It's OK to Take A Break! How to Restart Breastfeeding Between Gaps
By: The Willow Team
We want to assure you that whatever decision you make about your breastfeeding journey, it's entirely valid. Breastfeeding is a challenging and often emotionally charged experience, even when everything seems to be going smoothly.
Embarking on a breastfeeding journey is no small feat, and sometimes, a break is more than just okay – it's necessary. Taking a break doesn't make you any less of a supermom; in fact, it makes you a mom who prioritizes her well-being.
If the thought of not going back to breastfeeding after a break crosses your mind, know that it's perfectly okay, too. Your comfort and peace of mind matter, and choosing a feeding method that aligns with your needs is an empowering decision.
For those moms who decide to resume breastfeeding after a break, this article is here to guide you through the process. Let's explore the steps and tips to make the transition smooth and stress-free. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach, and your journey is unique – just like you.
Can I Take a Break From Breastfeeding?
Yes. Absolutely, yes, you can. It's essential to recognize that motherhood is a journey filled with twists and turns, and taking a break from breastfeeding is a choice that many moms make for various reasons. Here are a few examples:
Health concerns (mom or baby): Sometimes, health concerns arise making a temporary break from breastfeeding a thoughtful and necessary decision. Putting health first is always a valid reason to switch up your feeding routine.
Personal reasons: Whether it's a need for personal space or a desire to share feeding responsibilities, personal reasons are completely valid. If you need to make a choice that aligns with your individual needs and well-being, that is absolutely okay.
Going back to work: The return to work is a big transition, and some moms opt for a break from breastfeeding to navigate this shift.
Mental health concerns: Mental health is a crucial aspect of well-being, and if breastfeeding becomes a source of stress or anxiety, taking a break can be a positive step.
It's important to note that any reason that feels important to you as a mom is valid. Your journey is unique, and the decisions you make are valid expressions of your care and love for yourself and your baby.
Deciding to Restart Breastfeeding
You're at the crossroads of considering whether to restart breastfeeding – a decision that's both personal and momentous. Let's make this journey easier:
Think about why you took a break in the first place. Are those reasons still lingering, or has the landscape changed? Both you and your little one need to be on board for this adventure. If any uncertainties persist, chatting with a lactation consultant or doctor can offer some clarity.
Remember, restarting doesn't mean you're signing up for exclusive nursing. It could be about incorporating pumping into the mix as well or even pumping exclusively. Define what restarting looks like for you and your baby – it's a choose-your-own-adventure kind of situation.
Restarting Breastfeeding
Embarking on the journey of restarting breastfeeding can feel like a fresh start, and it's all about finding your rhythm. Here are some steps to guide you through this process:
1. Take Off the Pressure
First and foremost, take a deep breath and release the pressure. Embrace the restart as a new chapter without the weight of expectations. This step is about creating a positive and nurturing environment for both you and your baby.
2. Use a Breast Pump to Stimulate Your Milk
Introducing a breast pump can be a helpful ally in kickstarting your milk supply. Pumping can stimulate lactation and provide you with a gauge of your milk production. It's like a gentle nudge for your body to get back into the breastfeeding groove.
3. Talk With a Lactation Consultant About Any Issues
Communication is key. If you encounter any challenges or have concerns, talking to a lactation consultant can provide valuable insights and tailored advice. They're the support team you need to navigate any bumps in the road, ensuring a smoother restart.
4. Create and Maintain a Schedule
Establishing a feeding schedule can bring a sense of routine to your breastfeeding journey. Consistency in timing helps your body anticipate and respond to your baby's needs. This step is all about finding a schedule that works for both you and your little one, creating a harmonious breastfeeding routine.
What Will Help Increase My Milk Supply?
You're diving back into the breastfeeding game – high five! But let's keep it real; restarting means firing up that milk supply again. Depending on how long you've been on a break, it might need a bit of a wake-up call. No worries, we've got your back and some tips up our sleeves.
Power Pumping
Now, let's talk power pumping – the secret sauce to get that milk flowing. Especially with the Willow pump, it's all about shorter, more frequent pumping sessions that tell your body, "Hey, we need more milk!" Get the lowdown on power pumping and why Willow makes it a breeze right here.
Focus On Your Diet
Your diet plays a very important part in your milk supply, and while some foods can actually have a negative effect on your supply, there are other foods that can increase your milk supply. If you need some ideas, check out these breastfeeding meal plans designed to keep your milk production on point.
Hydrate
Don't forget the power of hydration! Keeping those fluid levels up is key while breastfeeding, and it does wonders for your milk supply.
Trust Willow Pump to Help You Restart Breastfeeding!
Restarting breastfeeding can be a journey, and with Willow by your side, it becomes a smoother ride. From power pumping to tracking your sessions with the Willow App, our pump is designed to make the process seamless. Explore the benefits of the Willow pump and take charge of your breastfeeding journey.
Ready to make restarting a breeze? Shop the Willow Go™ Wearable Breast Pump today. Unsure which one suits your needs best? Trust Willow to make restarting breastfeeding a journey worth celebrating!