Is it really breastfeeding if I have to exclusively pump?
Am I doing this right?
Is it worth my sanity?
I asked myself these questions so many times. To say they messed with my mind for months is an understatement.
As moms, we want to be sure we're giving our LOs everything they need to be happy and healthy. For three months, my daughter tried to drink from my breast. Clog after clog, from milk blubs to torn nipples, I
dreaded feedings. I wanted to love it. It seemed so easy for most. Why did breastfeeding cause so much pain?
It turned out that my daughter is tongue-tied, which made it very difficult for her to latch. I was told that pumping exclusively would be best for our situation, as I still wanted her to be able to drink breastmilk for as long as possible in her first year.
Looking back, I'm glad I made the decision to pump exclusively, but it wasn't an easy choice to stick with.
I doubted my ability to keep up with it day in and day out.
No matter your situation, exclusively breastfeeding takes a toll and can put a strain on your own mental health. It certainly did for me.
I hope that sharing my experiences with you will help you overcome the emotional rollercoaster that can come with pumping exclusively.
Things Exclusively Pumping Moms Think That Mess with Their Already Tired Mommy Brains:
Please see a medical professional for any and all questions regarding breastfeeding/pumping,
as this post is based solely on my own personal experiences.