Many moms make the selfless decision to breastfeed their children from birth. While many mothers use formula, there are those who provide food and nourishment from their own bodies .
Moms describe breastfeeding, usually, as a “beautiful” experience that brings them close to their baby.
The time that mothers spend breastfeeding is a special time for moms and babies to bond and spend time together. There’s nothing quite like that alone time you get with your kid.
However, many moms eventually feel run down and burdened by breastfeeding.
Eventually, having to feed multiple times a day takes a toll on a mother’s body — also, sometimes her mental health. Breastfeeding, while rewarding, is something that’s selfless and can be draining.
Having to constantly feed is a huge responsibility.
Many moms feel that they have little freedom when breastfeeding, because of having to constantly feed and/or pump. This can be extra hard when going to work or going out.
While many moms feel this way, not many moms openly talk about it.
One Instagram influencer decided to open up about the harsh realities of breastfeeding, especially toddlers. After years of feeding her own daughter, she got candid.
Lillian Jamfer, who runs the popular account Instagram @motherjamfar shared a photo of her daughter feeding with a honest caption.
She wrote: “breastfeeding is never easy no matter what age they are. last night was proof for me. night soothing you’re a curse like the a toddler who can’t let go of a paci. sometimes I wish I can pull my boob off and let you have it so I can get a break and sleep throughout the night.”
She explained some of the common sources of guilt she experiences.
“…sometimes I think “you don’t have to still bf her she’s old enough” or “you can put her in her crib” or “wake up her dad to help, he’s a parent too” just things that would probably make it easier for me yet here I am still doing the opposite of “making it easier” but that’s just me, that’s what I’ve felt being a mother is, a breastfeeding mother that is. the best part of all the chaos, the hard work I put in, is somehow always worth it in the end.”
Many moms thanked Lillian for being so candid.
One mom wrote: “Woman, you are goals. I’ve been breastfeeding for about 6 months and those night soothes are killing me. So many nights I just want to call it quits but I don’t. I just keep pushing!!”
Another mom said she could absolutely relate.
“Exactly!!! Every single word resonates with me! I want him to sleep in his crib and I hate being tired all the time because he wakes up and wants the boob, but I love it too… I love giving him what he wants and needs and being there when he opens his eyes. It’s pulling me in both directions!”
And, another called Lillian an “inspiration.”
“You are amazing! And an inspiration with love and realness. You help me forgive my guilt and keep going with breastfeeding. I’ve been only breastfeeding for 9 months and I have my days where “That’s it, I want it to be done with” but you’re one of the moms that remind me that we all go through it. We can do it. It’s for them, not us. They need us right? It’s only for a little while. “
Raising children is never easy and it’s definitely no day at the beach.
Lillian shines light on just one of the many struggles moms go through when trying to give their children everything they possibly can.
Despite some of those bad days, Lillian is just proof that moms are warriors.
From those early mornings to those late nights, no matter how uncomfortable or exhausted she is, Lillian shows up for her kids every day. That’s what being a mom is all about!
