Yours Exclusively, 3 Months!

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While I was pregnant, I had already made up my mind to exclusively breastfeed all the little ones that God would bless me with. This decision was made even before I got married and learned about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding. Fast forward to March 2023 when I gave birth to my amazing little muffin.

The nurses tried to guide me through breastfeeding and latching, but my baby just couldn’t latch well or suckle for long periods of time. With my somewhat small and flat nipples, my baby preferred the bottle right from day one. We tried everything to encourage direct breastfeeding, from tricks to helping my own anatomy, but he would quickly get off the breast whenever he could.

In the midst of all these, someone suggested that I start pumping and expressing as much milk as possible. I vividly remember the first time I pumped 20ml of milk – it became the topic of my journal entry for that day. I was overjoyed and couldn’t contain my excitement. Fast forward to the present, and I now pump more than a thousand milliliters per day.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding and enjoyable. I’ve established pumping schedules that I religiously follow, and I am amazed at how productive I can be when I set my mind to it. Consistency has been key, and I’ve found myself pumping in the most unconventional places just to stick to my schedule – like while driving, in church, and even on airplanes! Funny? I know but I had to because if I skipped a session or two, the milk flow and quantity reduces-we don’t want that folks😂

I am grateful for the advancements in technology that have provided electric and hands-free pumps, making the process much more convenient. In fact, I am open to influencing gigs for brands like Modella and Elvie strides breast pump – a humorous thought that brings a smile to my face.

I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to senior women who have been inspiration, and to my sister Anne, who guided me through pumping schedules and acted as my alarm when I started pumping schedules. I am also grateful to those who recommended nutritious meals and supplements for breastfeeding mothers – their support has been invaluable.

This breastfeeding journey has been a beautiful experience, and as we reach the halfway point of six months, I find myself contemplating the possibility of exclusively breastfeeding for a year, just like my mentor. All I can say is that I am truly enjoying every moment of it.

Yours exclusively,

Adebankemo

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