As early as my 4th month of being pregnant, I noticed that not only did my boobs swelled up but are also leaking with milk-like substance already. I guess I am one of those really, really blessed with an abundant supply of milk. With that, plus the fact that my mother breastfed all 3 of us siblings, I wholeheartedly welcomed and embraced the thought of breastfeeding.
I exclusively breastfed my eldest. So when we learned that we were pregnant again, we talked to Kuya who is at that time almost 24 months old. My husband and I told him that much as I want to still nurse him, our bunso will have to be the priority when it comes to breastfeeding. After a lot of cajoling and heartbreaking whimpers from Kuya, he eventually was weaned. But when I gave birth and he sees me nursing our bunso, he would insist on being nursed as well. And so, Kuya regressed, something which his pedia and I approved of but only for some time. Because I do not want him harboring any bad feelings towards his baby brother.
As a breastfeeding mother, I know that I have to take care of myself as well by eating healthy and by taking vitamins or supplements. But I am not a fan of the latter, I tend to forget about taking those stuff. So, having the two kids nurse from me took its toll on me last May 5, 2009. I was rushed to the hospital due to numbness and paralysis of both my hands. After a battery of tests, it was found out that the potassium and calcium stores in my body crashed. Medicines were directly injected into my veins to help bring up the potassium and calcium levels of my body. Afterwhich, I was feeling a lot better already. I was advised to have a daily intake of milk and vitamins.
I didn't mean to scare any of you breastfeeding moms or wannabes out there with the story that I shared. It's just a reminder and wake-up call to those who are like me before. For us to fully enjoy this privilege of nursing our kids, taking care of them and watching them grow up we should be responsible enough to take care of ourselves as well. But what the heck, look at me despite what happened I STILL AM a proud breastfeeding mom.
.jpg)
Wow, that's scary! I only take Vitamin C and, sometimes, iron supplements. I'm relieved to hear you're OK after that.
ReplyDeleteMy friend Ina had trouble breastfeeding my inaanak. During her first few weeks, she won't latch at all! She's rather drink the breast milk from a cup! Na-frustrate sila kasi wala silang skin-to-skin contact, they can hardly bond. Buti na lang, the baby eventually latched. We even contacted the group L.A.T.C.H. for help. Phew!