In this heartfelt narrative, pediatrician Dr. Lila Chen shares her experiences with breastfeeding, including the challenges she faced and the joy it brought her and her son, Max.
When did you decide to breastfeed?
LC: I made the decision around the age of 25 while I was in medical school.
Were you breastfed as a child?
LC: No, I wasn’t.
Was breastfeeding a common topic in your family?
LC: Interestingly, my mom discussed it often. She had four children; my oldest brother was breastfed but needed supplementation because he was such a hungry baby. She didn’t breastfeed my second brother or me but did breastfeed my youngest sister for a year.
Did you face any challenges when starting to breastfeed?
LC: Absolutely! Despite my medical training and knowledge on how to help others, I found the experience incredibly tough. I was shocked by the pain; no one warned me it would hurt so much! I struggled with various issues, including delayed milk production and latching difficulties. It was a real eye-opener regarding how challenging breastfeeding can be for many women.
When did you feel that breastfeeding started to feel natural?
LC: My son suffered from colic and reflux, leading him to want to feed constantly. He also had jaundice. I became fully committed to breastfeeding around his first month. Between three and six months, things really improved; he was no longer colicky, and I was exclusively breastfeeding him without any formula or bottles.
Did you have a breastfeeding duration goal?
LC: Initially, I aimed for a year, but I ended up breastfeeding him until he was almost three!
How did you manage breastfeeding while working?
LC: I returned to work part-time when Max was six months old. Unfortunately, I noticed my milk supply dwindling around that time, which was disheartening. I had to consider supplementing with formula, but I did what I had to do—formula exists for a reason, after all!
Any funny or awkward breastfeeding moments?
LC: Yes! I remember one time when Max was around three to four months old, I was breastfeeding while watching TV. The whole situation was quite casual, but it made me realize how comfortable I had become with it.
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In summary, Dr. Lila Chen’s breastfeeding journey reflects the trials and triumphs many mothers face. With dedication and support, she navigated the challenges of breastfeeding, ultimately finding comfort and joy in the experience.
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