Let me start off by saying, I enjoyed breastfeeding but it was not easy!  At first, the idea really kind of freaked me out.  I kept hearing how great it is for your baby and really wanted to do what was best.  I even felt a little pressured by my husband to breastfeed.

I knew that women had been doing it since the beginning of time, but that did not mean that I had to. I read the books, but they only contributed to my confusion. I took a class that was sponsored by my doctor’s office, but that was just a waste of time. I did not get any of my questions answered and left with new ones.

I talked with my mom and she made me feel better by telling me that while breastfeeding is good, it is not my only choice. Also, the lactation nurse in the hospital helped me a lot. She also told me that breastfeeding is not the only choice that I had.

I had a dramatic delivery and could not start breastfeeding right away. So, for the first few feedings, my daughter got formula. When I did see the lactation nurse, we started with pumping to get the flow going. I also told her that I was not really comfortable with the idea of breastfeeding. She told me that I could pump and give the milk in bottles. She was really supportive of what I wanted; she did not push any option over another.

Ultimately, I decided to try breastfeeding. My daughter was breastfed. If I needed a break or if my husband wanted some daddy-daughter time, we supplemented with formula. My daughter would not take breast milk from a bottle. (She came into the world with her own opinions.)

I breastfed for six months, then my daughter was on formula. She was a happy, healthy baby and she is a thriving two-year-old now. I enjoyed breastfeeding, but it is not the only choice moms have. Do your research, ask questions, and decide what is best for you, your baby, and your family.