The narrative surrounding breastfeeding usually involves the fact that it’s challenging, it’s tiring, it’s a sacrifice, and it’s what’s best for baby. In my experience, all of this is true. However, there happens to be some breastfeeding benefits for moms, too. If course, some of the physical perks are well documented and better explained by medical professionals, but I’m talking about the benefits for mom that aren't necessarily scientifically quantifiable. In fact, the real reason breastfeeding was worth it for me had nothing to do with biology or hormones or burnt calories, and everything to do with the regular time it gave me with my son.
Even when I wished I could have done better for my son on a particular day (because let's face it, some days you feel like you just can't win) breastfeeding was that something special that we had together and that the two of us shared. That reminder, and those moments, were crucial to me in growing as a mom and gaining my confidence and seeing the good when I had a not-so-good day.
Of course, every mom and baby are unique, so every mom and baby will have different experiences. Still, if anyone out there is nervous about, or struggling with breastfeeding, please know that it’s not all bad. You’re allowed to enjoy it and you’re allowed to appreciate some parts of it for what they do for you and just you. After all, these moms did: