Breastfeeding, Not Just For Baby's Comfort

As I am about to venture back into the realm of 24/7 baby care, I get more and more excited as each day passes. I think of my little Emma constantly and I even dream of nursing her. Her arrival will be a blessing and a joy.

It has been 5 years since I breastfed a baby and that baby decided she was done at 9 months. That was a sad time for me. It broke my heart that my precious one didn't seem to be interested in that closeness anymore. It was as though she was done with me in a sense. The funny thing is that I didn't realize until then how strong an affect that breastfeeding had on me. I saw that breastfeeding was more than just a way to feed my children, but also a way to nurture myself and give myself comfort. Breastfeeding gives me a sense of calm, a way to relax and a way to connect with my babies on a level that isn't possible any other way. I believe that my children learned to trust me and have faith that I would always be there. I believe that it gave me insight into their personalities early on and gave us both the opportunity to receive much needed affection and comfort. Breastfeeding helped me mature and see the value of cherishing the small moments in life.

As a first time mom, I was already determined to breastfeed and it was a good thing, because it took a solid two weeks to get my little boy to latch on properly. I was discouraged, sleep deprived and frustrated; but I knew that I wanted to give it my best shot. I am so glad I did too, because breastfeeding has been one of the most fulfilling and intimate experiences of my life. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I know that I am a better person for having nursed my babies. I know that I am wiser and a more well-rounded person than I would have been had I chosen not to nurse. For me, it was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

Contracting and Sleeping

So, here we are at 36 weeks and 4 days and i started to have some mild real contractions last night. They lasted for about 2 hours, stopped for 2 hours and then started back up around 11:00 pm and lasted an hour. The time is winding down and the excitement builds. i dreamt of nursing a baby last night. the closer we get the more anxious I become. I went to the doctor yesterday and he told me that I am dilated to 2 centimeters already. He says that it is not uncommon for a 4th pregnancy to begin dilating so early. i just want this little girl to come out. Fortunately, I have been sleeping heavy so maybe I won't be exhausted when I do go into active labor.