Dear Mom,
It’s perfectly fine that you are the sole person capable of lulling your child to sleep for their nap. It’s also okay that you find comfort in being the only one who can soothe your little one at night. Whether you can envision a night apart from your child or not, both feelings are valid.
At times, it’s natural to feel a hint of resentment toward the immense need your child has for you. Yet, in those same moments, you may feel overwhelmed with love for the bond you share. If your toddler still occasionally nurses during the night, that’s alright. You might find yourself offering to nurse when you’re exhausted and simply want to relax on the couch for a while, or even to prevent a tantrum.
It’s perfectly acceptable to still provide the breast when you feel like it. If there are instances when you wish to nurse less, or you feel “touched out,” those feelings are normal too. It’s okay to sometimes zone out on your phone during nursing sessions, or to experience joy in the coziness of nursing.
If your sleeping arrangements have changed, and your toddler no longer sleeps next to you as often, that’s also perfectly okay. Uncertainty about when weaning will happen is common, and having a plan for a gentle transition is commendable. Whether your nursing toddler nurses more or less than a friend’s child, remember that your experience is unique to you both.
It’s natural to ponder when you might reclaim your life, body, and sleep, but it’s equally valid to cherish the moments you share. You may even find that you don’t long for your past life of “freedom” as much as you thought. Amidst all these feelings—love, frustration, joy, and confusion—know that it’s all part of the journey.
As mammals have breastfed their young for ages, embracing the complexity of emotions is part of the experience. Each mother-child relationship is different and nursing will never look the same for everyone. Listen to your instincts and honor your feelings.
For more insights on parenting and conception, check out this excellent resource on IVF. If you’re interested in fertility boosters for men, you might find useful information in our article about fertility boosters. And for those navigating challenges like vaginismus, this story could provide valuable perspectives.
In summary, embrace the unique journey of nursing your toddler and allow yourself to feel all the emotions that arise along the way.