After what can often be an uncomfortable third trimester (or maybe even entire pregnancy) and then the hard work of labor and delivery, there's certainly not a single mom on the planet who wants another round of intense pain or discomfort right after her baby is born. However, after a second or subsequent labor and delivery, many moms deal with strong afterpains. These afterpains are most coming during breastfeeding, too. What is the best way to cope with breastfeeding and afterpains? What Are Afterpains? Before you can learn to cope with after pains, it is helpful to know a little bit about them. Afterpains are caused by the uterus … [Read more...]

Breastfeeding advice. It comes in all shapes and sizes. Some is very helpful. Some constructive. Some advice-givers might mean well but may not be helpful. Some advice is downright harmful. When I first started breastfeeding over six years ago, I received all sorts of advice. Most was helpful or at least well meaning. I was a new mom and really had no idea if the advice was good or bad until I had a few miles under my belt. Not-So-Great Breastfeeding Advice One of the worst sentiments I was told repeatedly is that breastfeeding is a magical experience. That it is just amazing to stare into the eyes of your little babe while he gets all … [Read more...]

Sleep. Babies and sleep. Nursing and sleep. We spend so many minutes of so many hours of so many days worrying about sleep. How much we're getting and how much we're not getting. We listen to advice and we read books and we worry, worry, worry. Now, three babies in, I don't worry anymore - and I let my baby nurse to sleep. Is It Ok to Let Baby Nurse to Sleep? I know this is a very polarizing subject. Many moms choose not to allow this habit to begin. Many use it as a powerful tool. Many have babies that can't or won't fall asleep at the breast! But for me, letting my baby nurse to sleep has been a gift. When Ronan, my oldest, was a … [Read more...]

Let's face it. Sometimes we can get a little caught up with breastfeeding and forget about our hubby from time to time, right? These poor guys end up being our "gophers" - going for this snack, that diaper change, this burp cloth, etc. And when those little ones eat 'round the clock, it can be challenging to actually make time for a little romance (let alone a simple conversation). Coming up with ways to romance your husband might not be top of your priority list - like fixing a poor latch or just getting dinner on the table is. But with just a little extra effort, we can bless these men who are so supportive, helpful, and encouraging. … [Read more...]

Breastfeeding may be natural, but it sure ain't easy sometimes. I wish someone had taken the time to give me breastfeeding advice when I was a first-time, struggling mom.  And I sure was struggling. In more ways than one. Having a child changes absolutely everything about life. It is a world-rocking experience. The adjustments can be overwhelming, especially when things don't quite go according to plan. As moms, we can be very critical of ourselves. We compare our ability to mother to others. The truth is, no two breastfeeding journeys will be alike. At times we will flourish. At times we will struggle. It's our struggles that make … [Read more...]