In honor of world breastfeeding week, I felt compelled to jot down my thoughts on this week. I have seen so many post about it, nursing pictures, you name it! It is amazing. But also a little insane.
Before you jump to conclusions about me, let me tell you I breastfed both my children. L1 for 6 months. L2 I had to stop at 6 weeks because of some health issues I had, and needed to start medicine for. So I am pro breastfeeding. It was such a commitment, but such a loving and bonding experience. I would hands down do it again if I had a third.
What I don’t understand is the craziness behind posting pictures of it, saying things like “if you don’t like boobs, unfriend me” or “breastfeeding is the only way a baby should eat”
Ummm…..What!!!!
You are going to lose “friends” over the fact that you want to show your areola all over the internet? And distance fellow mamas because they made a different parenting decision than you did? How about you feed your baby, because that is the point of breastfeeding and stop trying to make a social debate about it.
I don’t understand the “movement.” If people don’t like seeing you breastfeeding, posting it online with #freethenipple is likely not going to change their mind. But also, is breastfeeding really that uncommon? It feels like the norm now. I breastfed my kids in front of anyone, out and about-whatever. Nobody ever complained. But when other people were around that I didn’t know well, I covered up at least a little because I didn’t want anyone else to be uncomfortable. That was just MY personal thoughts. Shoot me for being a little courteous of other people.
I don’t really care what other women do. I honestly don’t. I don’t even mind breastfeeding pictures. It is a beautiful moment between mother and child that is so raw and natural. I just think that when you post ANYTHING about parenting that speaks down upon other parents, you are always wrong. How about kind and encouraging words?
Breastfeed vs formula feed
Co-sleep vs crib sleep
Pacifier vs not using one
Homeschool vs public education
You could write down a million things on this list. None of these choices are wrong. Whatever works and is best for you and your child is always the right choice. Quit judging others, or saying your way is the right way.
I mean, aren’t we all just trying to be the best parents we can be? That’s what matters.
Photo attached: maybe the only picture I have of breastfeeding my youngest. He never wanted to cuddle up, he would get too hot. He ALWAYS crossed his hands over his chest and was tummy up. It was so funny, but still SO sweet. I posted this on social media because I loved it, but also because it was discrete enough that nobody could be mad.
❤ MS Andrea Jackson
P.s. If you like to post pictures of yourself nursing, no matter what is showing, please, let’s still be friends. I would never judge you for your decisions, please don’t judge my opinions. Keep on nursing that babe, mama!
Days with Andrea 