Among the many choices we make as new parents, choosing to breastfeed or pump breast milk for our baby is one of the biggies. It’s fraught with concerns about our ability to provide for our baby’s nutritional needs, about the commitment it takes to do so, about how we will manage it after returning to work, and more.
For parents who do choose to breastfeed, some of these concerns will prove to be real obstacles that may make them want to give up. But here’s some advice from a mom who has been there: Don’t quit on a bad day.
This advice applies to the most important decisions in our lives. It’s never a good idea to decide about something big when you’re at a low.
For a breastfeeding parent on the verge of claiming defeat, do these three things first.
Give it at least 24 hours. A new day can make a huge difference in our outlook.
Call in the reinforcements. If you’re having issues with milk supply or the mechanics of breastfeeding or pumping, get help. Call an IBCLC (international board-certified lactation consultant). If you need a decent night’s sleep, ask your partner to help you schedule some ways to make that happen. Hiring a night doula might be part of your strategy. My team of doulas and I take pride in helping families figure this piece out.
Take time to consider what will replace breastfeeding and/or pumped milk. The age of your little one will be a factor in some of these decisions. Will you wean to bottle-feeding formula? Will you be weaning to more solid foods or another milk? You might want to discuss this with your pediatrician before making the final decision. And remember, rule number one is to feed the baby.
Once you’re in a better, more grounded space, if you find you still want to quit, a postpartum doula or lactation consultant may be able to help you navigate the process with compassion and sensitivity.
