FROM THE FOUNDER | JUST DO YOU: NAVIGATING BREASTFEEDING IN A WORLD FULL OF OPINIONS
As we celebrate National Breastfeeding Week, I want to share my personal breastfeeding journey and highlight the often-overlooked societal pressures that many parents face. My experiences with breastfeeding my two children were strikingly different, shedding light on how varied and unique each parenthood journey can be.
With my first child, I chose to mix feed from early on. This decision allowed my husband and family members to help with feeding, giving me the freedom I needed when required. Like many new mothers, I faced challenges initially: Was he getting enough milk? Was he latching properly? Introducing a bottle alongside breastfeeding provided the confidence and peace of mind that he was well-fed and happy. To my relief, this mix-feeding approach worked seamlessly.
When my second child arrived, I naively assumed that my breastfeeding journey would be similar. However, this time, he struggled with latching due to a tongue tie. We opted for a surgical procedure to correct it, but post-surgery, he rejected the bottle entirely, and breastfeeding was the only thing that seemed to soothe him. Given the convenience it provided, I was content to exclusively breastfeed. The thought of the time invested in pumping or preparing and packing bottles seemed more daunting with a toddler running around. However, it also brought its unique set of challenges. Feeding on demand was time-consuming, but I adapted to it, embracing the flexibility it offered when leaving the house.
At around 12 months postpartum, a new challenge arose: weaning. Introducing a bottle or sippy cup was met with strong resistance. Weaning a child who isn’t ready or willing was an unexpected struggle, exacerbated by societal comments and unsolicited advice. This went on for a whole year. Instead of the typical pressure to continue breastfeeding, I faced the opposite: constant remarks about when I would stop. Comments like "When are you going to stop?" and "Don't you think he's getting too big?" were not just unhelpful but also deeply frustrating.
It's intriguing how society arbitrarily decides the "right" time frame for breastfeeding. We are all well aware of the societal pressures to start and continue breastfeeding, but the pressure to stop is rarely discussed. The comments can come from both directions, creating an environment where parents feel judged no matter what choice they make. In the end, I did what felt right for me and my child. I continued to breastfeed until almost two years postpartum. My experience taught me that the opinions of others should never dictate how we feed our children. Parenthood is a unique journey for everyone, and the best approach is to do what feels right for you and your family.
Through my experiences, I've ensured that the story behind our brand, portier, symbolizes this diversity in parenthood. Whether you choose to breastfeed exclusively, mix feed, or use formula, the key is to do what feels right for you and your family. The societal pressure to adhere to certain norms can be overwhelming, but it's essential to remember that you're the one best equipped to make decisions for your child.
So, as we mark National Breastfeeding Week, let's remember to support each other in our individual choices and celebrate the diverse experiences of parenthood. Just do you, and let that be enough.
We'd love to hear your stories and experiences—share them with us in the comments below. Together, we can build a community that supports every parent's unique journey.
If you're seeking support on your breastfeeding journey, the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) is an invaluable resource. They offer a wide range of services, including classes, online workshops, and courses designed to provide guidance and support for parents at every stage of breastfeeding. Whether you're navigating challenges, looking to connect with other parents, or simply seeking expert advice, the ABA is there to help. Explore their offerings to find the support that best fits your needs.
