Everyone is different and no breastfeeding is the same – for some it’s easy, while others need more time and patience. Remember, you have the right to feel good while breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding can be something that can feel distant or alien during pregnancy, and for some, breastfeeding can feel like the most natural thing in the world. Feelings around breastfeeding are highly individual, so don’t compare yourself to anyone else!

For some, the chemical processes during breastfeeding can contribute to a sense of calm and satisfaction. After all, oxytocin, which expresses the milk, is our calmness hormone. For others, this chemical explosion can generate a temporary feeling of anxiety. These feelings are strongly associated with breastfeeding and end after breastfeeding finishes. Just because you’ve been feeling one type of emotion while breastfeeding one baby, doesn’t mean you’ll feel the same way if you were to have another baby.

Earlier on in life, your breasts may have been something that you only associated with sexual activities, and it may seem odd that their focus should now be turned to feeding your child with your breasts. Some people will have also suffered sexual abuse, which can result in negative emotions being associated with the idea of breastfeeding.

It is not uncommon for people close to you to comment on the way you feed your baby. Feeding children is a basic drive for human survival, but that being said, it is by no means OK to belittle each other. Try to find peace in the fact that you are doing what is best for you, your child and your situation. Don’t forget that you don’t have to justify your choices to anyone.