Nursing Positions & Latching

I learned in my breastfeeding class that women learn how to breastfeed by watching other moms.  Well, sometimes it's difficult to get together with other moms and watch them.  I learned a lot from videos.  It helps to see what latching looks like and how the baby is suppose to respond.  This one has great information!

Postpartum Depression

When I heard about postpartum depression I just knew it wouldn't happen to me.  I thought the emotions would be a "reaction" to the event of giving birth or becoming a mother for the first time.  I figured that I was emotionally ready to become a mother.  However, the hormones were completely out of my control. 

I found myself at the mercy of hormones.  Hormones are necessary for our bodies to function properly.  I learned this the hard way during my treatments for endometriosis.  I underwent a hormone induced menopause and learned first-hand about the need for hormone balance.  Little did I know that the same thing happens after giving birth.  The hormonal changes were out of my control and dramatically changed my mood and emotions.

I would cry uncontrollably on the shoulder of my husband.  Literally soaking his shirt.  He was so understanding and kind.  He knew that it wasn't the real me and was patient with me until things went back to normal. 

I wasn't afraid of my baby or the responsibility of her care.  I just had an overwhelming sense of melancholy that lasted all day and night. I'm pretty sure that the sleep deprivation added to my emotions.  Luckily after 4 months, the crying stopped and I started to feel normal again.
 
Personally, I was surprised by postpartum depression.  If it happens to you, please know that you are not alone! It happens to 80% of new mothers.  Please view this article on Baby Center for more information regarding Postpartum Depression.

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression can begin any time during the first two months after you give birth. Symptoms may include:

• Irritability or hypersensitivity
• Difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety and worry
• Crying or tearfulness
• Anger
• Negative feelings such as sadness, hopelessness, helplessness, or guilt
• Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
• Difficulty sleeping (especially returning to sleep)
• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Changes in appetite or eating habits
• Headaches, stomachaches, muscle or backaches

 

The Honest Truth: It's not easy

Morning sickness, labor pains, and stretch marks.  I didn’t think much about them until they personally happened to me.  After experiencing 4 months of nausea, gestational diabetes, insulin shots, 16 hours of labor, and a cesarean I’ve pretty much been very honest when someone asks me about motherhood.  I have wondered maybe I shouldn't have been so honest?  Honesty is the best policy J

Sure, it’s easy to look at Facebook pictures of your friends who have become parents and think about how cute their little one is.  Although, they don't post pictures of what’s going on behind the scenes. Here’s a picture of what caring for a newborn looks like…

 

 

Yes, this doesn't look so pretty.  LOL!  It's not easy.  Sleep deprivation can do a number on you.  My baby didn't sleep through the night until she was 9 1/2 months.  We had lots of diaper changes and poo in my hair.  Spit up on my shirt and furniture.  Lots of laundry too.  It's a difficult job, but it's all worth it!

 

After it all, I am so thankful for my health.  The gestational diabetes went away within hours of my delivery.  I also recovered well from surgery.  I had a beautiful image in my mind as to how motherhood would be, and the picture has come true...