Shared by a mum of two - the highs, lows, and everything in between
Becoming a mum is a life-altering journey — no matter how many times you go through it. But one thing that can feel especially overwhelming in those early newborn days is breastfeeding. It’s natural, we’re told. It’s beautiful, they say. But what’s rarely spoken about in enough depth is how messy, emotional, painful, rewarding, and complex it really can be.
As a mum of two, my breastfeeding journeys with each child couldn’t have been more different. So I wanted to share some of what I’ve learned — one version as a first-time mum navigating it all for the very first time, and one as a second-time mum who knew what was coming… sort of.
The Early Days: Raw, Real, and Rollercoaster-Like
First-time mum: I was completely overwhelmed. Advice was coming from every angle — some gentle and kind, others invasive and quite frankly, too much. I remember leaving the hospital and experiencing one of the hardest nights of my life. My tiny baby couldn’t settle, and I was sobbing in exhaustion and panic. But then I found my lifeline: the Haverhill Breastfeeding Friends group. They offered the calm support I so desperately needed, and over a few visits, we found our rhythm. That moment changed everything. Breastfeeding became a 16-month journey I’m so proud of.
Second-time mum: My littlest latched on like an angel. His first feed was 10 minutes long, calm and perfect. But then came the challenges: negative comments from professionals, and eventually, a diagnosis of tongue tie. My nipples were damaged, my confidence knocked. But he fed like a trooper anyway — and once the tie was fixed, it all got easier. Still, the physical demands and mental load (including the eternal question of is this outfit boob-friendly?!) are very real.
Expectations vs Reality
First time: I honestly expected to fail. My body had let me down in the past and I was terrified it would again. But when I realised I could do it — the pride was indescribable.
Second time: I was terrified it wouldn't happen again. But this time, I had stubborn determination behind me too.
Pain, Complications & Unexpected Feels
Teething babies. Misaligned latches. Emotional crashes. Misshapen nipples. It’s not always picture-perfect. But despite the discomforts and surprises, breastfeeding has also been incredibly grounding.
The Hardest Bit
Wardrobe choices. Yep, not what you expect to top the list, right? But choosing what to wear every day based on breast accessibility can really take a toll on your sense of identity. You stop dressing for yourself and start dressing for function. That mental shift hit harder than I anticipated.
Pressure, Self-Doubt, and Other People’s Opinions
It’s not just the internal pressure — outside voices can be loud too. My own mum struggled to breastfeed and was constantly suggesting formula. I know she meant well, but it was hard to keep going when I felt my choices were being questioned.
“Should I Keep Going?” Moments
Absolutely. Especially when I returned to work days after giving birth. I neglected my supply, nearly lost it, and had to fight to get it back. But I kept going because I was determined. Because I believed in it. Because sometimes, pure stubbornness is a mum's secret weapon.
What Helped Me Cope
Support from other mums. Charities like the Haverhill Breastfeeding Friends. And pumping — which meant occasionally, I could sleep! My partner tried, but the truth is, unless you’ve breastfed, it’s hard to understand how all-consuming it is.
My Bond With My Babies
Those moments — when it’s just you and your little one, skin-to-skin, in your own quiet world — are magic. That bond is something I’ll carry with me forever.
What I’d Tell New-Mum Me
Be confident. You can do this. Ask for help. Don’t suffer in silence. And most of all, believe in your own strength.
A Moment I’d Relive
The serenity. Those peaceful feeds in the dark, just me and my baby — they’re so fleeting. I’m holding onto them tighter this time.
My Body After Breastfeeding
Still working on it. Truthfully, becoming a mother changed my body and how I feel about it… and not always for the better. It’s a journey I’m still walking — and one we don’t talk about nearly enough.
Do We Talk About Breastfeeding Enough?
No. Not honestly. Not rawly. Not in all its complexity.
What I Wish More People Knew
Breastfeeding isn’t just a nutritional decision — it’s a mental health experience. It takes a village, and we shouldn’t pretend mums can or should do it alone.
My One Piece of Advice to You
Life is hard. Motherhood is harder. Ask for help. Be kind to yourself. And remember — fed is best. Your love is what matters most.
💛 From one mum to another — you’ve got this. Whether your journey is one feed, one month, or one year long, it’s yours. And that’s something to be proud of.
Would you love to preserve the raw, real beauty of your breastfeeding journey?
At Yellow Blossom Photography, I offer intimate, emotive breastfeeding photoshoots that capture the deep connection between you and your little one. These aren’t just photographs — they’re powerful reminders of your strength, love, and the quiet moments that pass by all too quickly.
💛 Book your breastfeeding photoshoot today and honour this chapter in a way you’ll treasure forever.
📍 Yellow Blossom Photography – Haverhill, Suffolk
www.yellowblossomphotography.co.uk
lisa@yellowblossomphotography.co.uk
07845 957035
