Can I vent a little here?? When I first got pregnant (well… I guess before then too) I knew that I wanted to do everything I could to successfully breastfeed my baby. I read about all of the health benefits of breastmilk and the statistics of breastfed babies vs. formula fed babies. I was very aware of the different problems I could have and the ways to get help if needed.

Now that I am actually breastfeeding I am lucky enough to have had no major problems and no supply issues. I had a bit of thrush early on but that was quickly resolved by applying yeast cream to the nips (yes, I put vag yeast cream on my boobs!). E seems to enjoy breastfeeding as much as I do and it just feels so natural.

Now that I’ve been breastfeeding for 7.5 months I’m starting to get comments from various people about when I am going to stop. Why do people feel the need to ask this? Why would I consider stopping? Why would I share this personal information with others??? I completely understand if a family member or close friend were to ask this if they were truly curious but I get this comment from people I barely know and from co-workers.

My standard answer is I’ll stop when he wants to. And I get various reactions. Some are shocked that I would even think about breastfeeding after he gets teeth or after he turns one. Others ask if he wants to keep breastfeeding until he’s in school will I continue. And sometimes I get the jaw-drop. “Seriously? You’d breastfeed for that long? Isn’t that a bit weird?” Again, there’s a line… and they just crossed it. I shouldn’t have to justify myself with regards to how I raise/care for my child.

And FWIW, I will probably try to wean E when he’s two if he hasn’t already done so himself. I don’t mind getting through the teething. I don’t mind the night wakings. I don’t mind his using me for comfort by nursing. I actually quite enjoy it. I am nourishing my baby and he is thriving. And if he chooses to earlier than we’ll do that.

This post is in no way criticizing those who choose to formula feed, or who breastfeed for a few months. I think that whatever works out best for the family is the best thing to do. And this works for us.

Now you tell me how you feel on the subject. I know I don’t have a lot of readers but those of you who read my blog… let me know how you feel 🙂