According to NPR, only 13% of mothers successfully breastfeed exclusively for six months—the recommended duration for their baby’s health. I consider myself fortunate; I breastfed my first two children for over a year and a half each, and my daughter is currently four months old, thriving on breast milk. However, my breastfeeding experience has not been without its challenges. From cracked nipples to thrush and milk blebs, I’ve faced numerous hurdles, yet my determination has never wavered. While this journey is tough, it is undeniably rewarding for both me and my baby.
So, please, stop asking me when I plan to introduce a bottle to my breastfed baby. I’m unsure why people feel the need to voice their opinions, but ever since I took her out in public for the first time, I’ve been bombarded with questions like, “Haven’t you started giving her a bottle yet?” Did I mention she’s only four months old?
Did I forget to bring my nipples along? What could a bottle possibly offer her that I can’t provide right here, right now? I don’t give her a bottle when I’m present because it’s simply unnecessary. There are plenty of meaningful ways to bond with a baby that don’t involve feeding them. So please, think of something else to discuss.
On the rare occasions I’ve left her, she has taken a bottle easily. However, introducing a bottle to a breastfed baby involves careful consideration. Nipple confusion is real, and then there’s the learning curve for paced feeding. Finding a bottle that she will accept isn’t as straightforward as you might think! Frankly, I’m more focused on maintaining my mental health than on worrying about how my choice to breastfeed might make you uncomfortable.
Unique Challenges Faced by Black Women
Let’s talk about the unique challenges faced by Black women when it comes to breastfeeding. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black mothers often have a tougher time breastfeeding due to factors like returning to work sooner, receiving less guidance, and lacking professional support. On top of that, there’s the painful legacy of slavery that complicates our experiences with breastfeeding. So, now you’re shaming me for wanting to nourish my own child? Absolutely not!
Moreover, many women of color are the primary earners in their households, which forces them back to work sooner due to inadequate maternity leave in the U.S. This often leaves little time to establish a breastfeeding routine. I returned to work when my second son was just seven weeks old, and although I had the flexibility to pump at work, I often had to do so in my car, as many workplaces lack proper facilities. As a 27-year-old Black mom surrounded by other millennial women of color, I encountered some bizarre comments about breastfeeding—one coworker even said he wasn’t breastfed because it “felt gay.” Such remarks reflect the unfortunate over-sexualization of Black bodies.
All of this points to the fact that as mothers, we face enough challenges already. We constantly question whether our baby is getting enough nutrition and gaining weight appropriately. Our thoughts are consumed with what we eat and how it affects our milk supply. Should we take fenugreek? Is it safe to drink a lot of Body Armor? Am I dealing with mastitis or just a clogged duct?
Breastfeeding is no easy feat, and I certainly don’t need any unsolicited advice, especially when it contradicts my long-term goals.
Further Reading
For further insights into the journey of motherhood, check out this blog post, and for expert advice on fertility, visit Make a Mom. Additionally, Women’s Health offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
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- Breastfeeding challenges
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Summary:
Breastfeeding can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, especially for mothers facing societal pressures and unique obstacles. It is essential to prioritize mental health and personal choices when it comes to nourishing a baby. Understanding the complexities of breastfeeding, including the added difficulties for Black mothers, helps in fostering a supportive environment.
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