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| Kidspiredlife |
When you become a new mom, it's like your entire world shifts. You’re full of joy, but also nervous, tired, and unsure of what’s "normal." One of the most natural things in the world — breastfeeding — can suddenly feel like something you need a university degree to figure out. I remember holding my baby and wondering if I was doing it right, if she was getting enough milk, if the pain was supposed to be that sharp, or if it was just part of the process.
The truth is, breastfeeding is not always as straightforward as people make it sound. You and your baby are learning each other. Some babies latch immediately like they’ve done it in a past life, others struggle and need a little patience and help. What helped me was realizing that it’s okay to be unsure in the beginning. You’re not failing. You’re just learning.
Another thing I had to let go of was the idea that I had to feed by the clock. At first, I was trying to follow all these “breastfeeding schedules” I saw online — 2 hours here, 3 hours there — but my baby didn’t care about the time. She wanted to feed when she was hungry, and sometimes that was 30 minutes after the last session. Once I started watching her cues instead of the time, everything felt more natural. I was less stressed, and she was more settled.
Comfort is also underrated. Breastfeeding takes time, especially in those first few weeks. Sitting in an awkward position or trying to hold your baby without proper support will leave your body aching. I found my sweet spot using a thick towel as back support and sometimes my husband's chest when I needed extra rest. It’s not about looking cute, it’s about surviving and keeping your body pain-free.
And let’s not even talk about water. Breastfeeding can leave you thirsty like you ran a marathon. I made sure a bottle of water was always beside me. Drinking enough fluids truly made a difference in how I felt and how my milk flowed. I also discovered that traditional drinks like warm pap or millet helped me feel stronger and even increased my supply. Simple, natural, and effective.
One thing I didn’t know was that you don’t need to over-clean your nipples. Just water and a soft cloth is enough. Harsh soaps or creams can actually cause dryness and irritate your baby’s mouth. Keeping things natural worked best for me. And for the sore nipples? I was shocked to learn that a little breast milk rubbed on the area after feeding could heal faster than any cream. It dried quickly, soothed the pain, and I felt better within days.
Breastfeeding isn’t always rosy, but it’s a journey worth taking. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Don’t compare yourself to another mom or what social media shows you. Every baby is different. Every mother is different. Some exclusively breastfeed, some combine with formula, and some stop early — and that’s okay. Do what works for you and your baby.
If you’re a Nigerian mom like me, navigating this journey without much support, remember you’re not alone. Visit Kidspired Life for more real tips and shared experiences. You’re doing your best — and that’s more than enough.
