a little AW for myself here...

Meg1031 · May 2010

I am a regular lurker, infrequent poster. But, tonight, I wanted to just toot my horn for a minute. I am so proud of what my DD and I have accomplished. I have been EBF for nearly 8 months. And this was not without great difficulty.

DD#1 never BF- I EP'd for her for 10 months- used freezer stash until she was 14 months old. She was a 34 weeker.

DD#2-born slightly early, but latched well. Got admitted to hospital after 4 days for severe jaundice. Couldn't nurse her because she was too sleepy- fed her EBM or formula. I was also admitted for postpartum preeclampsia- which was fairly short lived, but afterwards, I began to have horrid panic attacks, feeling as if I were going to die at anytime. I still get a little anxious talking about that time. Got on meds, had a wonderfully supportive hubby, and off to BF land I went.

The first few weeks were painful- no doubt about it. I curled my toes and bit my lip for the first few minutes until she got letdown and all. Oh- and she never liked my left breast. I have always nursed her on the right breast. Up until 1 month ago, I pumped the left breast about 4-5 times a day and stored it. But no more- I have let that well run dry.

I was feeling like I may have had a supply dip recently, but I think we've worked through it.

She still nurses well, even with a cold and teething pain.

I absolutely love it.

I feel so privileged to be able to share this with her. DD#1 got all BM, but for some reason, this is different. Don't get me wrong- I want a break at times, a full nights sleep...but it is all worth it to see her milky smile and get all wiggly and excited when she knows she's going to eat.

I am going to try hard to make it to 1 year, but if I don't- I have a freezer full, and I know that I had done my best, and almost never got the opportunity.

It is bittersweet, however. She is our last child- we have decided that I cannot endure another long bedrest and possible worse Pre-E next time. We may adopt a little boy in the future.

StephE623 · May 2010

That is amazing! I think it's great that you stuck with BF even after all the difficulties you had in the beginning. You determination and dedication are truly admirable.

I hope I have a similar experience when we have #2. I am EPing with DD and I plan to try to get #2 on the breast. I'm hoping to have better luck the second time around.