Welcome back to our 'Milkbar Mamas' series where we speak to women all over Australia about how breastfeeding unfolded for them because nothing #normalisesbreastfeeding more than writing, speaking and sharing all things boobin' related.
From first time mamas to exclusive pumpers, those battling over and under supply, tongue ties, mastitis and everything in between, we are SO excited to share their words and experiences with you. We hope these stories will inspire, give you some tips for your own breastfeeding experience and help those walking a similar path to feel less alone.
In this Milkbar Mama interview I speak with Sian as she reflects on the joys and challenges of breastfeeding her first child, Hazel.
Tell us a little about yourself, Sian
Hey guys! Im Sian - A first time Mother to my daughter Hazel (13 months) And i've been with my partner Rhys for almost 5 years now (time is crazy). I'm 25, I grew up in a rural beach town South-East of Melbourne and I have always dreamt of being a Mother. My favourite game when I was younger was 'Mums and Dads' (lol) and even in primary school I just always thought about being a motherly-figure - So being pregnant felt natural but surreal to me and I'm so grateful to have had that experience! (Shout out to all the IVF couples/couples trying for a baby) I did really struggle postpartum though, I have always had general anxiety so I did get hit with the baby-blues stick quite hard. Super teary, fatigued, depressed and I'm pretty sure I cried myself to sleep every night for at least a week! It's such a hard time because you're in this bubble, you've just had your baby and so many emotions of happiness mixed with guilt and sadness about your life changing forever. It's such a mental time! So please if you are dealing or have dealt with baby-blues or PPD please know that you're not crazy and there is support out there.What surprised you most about breastfeeding?
Honestly, I feel like we winged a lot of our journey! I remember when I was deep in postpartum and the engorgement was so intense my breasts could have burst - I was crying, stumbling around trying to work out how my breast pump worked! I learnt along the way and not every single thing is going to work for every single mother and their baby! Everyone is on a different journey and you just need to go with the flow! Reach out if you need a hand because there are so many resources and support networks out there!
What would be your number 1 tip / words of wisdom for other breastfeeding mamas / mamas-to-be?
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