By: Emily Carter
Updated: Dec. 2, 2020
Originally Published: Jan. 12, 2013
As my baby reaches the milestone of 12 months, I’ve noticed a significant shift in his eating habits; he’s consuming more food—almost as if he were a starving teenager! Concurrently, my nursing sessions are becoming less frequent. This marks a bittersweet transition as our breastfeeding journey approaches its conclusion. While I have cherished the intimacy of breastfeeding, I also find myself looking forward to regaining certain freedoms I’ve set aside. To embrace this new phase, I’ve decided to celebrate my child’s weaning by indulging in some long-missed activities.
1. Sleep In
One of the first joys I anticipate is the ability to sleep beyond the early hour of 6 a.m. Even if my baby grants me extra hours of sleep, my body, particularly my breasts, has its own agenda. At 6 a.m., I’m practically jolted awake by the pressure signaling it’s time to either nurse or pump. Soon, I’ll relish the luxury of uninterrupted sleep.
2. Reignite My Romantic Life
In my previous post about the benefits of breastfeeding, I mentioned the initial excitement of unprotected intimacy during the first six months with my baby (despite some skepticism from readers). However, the reality of post-baby life has left me exhausted and lacking in libido. The transition to weaning promises to revive my romantic life, reminiscent of carefree days before motherhood.
3. Store My Pump Away
My relationship with my breast pump can be described as complicated, with a lean towards dislike. I look forward to stowing it away in the farthest corner of the attic, only to be rediscovered if I choose to expand my family or, more likely, to part with it entirely.
4. Enjoy Caffeine and Cocktails
The days of meticulously planning my caffeine and cocktail intake around nursing sessions will soon be over. I’m excited to relish coffee and margaritas at any time of day, guilt-free!
5. Revamp My Wardrobe
With the end of breastfeeding comes the opportunity to shop for new bras. While breastfeeding may have its perks, post-milk breasts deserve some attention. I plan to treat myself to a selection of flattering, stylish bras that boost my confidence.
6. Uninterrupted Errands
Gone will be the days of nursing or pumping in parking lots, trying to juggle errands around feeding times. I look forward to completing hours of shopping and errands without the worry of fitting them into my baby’s schedule.
7. Take Medications Freely
While nursing, I’ve avoided medication unless absolutely necessary. I can’t wait to indulge in even the mildest pain relief or discomfort without hesitation. Modern medicine will become my new ally in managing everyday aches.
8. Reflect on Breastfeeding
Despite the exhaustion and challenges that come with breastfeeding, I acknowledge the deep bond it has fostered with my child. I will surely miss those moments, even as I embrace the new possibilities ahead.
In summary, weaning represents both an end and a beginning. It opens up avenues for personal freedom and revitalization, while also evoking nostalgia for the special connection shared during breastfeeding. For those interested in exploring various methods of conception and parenting, resources such as Hopkins Medicine provide excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination. For more insights into the process, consider checking out this article on at-home insemination kits and this one for further guidance.
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