10 Things I Wish I Knew About Breastfeeding

Guest Post written by Brand Ambassador: Elissa Armistead

Navigating all things baby can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to breastfeeding and the changes your body is experiencing. Elissa is one of our 2022 Brand Ambassadors and she shared some helpful ideas she wished she had known before starting her breastfeeding journey!

Cluster feeding can cause doubt - Your baby will likely feed for hours, especially at the start!
It’s not always easy - Breastfeeding is often described as the ‘most natural thing in the world’, but it’s not always that way. Improper latches causing pain, tongue ties, and having to take care of another child are just a few bumps in the road you may have.
Reach out for help - If you are struggling with a latch or have any concerns, reach out to your local breastfeeding support service. They can be really helpful!
Don’t feel like you have to hide away - Whether you're at a family gathering or in a cafe, don’t ever feel you have to leave the room to feed your child. Your baby comes first ~ let others leave if they feel uncomfortable.
It can be a love/hate relationship - The bonding time and ease of leaving your house without having to worry about bottles is great, but some days you’ll want your body back and that’s ok.
Don’t bother with overpriced nursing clothing - A basic scoop neck top works just fine.
Don’t feel guilty if you want to combine formula and breastfeeding (or just use formula feed) - We all need a break sometimes and things don’t always work out they way we hope. It's okay if you have to rely on formula!
Invest in some reusable breast pads - Let’s face it, you’ve got a heck of a lot of washing to do anyway 😅
Join support groups - Not everyone has the luxury of attending a group face to face, but there are plenty of online groups that are full of women with inspiring stories and words of advice.
Be present - You’re 6 months in and probably a "pro" at multitasking. Baby in one arm, phone in the other hand. Put the phone down or stop the other task and just enjoy the moment while you can. One day your baby have their last feed and you probably won’t even know it.