Over the past few days, I've been getting a thorough education in just how tough moms really have to be. Two days ago, my right breast started to feel like some sort of crazy rock garden and latching on (which, for those of you who don't breastfeed, is the moment when the baby starts to suckle) gave the equivalent sensation to putting one's nipple in a vise and twisting. I was so far gone on sleep deprivation that I considered the above symptoms within the realm of "normal."
It was only when Charlie questioned me for the third time that we took my temperature and discovered I had a fever of 102 and, according to our midwife, mastitis. So now I am taking antibiotics every six hours plus tylenol to keep the fever down and a persistent marathon-length headache at bay. I was initially concerned that the drugs might affect my breastmilk, but the midwife said they're safe for the baby.
With all of this, though, I'm not hesitating for a moment about my committment to breastfeeding. Though momentarily excruciating when he starts, I love that blissed-out look he has at the end of a feeding and I feel such a sense of accomplishment that I am providing him all the nutrients he needs to grow strong.
Sleep, lack of pain, showers, eating at normal mealtimes, speaking in intelligible sentences; they're all overrated next to being Jori's mom.
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Dear Alison, It is so much joy to hear you so happy, and once the mastitis is past, the nursing experience will no doubt bring you bliss too. I really loved it...the mutuality with your newborn, the pleasure, the wonder. Lee
ReplyDeleteAlison,
ReplyDeleteOh Alison I am so happy that you and Jorian are healthy and home. What a birth story... I am sorry to hear about the mastitis - I know how painful that must especially on top of regular breastfeeding issues, sleep deprivation etc. I would love to visit you and bring you a meal. Tuesdays are usually good for me (I was thinking Tues April 7) - I will call you to set up a time....
Love,
Michelle
Mastitis just sucks, Ali. I'm so sorry. Hopefully it passes quickly and you can get back to enjoying breastfeeding. It is your superpower! :-)
ReplyDeleteWe're glad to hear you're home and (relatively) healthy! Let us know if you need anything or want a visit.
ReplyDeleteLeora & Eric
Hey Alison,
ReplyDeleteKeep at it, lady! I am sending all my support vibes to you. I've also got a die hard commitment to breastfeeding which, thankfully, my husband totally understands. Boobs4Food... YAY.
Sorry to hear about the mastitis, though. If you're breast is hot and uncomfortable you might try cabbage leaves. Since they are cool from the fridge (but not frozen) and conform nicely to the shape of one's breast, they're easy to slip inside a nursing bra or tank and they help draw the heat out. It sounds kind of kooky, but lots of dedicated breastfeeders swear by the soothing effect they can have. Plus it's way cheaper than soaking maxi pads in water and freezing them (another thing that often gets recommended).
xoxo,
Becky