Raise your hand if you spend more time with your breast pump than your husband? Oh hi, yes right here, that’s me.
Let’s be raw, breastfeeding is hard, it’s a lot of work. Throw pumping into the mix and it can feel like a full-time job. Going back to work is one thing, trying to balance everything that comes with breastfeeding on top of working is another. It takes a lot of patience, balance, and learning to multitask; note- you become a badass multitasker (like pumping while driving to work, #efficient). Except when your supply suddenly stops, and you’re left watching your freezer stash quickly dwindle down (and out goes that patience too).
The cause of my problem- the dreaded stomach bug. Who invited you? Well it hit me, hard. I was so weak I couldn’t keep up with feeding or pumping. My milk stopped, I panicked.
When life gives you lemons pray they are lulu. Or just add vodka. Your choice.
Oatmeal, check. Water, check. Almonds, check. Google, check. Cry, check. Anxiety, check. Call doctor, check. Lactation tea, check. Power pump sessions, check. You get the picture. After days and days of pumping off and on for hours or walking around with my baby attached to me, all I could get was three ounces total. Yes, three. Are you crying because I am.
Thankfully things are getting better (thank you boob gods). And no it’s not just from eating oatmeal nonstop, but because I told myself to stop over thinking, to stop stressing. It’s amazing what our minds and stress are capable of controlling. If you find yourself in a similar situation, or any situation that is where you feel like you’ve lost all control, don’t panic, don’t stress around the clock like I did. Whether that liquid gold comes back in or not, you are doing a great job. You are a GREAT mom and you are amazing. It doesn’t matter how your baby is fed, formula or breastmilk, just feed that baby and everything will be okay. Your baby loves you no matter what, even during the times where you lose control, like me and this moment. The rollercoaster of motherhood is real, but tighten that strap, you’re doing great.
My favorite lactation recipe is here. Easy, simple, and yummy. I made these when I was trying anything and everything to get my milk to come back in. Enjoy!
- 2 cups oats
- 1/2 cup flaxseed
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup almond butter
- 3 tablespoons brewer’s yeast
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl except for the chocolate chips. Once mixed, add in chocolate and stir. Roll mixture into balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and then transfer into a sealed container. Store in fridge and enjoy!
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article sponsered by Northern Michigan certified lactation consulting and Mother Hubbards Country Cupboard
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