By: Jenna Thompson
Updated: Oct. 29, 2020
Originally Published: Jan. 11, 2016
As the New Year approaches, I find myself yearning to liberate myself from the constraints of the breast pump. My little one will soon turn a year old, and despite my best efforts, he never quite figured out how to nurse directly. Instead, he managed to turn feeding into a rather painful experience for me! So, I resorted to pumping, a choice that spared my body from further discomfort while also saving on formula costs. Thankfully, I’ve been blessed with an abundance of milk. However, as I’ve learned through conversations with other mothers—particularly those who have faced challenges with low supply—there are notable drawbacks to having a huge milk supply.
1. Constant Hunger and Thirst
While my love for rich foods like butter and cream flourished without immediate weight concerns, sustaining my energy required me to eat and drink constantly. This not only took significant time but also added to my grocery expenses. If I neglected my intake, I faced shakiness and dizziness, necessitating a recovery period to restore my balance.
2. Frequent Blocked Ducts
I abandoned wearing a bra, as even a comfortable one caused too much pressure on my breasts. This also limited my ability to carry my son, and I often woke up with painful lumps and even a fever. Despite my efforts to manage this with supplements like lecithin, I still experienced clogged ducts every month and a half.
3. Dependency on a Machine
Having a large milk supply means relying on a pump every few hours, which can complicate outings. Unlike mothers who can nurse on-the-go, I had to plan for power sources or battery life. The anxiety of potentially being stranded without proper pumping equipment was a constant concern, especially during power outages.
4. Interrupted Sleep
Initially, it was a relief to hand a bottle to my husband and get some uninterrupted rest. However, as time passed, I found myself awake for lengthy periods in the dead of night to relieve milk buildup. This not only extended my pumping sessions but also complicated my sleep schedule, as I had to balance my baby’s feeding times with my pumping routine.
5. Changes to Your Body
While many nursing mothers experience changes in their breasts, it’s still disheartening to witness the effects of constant milk production. After over two decades of having my body primarily for personal reasons, it felt like my breasts had transformed solely into feeding tools. I long for the day they can return to their original purpose.
6. Guilt Over Stopping
The pressure to continue pumping is immense, especially with the narrative surrounding the benefits of breast milk. Despite knowing that countless claims are exaggerated for well-resourced countries, stepping away from pumping often comes with guilt. After all, it’s common to feel selfish for considering alternatives, like formula. However, I recognize that prioritizing my well-being will benefit my child in the long run.
In conclusion, while I once marveled at the miracle of nourishing my child, I now embrace the idea of reclaiming my body and time. As my baby grows and transitions to solid foods, I feel more like myself. The journey has been challenging, but I’m ready to step away from the pump and focus on enjoying quality moments with my little one.
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