Paisley seems to be weaning herself from the breast. I had it in my mind that we might be getting to the time where I was ready to be done, but she may be deciding for me. She's loving solid foods of ALL types, and eats really well. She'll eat mexican food, pasta, hamburgers, veggies, fruits, yogurt, pancakes, etc. And she isn't a fan of plain milk, but loves coconut milk, almond milk, and chocolate milk. And since the little lovebug is on the petite end, her pediatrician encourages us to give her those fatty food for the calories. (Yes, our pediatrician also lets her have cow's milk after 6 months of age. Everyone has a different opinion on this, but a lot say 9 months now.)
This makes me both happy and sad. It will be nice to finally have my body back after SO many years of letting someone else control it. First it was my RE, with the infertility treatments, ovarian drilling, miscarriage, D&C, charts, and medications. Then it was my sweet fetus for 9 months. Now it's been my baby for the past 9 months. I think it's time that I re-take control!
My breasts are definitely aching and I am SO tempted to pump to relieve it. And I'm still nursing her when she wants, but it's only 2-3 times a day now and only for a minute. She isn't putting much effort in anymore, so she doesn't empty them. I thought just ripping off the band-aid would be the best idea, until I realized that this theoretical band-aid is centered across my nipples. And I have lumps all over my poor boobs that make even my armpits sore.
Breastfeeding has been very good for us. It's worked out well for us both and has been much easier than I'd expected based on what I'd heard from others. But maybe it's time to let go...
This makes me both happy and sad. It will be nice to finally have my body back after SO many years of letting someone else control it. First it was my RE, with the infertility treatments, ovarian drilling, miscarriage, D&C, charts, and medications. Then it was my sweet fetus for 9 months. Now it's been my baby for the past 9 months. I think it's time that I re-take control!
My breasts are definitely aching and I am SO tempted to pump to relieve it. And I'm still nursing her when she wants, but it's only 2-3 times a day now and only for a minute. She isn't putting much effort in anymore, so she doesn't empty them. I thought just ripping off the band-aid would be the best idea, until I realized that this theoretical band-aid is centered across my nipples. And I have lumps all over my poor boobs that make even my armpits sore.
Breastfeeding has been very good for us. It's worked out well for us both and has been much easier than I'd expected based on what I'd heard from others. But maybe it's time to let go...
Sorry to hear she is weaning herself. It's bitter sweet but you are right...you will finally have your body back!
ReplyDeletegood for you for nursing her for so long!!
ReplyDeletemy baby is not quite 4 months old, and my goal is 9 months. I'm hoping to have enough milk in the freezer to get her through the rest of the first year.
question - your pedi lets her have cow's milk before 1 year old?
I am also hoping to nurse until 9 months (my baby is only 3 months). I pump more than I nurse and I don't enjoy it at all, but I know it's best for baby.
ReplyDeletePaisley is getting big! It's great that she's not a picky eater (yet)!
I have NO idea how weaning is supposed to go, but sounds like you are getting cues that it is time! I will be interested to see how it goes for you so I can take notes for when the time comes for us. I do know it must be bittersweet - I would also love my body back, but I so love that nursing time with my sweet girl:). They grow so darn fast, don't they?!
ReplyDeleteI can't think of anything more perfect than a baby who's weaning herself just as you were ready to wean her. I hope the process isn't too painful. I'm thinking back to those first few postpartum days of engorgement and cringing. Hope it's better than that!
ReplyDeleteI feel like I've read so may booby posts this past week - or maybe it is just that I'm paying extra attention since my boobies are so terrible sore and painful at the moment. I've always assumed that we would breastfeed, but I really can't imagine the thought if I don't find some relief from this pain before our baby is born.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like breast-feeding has been a really good fit for your family. I've loved watching my best friend breastfeed her daughter who is now 18 months old and slowly (very slowly) weaning herself. She'll go for 24 hour stretches without any milk, then have a rough day/night and need the comfort. Good Luck!!!
Ouch - sounds painful! But how nice that Paisley seems to have made the decision for you. My two kids both decided when they were done and it was so nice to just follow their lead instead of having a battle of wills like some moms have to endure.
ReplyDelete