We gathered in a circle, some of us seated on metal folding chairs while others settled into worn floral couches that likely dated back to the 1980s. As I surveyed the room filled with mothers, some cradling infants and others not, I found myself questioning my presence there. My eyes were drawn to a child, clearly a toddler, who meandered around the space, occasionally returning to her mother for a quick sip of breastmilk.
“It’s just a breast,” I reminded myself. “This is her choice to continue nursing her toddler, even if I feel uncomfortable.” These thoughts swirled in my mind as I tried to suppress any judgment about the mothers at this La Leche League meeting.
As a new mother seeking guidance on public breastfeeding, I was navigating this unfamiliar territory. I had a baby boy at home, and our breastfeeding journey was going relatively well. However, every time I nursed him in public, anxiety washed over me, and I found myself fumbling nervously with my nursing cover, trying to maintain modesty.
Having worked as a lawyer, I was used to a more formal environment. The casual discussions about motherhood, breastfeeding, and even diaper changes felt foreign to me. Fortunately, my best friend accompanied me (after some persuasion), and as we walked to our cars afterward, I remarked, “Can you believe that woman nursing her toddler? That’s wild. I could never do that.”
Ah, the simplistic and judgmental thoughts of my younger self.
Fast forward to today, and I am a mother of three: a 6-year-old, a 4-year-old, and a 2-year-old, who I am still breastfeeding. I have been nursing for six continuous years, having gone through two pregnancies while continuing to breastfeed. I even tandem-nursed my children, with one on each breast, before gradually weaning them at around 3½ years old. Yes, I breastfed my kids well past the age of 3.
Importantly, I have never aligned myself with any extreme extended breastfeeding movements or parenting ideologies that dictate how long mothers should breastfeed. I hold no interest in the so-called mommy wars; as long as children are fed in a way that is healthy and appropriate, I’m supportive.
I am simply a regular mom, navigating the complexities of parenting like everyone else. After attending a couple of meetings, I chose not to join La Leche League. I focus on what works best for my family, and I encourage you to do the same for yours. Whether you choose breast or bottle, you have the autonomy to decide what is best.
Further Resources
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Conclusion
In summary, every mother’s journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Embrace your choices and prioritize what feels right for your family.
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