It’s been 8 months since I stopped breastfeeding my daughter but every other week or so, I tell my friends how much I miss it. I’ve even gone as far as looking into relactation, which is the process of getting your baby back on the breast after a period of not breastfeeding. Yes, it’s possible but my princess is not interested unfortunately.
Why did that thought cross my mind? Simply because I didn’t choose to stop breastfeeding, although I had dropped a few feeds when my maternity leave ended. My journey ended rather abruptly, after a week away from home for a work trip, that was immediately followed by a hospital stay and treatment with antibiotics. By the time I went back home, my daughter had self-weaned.
It was never perfect or convenient as a matter of fact, but I got a lot of joy and fulfilment out of it. I miss the bonding and having that “one thing” only I could give her.
It’s World Breastfeeding Week and I thought I would reflect on the positive experience that I did get to have and engage with breastfeeding moms through a survey, supported by Philips Avent.
A highlight of some of the benefits of breastfeeding for baby:
- Reduced risk of allergies
- Stronger immune system
- Reduced risk of illness and infections
- Boosts brain development
- Promotes a healthier digestive system
- Calming and soothing effects
I’ve written about my struggles with breastfeeding here as well as the alternative uses for breastmilk here
Philips Avent advocates breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby’s life, because breast really is best for all babies. With this in mind, their products are designed to enhance and support the process of breastfeeding, with bottles that mimic the nursing process and breast pumps to make expressing and storing your milk as easy and convenient as possible. Visit the Philips website for more information www.philips.co.za
If you choose to participate, you will be entered into a Philips Avent giveaway, including a manual breast pump with a soother, both worth R865
Take survey here:
Giveaway rules:
- Entries will close on 10 August 2016
- Winners will be notified by email
- Prizes are not transferable/negotiable and may not be exchanged for cash
- This giveaway is open to South African residents only
Love,
Modern Zulu Mom