Abigael’s Breastfeeding Story.
My third breastfeeding experience proved to me that even experienced mommies
can have trouble with breastfeeding.
Abigael was born four weeks early. Despite her pre-maturity, she was a good
size (6lbs 14 ounces) and was quite healthy. She and I came home from the
hospital the day after her birth. The only instruction I was given was to
feed her frequently, at least every two hours. Not a problem, I thought.
Actually it was a problem. She was very sleepy and often had difficulty
latching on. When she did latch on, she would often fall asleep as soon as
she started to suck. I found myself having to pump after most feedings to
relieve the engorgement. By the second week, she and I were finally getting
the hang of it.
About a week later, I found myself with mastitis in both breasts. I was so
sick, weak and feverish and also in a lot of pain. My OB told me that I could
continue to breastfeed through this, in fact he hoped that I would as it
would promote faster healing. So I went to bed as he ordered, took my
antibiotics and pain pills, drank lots of fluids and solicited help with the
care of my three children. I knew that frequent nursing would help with the
healing process but I dreaded each time I had to put her to breast those
first couple of days. I could barely lift my then eight pound baby and it
hurt so bad when she would go to breast. By the third day, I was starting to
feel a little better. This time I took it easy, got lots of rest and kept up
with my fluid intake. It was quite humbling for me to admit that I could not
do it all.
When Abigael was 5 weeks old, I had to return to work full time unexpectedly.
My husband was laid off from work so he was Mr. Mom while I was the main
bread winner. I still continued breastfeeding and pumping at work. It was
difficult at first as I was not keeping up with her demand but after a couple
of weeks my supply adjusted.
I continued to breastfeed her until right after her first birthday. She had a
nursing strike and was quite adamant about not taking to the breast. I know
that we could have worked through it but I was not willing to fight with her.
Experience as a mommy has taught me that you pick your battles.
I am grateful that she and I had the time as a breastfeeding couple that we
had.
Today Abigael is three years old. She has some allergies and asthma but it is
manageable.
