The Bond, the Breakdown, and the Beauty of Breastfeeding

Google defines breastfeeding as “the process of feeding an infant milk directly from a mother’s breast, providing essential nutrients and antibodies for optimal growth and development.” And honestly, that sounds amazing—because it is amazing. That would be a definite pro. But what that simple sentence doesn’t capture is just how heavy and overwhelming it can feel, especially in the beginning.

When you first start breastfeeding, everything is new. It’s exciting, yes, but also hard. Like, really hard. You’re adjusting to this completely different schedule, your body is doing a million things, you’re exhausted, and everything is unfamiliar. I’ve had a long night and an even longer morning—and it’s only 9:45 a.m. CST.

Breastfeeding creates a bond that’s truly out of this world. There’s nothing like it. But the truth is… it gets clingy. Your baby needs you constantly. And while you want to be there, you also have to go back to work. You have to clean up. You have to take care of your other kids, your home, your partner, your friendships. You’re still someone’s daughter. You’re still you.

But your baby doesn’t understand all that. They’re so little. They just need you, and sometimes that’s heartbreaking. They cry, and you want to cry too—but somehow, you keep going.

And let’s talk about weaning. Whew. That part is no joke. Once again, your baby doesn’t understand why something they’ve always known is suddenly going away. The doctor might say, “It’s okay if they cry,” but it doesn’t always feel okay. It can break you down. It’s hard. All of it is hard.

But mama, if you’re reading this and you’ve had one of those days—please know you’re not alone. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. This doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. The rain doesn’t last forever, and the greater reward is always around the corner.

So take your time. Be patient with yourself. And if you feel like sharing, I’d love to hear your breastfeeding story.

Sending love.

TTYL.