Is Exclusively Pumping Affecting Your Mental Health?

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. 

0

Starting Solids

The Food Journey Begins

I eat my cereal without milk every morning. It's always one of my go-to fun facts for those "One interesting thing about me is.." icebreaker games bosses make you do in meetings. When I tell people this, they're either 100% in agreement or they're borderline offended.

There's only one way to eat cereal and it's WITH milk! 

For me, it's all about that CRUNCH you just don't get with soggy Cheerios.  Jam it packed with fruit or chocolate chips, but leave that milk in the fridge. Not to mention, dry cereal is there for you to enjoy after sitting on the kitchen table for hours while you feed, change, and enjoy your baby. Basically, it's a mommy friendly food choice.

All this to say it makes me wonder what kind of eater my baby will be. Will she explore new flavors or stick only to the classics? Will she prefer a crunch or a squish? Will she invent her own way of eating things?

Here we are at the start of month four, and my pediatrician has officially recommended introducing solids.

I am a mix of emotions. 

0

Six Ways Pumping Time Can Actually Improve Your Mental Health

Moms have so little time to themselves as it is. I'm grateful for even the smallest moments of "me time." They're few and far between these days!

That's why I try to maximize the time I spend hooked up to a breast pump as much as I possibly can. Sure, it's only 15 to 20 minutes here and there, but that time really adds up quickly. Not to mention it's a great opportunity for some mindfulness...something all moms absolutely need.

Sure, you could use the time to shop online or mindlessly scroll through your social media feed. We can do better than that though, ladies!

Here are a few ways to take care of YOU during those pumping minutes:

{This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on something & purchase it, at no extra cost to you, I will earn a commission.}

First off, this is all made MUCH simpler with a hands-free pumping bra. I have two and it's made a world of difference in allowing me to do so much more. They're pretty inexpensive and SO worth having.

                                   

Bullet Journaling

This is my favorite way to unwind while being productive all at the same time!

If you haven't heard of bullet journaling, it's essentially a creative planner and scrapbook combined (at least that's how I use mine). Doodle, plan, jot down thoughts...it's whatever you need it to be!

Remember that bullet journals do not have to be perfect! It's all about being free to make what you need however you want and without judgment. If you mess up, it's OK! This is about mindfulness and relaxation. If that causes you more frustration, maybe jump ahead to the next suggestion. 😏

I've used it to track my own to-dos and goals, but it's helped me with so many mom and baby things too. It's my one-stop-shop for baby's doctor appointments, schedules, jots about her habits. You name it, I've tracked it! This is a huge help when we go to her pediatrician. Everything I need is in one place. I just keep it in the diaper bag and we're all set.

I personally love the Scribbles That Matter notebooks. Their thick pages don't allow your pens' ink to bleed through, which just makes my heart happy. There are so many other journals available though so find the one that works best for you.

0