There are numerous reasons to breastfeed obviously. I stopped to think for a moment though and asked myself the question “why did I breastfeed?” I think for me the main reason was because I felt that it was the best thing for my baby. God designed my body and made my milk especially for my baby and I knew it was the best thing for them and I was very determined that no matter what we were going to do this! I have a bit of a stubborn streak in me (ok if you ask my husband he would say more than a bit) and I won’t easily take no for an answer when a challenge is presented to me. Though we have faced rough patches I have loved nursing my babies and am very proud to have exclusively breastfed 4 babies to at least 12 months old or more.
There were several other reasons as well that led to my decision to breastfeed. For one thing my breasts were always handy when the baby got hungry. All I had to do was lift up my shirt and, viola, there the milk was already mixed and warm and ready for baby! I liked this very much because I am a little lazy and mixing and washing bottles was not at all appealing to me.
Another major factor in the decision to breastfeed was the price of formula. It was just not in our budget at the time. I know that programs like WIC can provide you with formula if you need it (even a little if you breastfeed too), but it was just something I didn’t want to start.
Breastfeeding has also been a great calming tool as well. If your baby gets hurt or doesn’t feel well, often a few minutes at the breast can make everything all better. Something about the act of nursing releases calming chemicals (which is why we both often fall asleep together while nursing too I guess).
Breast milk also has antibodies in it that help keep your infant healthier which is a major plus. A sick baby is miserable for all parties. Some studies suggest that it also reduces your risk of getting breast cancer too.
I asked my husband the question and he said that husbands like it too because it makes our boobs nice and big! Although on the flip side they are mostly hands off though due to the risk of being shot with milk! Real sexy.
One of the best things about nursing though is looking down at that precious gift from God and feeling their tiny body pressed up against yours and knowing that they are a part of you and feeling the bond grow between the two of you. It’s an awesome thing. I just love my babies.
Succeed when you breastfeed 