Motherwear model Sabrina on her nursing experience.

Today I'm happy to share a guest post by Sabrina, Motherwear model for the Summer line.  She's shown in these pictures with her daughter Alexia, 8 months.

What has your breastfeeding experience been like?

Breastfeeding has been a great experience for me, as I feel that not only am I providing for my little one, but it gives her extra sense of security.  I think it gives us a close bonding experience you can't get from feeding from a bottle.  I enjoy feeding my baby skin to skin.  It relaxes her, especially during bedtime. 

Breastfeeding in public was very challenging at first.  I was terribly shy and awkward.  However, after a few times I became super confident.  I realized that no one notices you breastfeeding if you don't make a fuss out of it.  I always use my wrap for privacy reasons, plus I notice that it helps my baby stay more focused.  

What is your favorite thing about nursing?

That I don't have to get up through the middle of the night to make up a bottle.  I just place my baby in a lying down position and nurse her.  Most of the time I fall asleep before she finishes.  It's a beautiful experience waking up to see your baby snuggled up next to you.  I also must add that nursing helped me to get my figure back real quick.  Every time I nursed I felt the pulling sensation in my belly.  That was a great incentive to keep going.

How do you make breastfeeding work given your work schedule?

I'm currently unemployed but when I'm booked for last minute photoshoots I have pumped milk stored for the carer.  In case I ever have to be away from my darling for more the 4-6 hours I carry my breast pump and a cooler bag.

Where have you gotten support and help with breastfeeding?

I attended breastfeeding classes, Lamaze class, and had a consultation with a lactation expert at Coney Island hospital.  I received great support, and I also had a book given to me by a friend for reference.

Is there any advice you could give other nursing moms based on your experience?

Never ever give up breastfeeding in the early stages.  If you feel that your baby is not getting enough milk count the amount of wet diapers s/he goes through.

One of my biggest worries while I was pregnant was little breast milk supply.  Hot showers or heat packs placed on the breasts encouraged let down before feeding.  Also don't get lazy with the pump.  Use it when your baby misses a feeding during the night.  Even pump right after feeding if you're still full. This will keep up the supply as your baby grows and feeds less often.

I occasionally take Indian herbal tablets called Fenugreek to encourage good milk supply, with my doctor's permission.  Nursing clothes, bras and wraps are a must especially when nursing in public.  It makes life easier, believe me.

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