Babymama Donnarence of My Lucid Intervals
My baby is named Jonah Malachi. A lot of people often mistook him for a girl because of his name, Jonah. (Jonah is one of my favorite bible story/book in the Bible.) He is a happy and easy baby. He loves people talking to him and he smiles a lot too. He has two dimples na minana sa akin! Yehey!
I decided to breastfeed my baby because of the health benefits it brings like production of antibodies tailor fit for my baby’s needs and less risk of SIDS. Also, my Doctor said that it will help in my recovery/healing after delivery. A lot of people told me as well that breastfeeding could help me lose my pregnancy weight. True enough, I was at my heaviest during my pregnancy at 160 lbs and now after almost 3 months I am 130 lbs lighter. Lastly, I considered breastfeeding because it a way to bond with my baby.
After giving birth, the biggest challenges that I encountered were during the first three weeks. During such time I developed postpartum depression, I felt weaker than usual because I underwent emergency CS (plus I worried almost everyday that my stitch would break open or would develop infection), and I was so stressed out during breastfeeding sessions because my nipples were very sore and at times even bleeding due to improper latching. I tried my best to be positive and embraced my new role as a mother.
With God’s grace, I slowly overcame my fears. My husband took very good care of me and supported me during this difficult time. He was my cheerleader whenever I feel like giving up on breastfeeding our baby due to my low pain tolerance. My mother also assisted me in taking care of my baby and gave me helpful tips for faster recovery because she underwent CS operations too. As for improper latching, I researched and watched YouTube videos. Thereafter, I trained my baby to latch properly and at the same time, I developed a bed time routine to adjust my baby’s sleeping patterns.
Before going back to work, I made sure that I am equipped with the things that will help me build my milk stash aside from mentally and emotionally preparing myself. I got myself a breast pump Spectra 9 Plus which I can bring with ease anywhere, a manual pump (Haakaa) that collects the letdown for night time feeding, a sturdy insulated bag to keep my milk fresh the whole day, milk storage bags, and a nursing cover. I also worked out a routine where I pump every three-four hours and collect letdowns during feedings as much as possible.
I have countless memorable experiences after giving birth but my favorite was when my baby looked at me straight in the eyes and gave me the sweetest smile during one of our early morning/dawn feedings. It was like he is so in love with his Momma that my heart literally melted!
Read more about Donnarence on her blog: www.mylucidintervals.com
