My baby, my last baby, is officially no longer a nursling. The last time I breastfed her was the day she turned 17 months, she went over a week without asking to nurse again and when I said yes, she attempted to latch but I guess she forgot how and bit me instead. Of course my reaction was to scream (and hers to laugh) so just like that- I was done breastfeeding.
I’ve had a tumultuous experience with breastfeeding, but I’ve never once regretted the sacrifices it took to have a successful breastfeeding relationship with my two girls. While I tried to balance the commitment I was making to my baby and still having my own identity, when you are nursing you will naturally have some considerations you have to make because you are a breastfeeding. My list is short, but there are a handful of things that I’m looking forward to now that my title has changed from breastfeeding mother to mother.
Knowing that my husband and I are on equal parenting ground.
I am married to a super dad. Seriously-this man is a better father than I am mother and adores his family more than anything (though the Cowboys are a very close second). He has always put in more than his share but I still always knew that nursing was my job and mine alone and sometimes, ok a lot of the times, breastfeeding was the only answer. Now that nursing isn’t an option we have to learn our new coping tactics and it is up to both my husband and I to team up together to navigate our new ways.
Never having to consider if my outfit is breastfeeding friendly.
My winter uniform is leggings and a tunic style top or sweater dress. Most of these items are not very breastfeeding friendly-I would have to lift the entire dress up around my waist in order for my daughter to have access. I feel like I have a totally new wardrobe because I can now grab anything out of my closet and not have to consider an afternoon feeding. Now whether those clothes fit or not, I digress.
My body is now my own.
I am appreciative that going forth, I no longer have to take breastfeeding into consideration when it comes to medicines, my hormones (while I’m not looking forward to having a regular period again-I’m very ready to be completely leveled out) and not have to worry about certain foods that impacted my nursling. While I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve my daughter for over two years between pregnancy and nursing, I’m happy to have my body back for me only.
I can finally get my breast reduction.
For every mom this small gratitude may look different-some moms may not be able to lose weight until they stop nursing, some moms may want to get a lift after their nursling deflated the perky shape of their breasts. For me, I have wanted a breast reduction since I was 13 years old and now that I know I am officially never going to nurse again, I’m ready to take the steps towards completing that goal.
Breastfeeding taught me a lot of things, but most of all, how to be selfless. I’m so thankful for both of my experiences with both my daughters but I am so, so thrilled to be done!
