Today I'm happy to share some comments from Karla, who modeled for Motherwear's winter line this year. I got to meet her at the photo shoot last fall, and she was kind enough to share her experience and advice here.
What has your breastfeeding experience been like?
Breastfeeding for me has been the best feeling in the world! To have that loving bond between you and your baby, and knowing that you are giving your baby the best meal possible! I love knowing that my baby has that sense of security when he's nursing, that mama's right there and nothing in the world can keep us apart. That takes first place in my heart.
What is your favorite thing about nursing?
I always wonder why women don't want to breastfeed. The health benefits are endless, besides lowered risk of breast cancer and heart attack for the mother, your body can do that and more for the baby. You give all the immunities you built up through your life and pass them on to your child. Also, if you or your baby pick up something like a bacterial skin problem for instance, your body makes antibodies to get rid of it and feeds it to your baby. That alone is amazing and opens you up to how wonderful the body really is. Also when I nurse I know that's a very special time between me and my baby, and we have become so much closer because of that. I love when he nurses and in mid-nurse will break off, smile at me and call me "aaboo" - his name for mommy. Those moments are priceless to me for now and forever.
How do you make breastfeeding work given your work schedule?
Well, I am a freelance model. So I think breastfeeding is the way to go. It's so much easier than formula feeding and less time consuming, not to mention a lot less money. If I need to go anywhere without my baby I just pump a little milk and I'm out the door. It's really the easiest way to go.
Where have you gotten support and help with breastfeeding?
I am a member of the La Leche League International and recommend them to anyone and everyone who nurses! It's a great way to find mommies in your area, and a wonderful way to ask and give help to other moms. There is also a La Leche League leader there to help you with anything you need. I also had some breastfeeding classes at the Lenox Hill hopsital, those were wonderful as well. In the beginning it can be hard, but really try to stick with it because nursing really pays off in the end, for you and your baby. I wouldn't have it any other way!
Is there any advice you could give other nursing moms based on your experience?
Nursing pads, nursing pads, nursing pads! I always find myself running to grab something to catch my let down so it doesn't run all over my clothes. I think you could never have too many pads to either put in your bra, or on your shirt to help catch the flow. Also, just really keep with it. If it's hard for you, it really pays off in the end, I can't express that enough. I love it and have never had a better time in my life!
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