developed despite challenges.
There is no denying the amazing bond that mothers have with their newborn and breastfeeding intensifies that.
Enjoy Alli’s story!
The Power of Bonding and Breastfeeding: Alli’s Story
Giving my all to making breastfeeding work was something I knew was important before my little one even arrived.
With determination, willpower, and persistence, I am so grateful for my 19-month breastfeeding journey with my daughter, N.
Sure, I feel good about the nutritional benefits and antibodies, but the amazing bond and quiet snuggles that breastfeeding brought us are what kept me going. The memories of moments held close.
The moments when I was truly all that my daughter needed, are memories I will cherish forever.
Looking down at her beautiful face, perfect nose, and pouty lips.
The calmness that washed over her body while she was snuggled in my arms nursing.
The way she was easily lulled into a peaceful sleep while breastfeeding.
These are the moments that breastfeeding is really about.
Getting to those moments, and finding our rhythm in breastfeeding wasn’t met without tribulations.
Sore and cracked nipples, repeated clogged ducts and mastitis that was associated with an oversupply had me frustrated and hurting.
But these speed bumps were an essential part of my journey. I sought support from my community, friends, and experts, and persevered.
I can remember so vividly having my baby placed on my chest, and watching her root around for the first time within her first 30 minutes alive. Watching her latch and realizing I was everything she needed was the most empowering moment for me.
At that moment I understood what it meant to be a mother.
During that first feeding, I had no idea what this bond and connection would develop into. I had no idea that I would spend hours upon hours nursing N. I had no idea that nursing would fulfill her nutritional needs, but also be a source of comfort.
During that first feeding, I had no idea what this bond and connection would develop into.
I had no idea the power of breastfeeding and its ability to help her sleep, ease her pain while sick and teething, and help her through mental leaps too.
I never imagined nursing beyond a year. I just didn’t understand what this bond was really like.
In the beginning, it was hard to even imagine nursing for another month. It is hard at first. Baby and you are learning in real time together.
I couldn’t look past the present day. But, without really being able to pinpoint an exact moment, it happened, we found the rhythm.
Breastfeeding became an innate and natural thing.
We had learned together and the bond and closeness were like no other.
So to the new nursing mama:
You CAN do this. It will get easier.
Push through, be stubborn, seek support, and remember that you are exactly what your baby needs. No matter how your breastfeeding journey unfolds, any amount of breastmilk is amazing and you are the most perfect mama for your baby.
About the Author
Hi there, I’m Alli! And I blog over at Mom Smart Not Hard. When I’m not fulfilling my role of mom or writing, you can find me enjoying time outside with my dogs or trying a new recipe in the kitchen.
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