Happy Thursday!

I wish I were saying it was a beautiful day in Louisiana but it's actually quite gloomy :/ I'm currently sitting outside with my little munchkin, enjoying the not so hot weather. It's crazy how hot September has been this year! On a different note, I wanted to share some ups and downs that I've experienced with breastfeeding to hopefully help some of you mommas out there. 

For starters, I think the most discouraging things anyone can hear are, "You're probably not producing enough. Your baby needs more. You should probably just stick to formula. Why don't you just use breast milk and formula?" Y'all I've heard it all. I feel like I've been through it all. From not producing a ton at first, to going back to work a week later, to having my nipples rubbed raw, to cracked nipples, to not reacting to a pump really well, it's been an endless road. But here I am with an almost 11 month old and I never gave up or gave into formula. I'm not saying this is for everyone and I totally suppose formula fed babies but I am super proud of myself for making it this far. I did not nurse with Ryder, he wouldn't latch, I didn't eat enough, nor could I pump enough so I gave up. I made a deal with myself for Ren, that I would try and get past the 6 month mark and then once I reached that point, I felt like I was doing well and so was he, so why change anything??

Tips for if you're struggling to produce:

- Up your water intake

- Pump when your little one is napping (helps to produce more) 

- Fenugreek Pills (Found mine at whole foods but here's an amazon link )

- Lactation Drinks ( This is the one I used Premama Wellness )

- Make sure you're eating enough!

Tips for cracked or hurting nipples, plus latching issues:

(These were a lifesaver, literally) 

- Nipple Shields 

- Lanolin Cream

I hope these small tips help for those of you struggling! Just remember that know one knows your body like you do. Do not let anyone talk you out of something you're committed to as well. I hate seeing people give up because of other's negativity. Whether breastfeeding is right for you, only you can decide but I truly love it. It has saved us tons in money, it's all natural, Ren has never had stomach issues or health problems. I mean I could go on for days. I feel like working moms have to be even more dedicated to pumping at work and freezing their milk but it's possible. I personally bring ice packs in a bag to work, and pump before and after my weddings. At the beginning, I would pump on my dinner break. You do what you have to for your babies and I think most moms can agree on that. I hope this helps!

Here are some of the things I use for breastfeeding:

- Kiinde Twist Storage Bags

- Medela Storage Bottles

- Medela Pump ( The car adapter is the bomb - I pump in my car A LOT)

(Photo creds to my awesome Hubs)

If you have any questions, feel free to comment or shoot me a message!