02/22/2019
It’s been 5 weeks between these photos. And countless changes.
At 1 week , I was still digesting my labor experience, adjusting to mom life and learning how to breastfeed. As much as natural instincts take over, breastfeeding was the biggest emotional roller coaster for me. Nikolai was jaundice and not gaining weight for the first week of his life. And the pediatrician threw formula at me as the cure for both. I felt unheard and frustrated. Luckily, I educated myself and had the support of my doula to help me be patient and allow my milk supply to come in.
We overcame the jaundice and weight gain issues but BF was still a challenge. It took time for us both to learn (after long, painful nights, clogged ducts and minimal sleep) but the journey was worth it. We are both pros now and I enjoy the bonding experience with him every time he feeds.
I alwAys heard BF makes you ravenous but it’s not been the case for me. I’ve been intuitively eating and enjoying the occasional donut and Mac and cheese. I always begin my day with eggs and opt for protein and veggies at dinner.
For the first three weeks postpartum, we only took 2 walks. I was exhausted and my body told me it wasn’t ready to exercise. However, the last 3 weeks we have been walking 30-40mins 5 times a week and my body is loving it!
There isn’t one postpartum journey. I thought I would be chopping at the bit to exercise and get back into the gym. But by listening to my body, I’ve allowed it to adjust and return gradually to its pre-baby state. Im proud of my body and proud of myself for bringing Niko into the world and learning how to be his mother the past 6 weeks. @ Fort Lauderdale, Florida