I was at the gym today and was asked by a lady in my class, who's a fellow mom, if I was still breastfeeding. I of course said "yes" and she was impressed, and then asked if I gave him formula too. When I said "no" she was rather surprised, especially at the fact that he doesn't use a bottle anymore...Why is that???
I know breastfeeding is hard, but why do people act so shocked or like it's a bad thing if your baby is still breastfed after 6 months? It's like the next question in their mind is, "Are you going to wean them at a year?". As if, I would let my kid be one of those 4 year olds who can come lift mom's shirt and ask for milk.
It makes me wonder if most moms don't set out to be successful at breastfeeding in the first place? Like they all expect to fail. That is so sad to me. I set out with the intention of nursing Kyle till a year. I almost gave up many times and had to supplement for a short time around 5 months but I pressed on and am so proud of all I have accomplished.
I really wish more moms would be optimistic about breastfeeding and start with the mindset that they will succeed. Yes things happen outside of their control that prevent them from continuing, but many moms just give up. I try to encourage all my friends who are breastfeeding to continue on even when it get's tough. I've thought about studying to become a lactation consultant...do you think I would make a good one?
Park City Utah
4 years ago
