No Two Are Alike

I’ve been reading a lot of stories from moms about their experiences with newborns, and the impression that leaps to mind is this: No two moms or their experiences are alike. Each of us has our own unique experience with deliveries, our babies’ first days and the challenges that arise as they continue to grow. Past experiences, education and personal circumstances also play a role. What upsets one mother is no big deal to another.

One of my patients was overwhelmed by her experience of an unexpected c-section. Another one, shook her head, and said, that she didn’t care how the baby came out, as long as he was healthy. I have friends and patients who care deeply about exclusive breastfeeding and others who just don’t, are comfortable with formula and unapologetic. I know other moms who try everything, visit lactation consultants, pump every two hours, and do everything short of standing on their heads to breastfeed, and aren’t able to. I know other moms who find breastfeeding to be easy and without challenges. There are moms who use breast milk and formula to supplement every day, and others who stop breastfeeding at 6 months and switch to formula.

I could go on and on about the myriad of ways that different moms feed their babies. Does one size fit all? Is there only one correct path that leads to a healthy and happy baby? I want to hear your story, and what worked for you and your baby. We all have so much wisdom to share with each other and to support one another as we continue on our journey of mothering.