Feeding your child is a personal choice; I choose to breast feed. With my first child, we had many issues with feeding; latch issues, jaundice and illness, I ended up expressing my milk and bottle feeding for 14 months. Crazy to some; but this shows my dedication and reflects the way in which I value breast milk.
This time round, we weren't sure if baby would be able to latch due to his cleft lip. However, he surprised us all and he has been nursing like a champ! I'm so proud of him and will happily feed him; whenever, wherever!
Today, we've visited a local park and farm and I've encountered my first negative comment regarding feeding. Two women clearly shocked that, "some people still do THAT!" and stating, "Oh my God, she's got her boob out in the park!" These comments were not appreciated. I try not to judge people for bottle feeding formula, that's their choice as a parent. However, I don't appreciate being judged for breast feeding. There's often comments about breast feeders judging formula feeders, but I've actually encountered the reverse. It's not always an easy journey as a breast feeder, and in my opinion, they should be praised, not condescended or patronised!
Those people who know me personally will be very surprised to hear that I kept my cool and just shook my head at their ignorance (I've been told I'm a bit of a Hitler in my lack of patience with stupid people!) Yes, really I did! A witty retort didn't come to me quickly, instead I just continued to feed my son (perhaps a little more brazenly!)
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