Q: What has been the most joyous aspect of breastfeeding for you?
The most joyous aspect of breastfeeding for me is the bond that we have formed. Twins have a very special and unique relationship- that we will never truly be able to understand- but feeding both of the boys together often feels like they’re letting me into their club, and that’s a very joyous feeling.
Q: What has been the most challenging aspect of breastfeeding?
There have been so many moments where I have thought, can I do this?! Having fed a single baby with ease only 2 years ago, feeding both of the boys came with a host of challenges in the early weeks. How do you physically feed both, days on end of feeding, ensuring I kept up my nourishment so I was able to keep up with the demand of both of them, my sore wrists from wrangling them both, cracked nipples that just didn’t get a break! But as hard as it all was, I am so glad we worked together and persevered and I trusted myself and my body to do what it needs to do.
Q: What would you like other breastfeeding mothers/parents to know about breastfeeding?
It can be a wild ride, but it is also the most rewarding job I have ever done in my life! Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you think something isn’t right or think ‘there must be a better/easier/different way’, I wouldn’t still be feeding my boys if I hadn’t reached out to Joelleen. I also think it’s important to do what is right for you and your family… there are a lot of opinions out there from the moment your baby is born you’re going to get a tonne of different opinions, suggestions and recommendations, it’s really hard not to get overwhelmed, but trust your gut and decide what you want to listen to. Enjoy it! It’s so very special. I have tonnes of selfies that will never see the light of day of me feeding at all hours of the day, before you know it they’ll be eating full dinners off a plate with a knife and fork! Take in the moments, and record them if you want so you have the memories.
Photography by Studio Daydot
The full series can be found on Instagram @jwp.ibclc