I was breastfed as a baby. Many of my family members successfully breastfed their babies. So, when I found out I was pregnant I knew I would be breastfeeding my baby. I registered and even received many items that would ensure a great breastfeeding experience. I had the boppy, the fancy breastfeeding cover and I was in the market for the perfect pump, as I would be returning to work. I was set. I was going to feed my baby the “right” way and she would get all the nutrients needed to become a healthy and smart child.
However, many things in life don’t go as planned. Three months before my wedding I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. During the following months I lost a considerable amount of weight and my doctors were trying to find a medication that would allow me to go into remission. Thankfully they found a medication that worked and helped my body heal from the disease. Just a few months later, after achieving remission, I found out I was pregnant. Although my pregancy was considered high-risk, everything went perfectly.
Despite a perfect pregnancy, not everything went as planned. At one of my third trimester OB appointments my doctor mentioned that I should not plan on breastfeeding. She said that one of the medications I was taking was not recommended for nursing. After a lot of research and discussion with doctors and my daughter’s future pediatrician, I decided to go the safe route and feed my daughter formula. I was disappointed and frustrated that Crohn’s had interfered with another part of my life, but I knew keeping myself healthy was vital to being a good mom. If you are a new mom in this situation, here are five pieces of advice from someone in your shoes:
- Be confident in your decision to bottle feed. You are keeping yourself healthy and still providing for your baby.
- You are still bonding with your baby when you bottle feed. You can still look into their eyes, rock and snuggle them.
- Don’t worry about people with an opinion. One man (yes, MAN) told me that I needed to breast feed my child. Some people just don’t have filters and it’s not your problem.
- Your baby will be okay! After seeing a million articles on social media about the benefits of breastfeeding (I know, there are SO many) I was sure that my child would suffer in some way after all that “horrible” formula. Now, she is a very happy and healthy almost three-year-old.
- ENJOY it. Feed your baby as much as you like, but if you need a date with your husband or need to get a few extra hours of sleep, let others feed your baby. They will love it and you will enjoy the break.
Since I had my first daughter the recommendations for my Crohn’s medication have changed. I was able to nurse my second daughter part-time and I am happy to have experienced breastfeeding. So, if you are in my situation now, someday you may have the opportunity to nurse. But if you do not, remember that you are doing an amazing job feeding your baby. You are a healthy mama and you can relax and enjoy the experience of motherhood.
