I’m a mother of seven.
Yes, you heard that right – seven amazing children!
When I was just 18 years old and had my first baby, I didn’t initially embrace breastfeeding. It was something the women in my family did not encourage; therefore, I lacked awareness of the incredible benefits it could bring.
I missed out on that experience with my first two children.
However, as I continued on this motherhood journey, I discovered that breastfeeding creates an extraordinary bond between a mother and her baby. It also provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and hormones crucial for a baby’s development and immune system.
Breastfeeding turned into a truly beautiful experience, and I’m immensely thankful for those moments I’ll cherish forever.
My perspective changed when my healthcare provider encouraged me during my third pregnancy. This time, I had the opportunity to learn more and access all the necessary tools to navigate this journey. I’ll be honest; breastfeeding wasn’t a walk in the park, and it was different with each child. I often faced challenges, from baby latching issues to nipple chafing – the latter being the toughest part for me, and many of the challenges are just too hard for many to overcome.
But the rewards of breastfeeding are immeasurable.
I began to see breastfeeding being promoted and celebrated everywhere, making it feel like a more natural part of motherhood. I realized that it offers incredible benefits for the baby and the mother, nurturing a strong bond and potentially reducing the risk of certain health issues. None of which I was told by the women in my family. Breastfeeding was viewed as too time-consuming and honestly repulsive. However, breastfeeding played a crucial role in my postpartum recovery. And for my baby, breastfeeding directly contributed to their growth and development.
It’s important to acknowledge that while breastfeeding can be an incredibly positive and rewarding experience, it also comes with its share of challenges and difficulties.
Your journey might not mirror mine; every experience is unique. If you ever need support or guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals and support networks. Gather a support system around you that listens to you and who you can lean on and are willing to answer any questions you may have during your journey.
In my experience, this journey was filled with doubt, joy, anxiety, sleepless nights, a profound sense of accomplishment, bonding, fear, appreciation, moments of depression, and so many more emotions.
But I am so grateful that I chose to do it. Without knowing the benefits and the huge support of my spouse, I may have given up much sooner.
In total, I breastfed for 66 months, and I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything in the world. Looking back to my seventh baby, born in 2022, I can’t help but wonder how different my health and my baby’s health might have been if I could have breastfed (I developed postpartum pre-eclampsia). Healthcare professionals recommend breastfeeding for the first three to six months and continuing alongside complementary foods for up to two years or more.
I wholeheartedly agree with this recommendation, especially for African-American women.
There’s nothing wrong with giving your baby formula, Mama, but why not choose the natural and safer option if you can? It’s said that only 66% of black mothers breastfeed compared to 82% of white mothers and other races of minorities.
Don’t be afraid to embrace this incredible journey, even if you have to embrace it alone!
Guest Contributor: Lakesha Davis
Lakesha Davis, a Pensacola native, is a dedicated mother of seven, a devoted wife, and an accomplished UWF alumna. She is also an experienced entrepreneur with a diverse range of ventures. Throughout her career, Lakesha has actively collaborated with numerous local nonprofits, including esteemed organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Junior League of Pensacola, Gulf Coast Kids House, Mr. Robbins Neighborhood, and several others. She has also worked as a freelancer for two prominent magazines in the Northwest Florida region.
While pursuing her Master’s degree in Database Administration and building two small businesses, Gulf Coast Panorama and Entrelife Magazine, she continues to express her love and passions. Beyond her professional pursuits, Lakesha finds joy in her personal interests, such as indulging in thrilling movies, traveling, and exploring diverse cuisines. Currently, she actively contributes to her community as the Co-Chair of Donor Relations with the Junior League of Pensacola, a Board member of Tappan Consulting, a founding member of the Gulf Coast Minority Chamber Women’s Committee, and a member of Impact 100 Pensacola Bay Area, the Pensacola Women’s Alliance, and Powerful Women of the Gulf Coast.
