I am currently breastfeeding Rachel Anna, my almost 6 month old daughter. I also nursed her older sister, Caroline Emma, who is now four years old. I have worked in corporate America, full-time, through both breastfeeding experiences with my daughters.
Rachel latched on with little problem....she was a breastfeeding professional at the young age of a few moments old. She nursed as often as every two hours in the beginning. My older daughter would watch in awe (and a bit of jealousy) and I reminded her that she too drank "mommie's milk".
Rachel had infant jaudice bad enough to warrent the billi lights. She spent 48 hours under the billi lights - with her only reprieve and my only chance to hold her was when she was breastfeeding!
Our next hurdle was a case of mastitis. Luckily, it was only in one breast. My doctor told me to take antibiotics and nurse through it. The breathing excercises that I learned in childbirth class came in handy when the baby latched on.....but we got through it.
Breastfeeding a second child is wonderful. It is the only time during our busy days that I can close out everyone else and concentrate on Rachel. I would not trade it for anything in the world!
I feel very lucky to be surrounded with people who are supportive of breastfeeding. My husband is VERY supportive of our decision to breastfeed our children. He knows that there is no other substance (formula) that provides what I can provide to our children.
Caroline was breastfed until the age of 13 months. She went from mommie's milk to cow's milk, never had an ounce of formula and then weaned herself. I plan on nursing Rachel until she is ready to quit as well.
Keep up the good work.....and keep breastfeeding!!!
Beth Brown
