The woes of breastfeeding

When the books and experts talk about breastfeeding, it's all about the good things... bottomline is, it's good for the kid...

However, as I was a SAHM without a maid for both my kids during their first year, I have had problems introducing the bottle to them. (You do need someone other than the mother to feed the baby with the bottle, else they will refuse it) I resorted to exclusive breastfeeding..... and I was quite unyielding in ensuring they only take breastmilk and no formula at all when I still could produce enough to satisfy their needs.

But of course, it's this stubbornness that causes me tears, backache and anguish when I have to wean them off the breast..... I am still tearing at the mo, as I am trying to wean Kenneth now....

I forgot how difficult it was with Rachel. But it was not too bad, as she was willing to sip at least some formula from a straw or sippy cup. But now that I am trying to wean Kenneth off, he does not want any formula or milk.... which is a major worry....

Any regrets ?! Will I do it any differently ?!

Hmmm, it's a question that hubby said I do not have to answer anymore, as we have, for the time being, put a full stop to production:)

My attempts to wean

I know I can't wean him off "naturally" like how I did with Rachel...So, this was what I tried...

Lemon juice on my breast... nothing....he just fed like normal

vicks on my breast...... nothing....just fed like normal....

Minyak Angin on my breast....he paused awhile, licked his mouth a bit and rejected the breast..... YAY!!!! was my thoughts..... until 10 mins later, when he was desperate, he just fed like normal......despite the minyak angin...

HELP ME!!!!!

Breastfeeding

yup yup yup....Kenneth is turning 6 months soon, and I am still breastfeeding..... and still pumping out the milk, to maintain supply...:) I reckon I will continue breastfeeding, as it seems easier than transitioning him to formula....and it saves a lot!!! of work and money:)

And these days, I do not throw away the milk anymore:) I pump it out early in the morning, before I make breakfast, and use it for Rachel's Hot Chocolate. and then, the rest of it, I keep for Kenneth's solids:)

I have tried asking Rachel whether she wants to drink my breastmilk, and she has very vehemently said NO!!!! So, I have resorted to making her Hot Chocolate with my breastmilk quietly....and you know what...I think she finishes her Hot Chocolate easier. Maybe coz the milk is lighter, and easier to digest!!! And now that hubby knows I secretly put my breastmilk into Rachel's Hot Chocolate....hmmmm....maybe that's why he is drinking his coffee black now....

My BrestFriend

I forgot to mention this very essential tool in my breastfeeding journey.... MyBrestFriend pillow... During Rachel's time, my cousin loaned hers to me as I was not too sure whether I could breastfeed. This time, before Ken was born, I went out to get myself one!! Great investment... (who said breastfeeding was cheap...)

And also, hubby has also invested in a Medela Swing Breastpump for me!!! He can't stand the effort I take when using my Avent manual pump, which was also good, but tiring....

Lil Kenneth breastfeeding

We will be heading to the doctor's this Thursday for my gynae checkup and also for Ken's jab. We will see how he has been faring with his growth at the doctor.

So far, breastfeeding is still going on exclusively with Lil Ken. I am also doing at least 2-3 times of pumping, to boost up my milk supply, and also drinking the Earth Mama Angel Baby Milkmaid Tea. Am not timing his feeds. Feeding him as and when he needs. Hubby said if possible, avoid the pacifier. So, we have not bought any pacifier yet. Also, we want to try to avoid using the "yiu lam" (cradle) to get him to sleep.

The difference between Rach and Ken: Ken is a rough feeder. Even without teeth, my breasts hurt sometimes, as he loves to yank them, even while feeding. And also, Ken makes lots of grunting noise when feeding as well....

Similarities between Rach and Ken: Ken, like Rachel, does not like to poo into his pampers. Unless really necessary, he will make lots of grunting noises, and cries to get my attention when he wants to poo. I will then take him to the toilet, and make "mm mm" noises, and he will poo into the sink... It saves more diapers, and also, avoid any potential diaper rash. A lot more back-breaking work for me, but am not complaining, as I think it is a good habit. Will be easier to potty train him next time. I remember Rachel sitting in her potty to poo poo the moment she could sit. Am hoping for the same for lil Ken.