When I was expecting, I envisioned the blissful moments of early parenthood. I imagined a smooth labor experience, effortless breastfeeding, and a flat tummy after giving birth. However, the reality of motherhood is chaotic, unpredictable, and filled with tough decisions. Here are some things from my inaugural year of being a mom that I refuse to regret (and neither should you).
1. Opting for a C-Section
The stigma surrounding C-sections often leads to misconceptions about their necessity. Let me clarify: they aren’t handed out like candy at the doctor’s office. I was desperate for one. My baby was in a Frank breech position, causing immense discomfort. Despite my pleas, I was told to wait for my scheduled C-section at 39 weeks. When my water broke at 38 weeks, I was relieved, without much thought about the surgery ahead. That realization hit me like a freight train as they wheeled me into the operating room. I may have had a C-section, but I can assure you that there was nothing easy about it. The procedure was intense, and my body bore the marks of that experience. I don’t regret how my son entered the world; he’s healthy, and that’s what matters.
2. Choosing Formula Feeding
With all the emphasis on breastfeeding, it’s easy to feel sidelined if you choose to formula feed. I firmly believe that “fed is best,” whether through breastfeeding, donor milk, or formula. My own medical issues prevented me from producing any milk, and I felt disheartened by the lack of support for mothers who can’t or choose not to breastfeed. Switching to formula was a positive change for our family, allowing my husband to bond with our son during feedings. Our little one has thrived on formula, and I have no regrets about that decision.
3. Letting Him Cry It Out
We moved our son to his own crib at just 13 days old. With my husband returning to work, we needed a routine. We embraced the “Moms On Call” method, which includes a brief period of letting him cry it out. It worked wonders—he slept through the night by 10 weeks. Yes, we still use this technique, and it fits our family perfectly. Our baby has always gone down while awake, and I stand by that choice.
4. My Husband’s Involvement in Bath Time
Since our baby was born, my husband has taken over bath time duties. I asked him to do this because I felt it was essential for their bonding. While he sometimes manages work calls during this time, we established that bath time would be their special moment together. It gives me a breather to manage household tasks, and I believe it’s crucial for both of them to share this experience. I have no regrets about this arrangement.
5. Traveling Without Our Baby
Having a baby introduces many changes, and sometimes, couples need a break. Leaving our child in the capable hands of grandparents for a getaway has been rejuvenating for our marriage. Each time we travel without him, I encounter judgment, but we deserve time to reconnect and remember our relationship’s foundation. Our son learns that he is loved, and we cherish our own time together. We plan to continue this practice, ensuring we can sneak in some much-needed rest.
In conclusion, I won’t apologize for these choices. Our family is thriving, and that’s what truly matters. If you’re navigating similar decisions, remember: happiness and health come first.
For more on navigating parenthood and the choices that come with it, check out this insightful resource on pregnancy and home insemination from WebMD and explore various options available, including the At-Home Insemination Kit for those considering self insemination. For further reading on related topics, Intracervical Insemination provides valuable information.