Funny thing that Bonnie should mention something about breastfeeding and formula. Funny thing, I've been trying to write a blog about breasfeeding for 2 weeks, but my BlackBerry doesn't let me post anything. So, this blog is not meant to offend a single person, but I've had enough with some recent attitudes about my choice to bottle-feed and I wanted to set the record straight. :)
I had a lady in Wal-Mart last week ask me when I was due. I thought that line was taboo, but it wasn't. I told her I'm in my 3rd trimester and can't wait. She asked me if I was going to breastfeed, and I paused for a second because I wasn't sure how I should answer to a stranger, because frankly I felt it was none of her business. She responded, "Formula is NOT the way to go and I can't believe that you would do that to your child." Whoa! I didn't even answer the question, and she walked away before I could say anything...which probably was a good thing.
With Avery, I didn't have many people ask me what I was doing...maybe because I was at a new job and no one really knew me enough to ask. That was cool with me. But I'm finding a lot more people ask me this time around, and look at me funny when I say I'm using formula. And I'm really tired of the attitude.
I have been graced with the laws of genetics when it comes to breast issues. I've had several biopsies to remove fibrous cysts from both breasts, and in that time many of my milk ducts have been damaged. After my most recent surgery, my surgeon said plainly that he couldn't remove all of the cysts because I was too young to have deformed breasts. Thanks. lol Although my breasts produce milk, I will not be able to express enough through my few working milk ducts to produce enough for even one bottle. I talked it over with my OB/GYN the first time around and felt that the safest and most logical position would be for me to formula feed. (And my OB is a strong breastfeeding supporter.) Do I believe that breastfeeding is the best for babies? YES!! And given the chance, I would breastfeed my child, but my body will not allow me to do so adequately.
Thanks for letting me rant. Luckily I'm posting my frustrations on here and not at a stranger in Wal-Mart...
2 comments:
It's hard to believe sometimes how much people will insert themselves into your business that is surely none of their business. I have encountered this with people who think that I should already be popping out babies. My husband and I aren't even sure if we want any kids period. And, I have a disorder that usually ends in fertility issues and I have no interest in doing the in-vitro junk. A little evil part of me enjoys telling people when they bug me about having kids, "I can't, thanks for reminding me". That usually shuts them up pretty quick! :) Yes, breastfeeding is the the best option, but sometimes it just isn't feasible. As long as you know you are making the best decision for you child, nothing else matters.
you know what, Alicia, I think the woman at Wal Mart should hear this kind of thing. Anyone who is rude enough to ask and to judge should be able to handle a quick one sentence repremand telling them that not every woman actually CAN breastfeed (for whatever reason).
You might not want to use your medical problems to shame someone, but I totally would. :) It might just be the bitch in me.
I think everyone knows that breastfeeding is better for the mom and baby, but that "better" is a blanket statement and when we get down to individuals "better" varies.
I'm sorry this has been a hurt for you in the past.
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