Breastfeeding and pumping are always portrayed as being so easy and beautiful on TV and in magazines but the truth is, there’s a learning curve. Don’t get me wrong, I truly enjoyed my breastfeeding journey (can’t wait to do it again) and I could give you a huge list of things I really enjoyed about it.
But what good will that do if I don’t get real and also share with you the things that are not so good that you should be aware of? My intention is definitely not to freak you out or anything but I truly believe that being prepared is key to success in everything you do.
These are all things I wish I would’ve known and am so glad I know now. Things you’ll be glad to know just in case you go through something similar or just alike!
8 Things That Shocked Me About Breastfeeding And Pumping As A New Mom
#1 The uterine contractions
So so bad it had to be #1 on the list.
You probably think that contractions end when you birth your baby and your placenta…
That’s not where it all ends. I know this now as a mom of 2, but at the time I gave birth, I had no idea. So you can only imagine the shock I felt when my babies first latched on.
Um wow. Ouch.
I had no idea that skin-to-skin and breastfeeding my baby would trigger such painful uterine contractions. It’s totally normal though and happens as a result of your uterus contracting and shrinking back down to its pre-baby size. But still. Wow.
I powered my way through them without using anything but a heating pad once in a while, but I wouldn’t wish them on my worst enemy. I haven’t used this natural pain-relieving herbal tincture yet since I only found out about it after having baby #2 but I will be using it in the future.
#2 The amount of milk I produced
I know breast size has absolutely nothing to do with the amount of breast milk one can produce but still, I was honestly shocked at just how much breast milk I produced. If you’re experiencing low milk production issues, check out my list of 50 of the best lactation-boosting recipes!
My poor babies would literally gulp during feeds and choke sometimes, and I would spray everything in sight (including their little faces) with my milk. I had no idea what was going on until I found that I had an oversupply of breast milk.
Hopefully, you produce just enough milk for your baby because having too much isn’t as great as it might sound
We managed this by sitting back in a comfy recliner to combat the gravitational pull on my milk and to give my baby more control. I also got a ton of burp cloths to help clean up any mess.
I also found the Haakaa silicone breast pumps to be extremely helpful!
#3 The nipple pain
I’ve seen many women breastfeed, but I didn’t know how painful it would be at first.
When I first started breastfeeding and pumping, and my nipples hadn’t been totally “broken in” yet, it was really painful and they would feel super sore after each session.
I spent my days with this organic nipple butter at my side all day every day.
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Note: Nipple pain during breastfeeding does not always mean that there is a problem. Even with a perfect latch, no anatomical issues such as tongue ties and lip ties, you may experience nipple pain. When and if in doubt, consult with a Certified Lactation Consultant.
#4 The roller-coaster of emotions
Breastfeeding and pumping are what I consider to be a labor of love. It’s not easy sacrificing your body in that way day in and day out.
Sometimes you may not feel like it. You may not feel like having someone touch you, or your nipples may feel so sore that the thought of nursing makes you shudder.
I want you to know that it’s OK to not always love breastfeeding or pumping. Yes, you’re a mom but you’re also human!
Talk to someone you trust. Check with a naturopath to ensure you don’t have any vitamin deficiencies, talk to someone about postpartum depression or anxiety, and find ways to occupy yourself while nursing.
#5 The frequency
File this one under being totally clueless… but I had no idea I’d be breastfeeding my babies 10+ times a day. Until I mastered the side-lying breastfeeding position, I forgot what sleep even meant.
Although on-demand feeding is the best way to feed your baby and to establish your milk supply, it’s can still be exhausting. So when you experience this mama, just know that it’s normal and it’s a phase that does not last forever.
#6 The overall body pain
I tell my readers about the benefits of seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy all the time. But it’s also important that you see one during postpartum to promote internal healing, proper spinal and pelvic alignment, and overall good health.
When you’re in postpartum recovery mode and are spending several hours breastfeeding and pumping every single day, you are bound to experience some aches and pains. When you’re in pain, your body is communicating that it needs rest and healing.
So don’t forget to book those postnatal massage and chiropractic adjustment appointments mama. You need and deserve it!
#7 How long it takes
I didn’t really mind breastfeeding for long periods of time all that much as long as I was comfortable and had the things I needed nearby. But pumping was an entirely different story.
Nothing against my double breast pump but I just found that it was so time-consuming. Hooking it up, pumping, collecting and storing, washing all the parts, and then feeding the baby…It all just took so long.
Kudos to all the moms who pump exclusively! I am inspired by your dedication and know how hard it must be.
#8 The breastfeeding learning curve
Breastfeeding is natural but it doesn’t always come naturally. And then, pumping also has its own unique set of challenges. Please, please be patient with yourself and with your baby. Just because you don’t master things immediately does not mean you are a failure. It takes time to get things right!
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