Why I Chose Breastfeeding — and What I Learned from Nursing Both My Daughters
One of the first big decisions a new mom faces is how to feed her baby. And while it might seem simple on the surface, the emotions, opinions, and pressure around the topic can be overwhelming.
Let me start by saying this: a fed baby is a loved baby. Whether you breastfeed, formula-feed, or do a mix of both — you are doing your best, and that matters more than anything else.
That said, I want to share from my heart why I chose to breastfeed both of my daughters — and how this journey shaped me as a mother.
🍼 What’s the Difference?
Breastfeeding means feeding your baby directly from your breast or using expressed milk.
Formula feeding involves giving your baby a prepared milk substitute, usually from a bottle.
Both have pros and challenges. But for me, breastfeeding wasn’t just about nutrition — it was about connection, comfort, and confidence.
🌿 Why I Chose to Breastfeed
With my first daughter, I prepared for a natural birth and was deeply curious about how my body could support her afterward.
I read, studied, and trusted that my body would know what to do — and it did.
I breastfed her for 2 full years. With my second daughter, who is still nursing now, the experience has been just as powerful — though with new challenges and lessons.
Here’s why I believe breastfeeding made a difference for us:
✅ Benefits of Breastfeeding (That I’ve Experienced)
1. Natural Immunity Boost
Breastmilk is filled with antibodies and living cells that help protect babies from illness.
I noticed fewer colds, less fussiness, and faster recovery during teething or sick days.
2. Emotional Bonding
Nursing created an unspoken closeness. The eye contact, the stillness, the connection — it wasn’t just feeding. It was anchoring.
3. Convenience (once established)
No bottles, no heating, no sterilizing — just baby and breast. Whether at home or in public, it was always available and perfectly warm.
4. Calming Tool
Breastfeeding helped during tantrums, overstimulation, teething pain, sleep resistance — it became a trusted way to reset the day.
5. Postpartum Healing
Nursing helped my uterus contract, aided in weight loss, and gave me a quiet space to slow down during the chaos of newborn life.
🍼 What About Formula?
There are many reasons why some mothers use formula — low milk supply, health complications, returning to work, personal choice, and more.
Formula is:
- Nutritionally complete
- Convenient when breastfeeding isn’t possible
- A lifesaver for many families
It doesn’t create the same biological response as breastmilk, but it can still nourish your baby beautifully.
💬 My Real-Life Reflection
There were moments when I was exhausted, touched out, and unsure if I could keep going.
But each time I held my daughters close, felt their tiny fingers rest on me, saw their calm sleepy smiles — I knew I wanted to continue.
Breastfeeding wasn’t always easy. But it was worth it — for both of us.
🧡 Final Thoughts for New Moms
Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty — whether you choose breast, bottle, or both.
Listen to your heart. Trust your body. Ask for support.
If you do choose to breastfeed, know that it’s a gift you give both your baby and yourself — one drop at a time.
And if you ever doubt yourself, remember:
You are enough. And you are doing an amazing job.
