This post is sponsored by Kindred Bravely. I was compensated in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions stated are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this blog possible.
If someone told me 3 years ago that I would breastfeed two babies, mostly exclusively, I would have genuinely laughed. I never thought I'd breastfeed at all let alone this much. And actually enjoy it. I fully supported my friends who breastfed before me, never batted an eye at women doing it at the park or at a restaurant, and have always found it to be perfectly normal and natural. I just didn't think it was for me.
When I was about halfway through my first pregnancy something just changed. I knew without a doubt I was going to try to breastfeed. I still can't tell you why but I like to think it was all part of the plan to prepare me on some level for the way my daughter would arrive into this world. You can read her birth story here, but let's just say it was quite dramatic. I found myself not only willing to breastfeed but desperately wanting to be able to. We struggled hard in the beginning. Every day was a fight but that little voice inside me said to just keep going. After 6 weeks of putting my all into it, Fallon and I found our groove. So much so that she only wanted me from there on out. I fed her with my body alone for the next 13 months when she decided she was ready to move on.
There is nothing anyone can tell you that will fully prepare you to be a mother or for the journey that is breastfeeding. Each story is so beautifully unique. But so many of us struggle in silence. Breastfeeding is tough! It's natural but does not always come so naturally. You and baby have to learn to dance together, find your very own rhythm. It's a brave thing to do. It's also just as brave to recognize your limits and do what is best for you and your child. Whether you breastfeed exclusively, pump and bottle feed, a combination of both or simply bottle feed with formula, you are brave for following your heart. But if you plan to breastfeed, there are definitely a few ways to help make it the most enjoyable experience possible.
Get nursing clothing you love. Let me repeat that. Get nursing clothing you love. The first time around I didn't ask around. I didn't buy quality items and I didn't replace them when I realized they weren't very helpful. My second breastfeeding experience has been vastly different from my first. Axton latched immediately after birth and we didn't struggle in those early weeks like I had the first time around. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't easy peasy. There were tears and frustration, a lot of nipple cream and even more persistence. But what a world of difference it made to have a nursing bra I actually like!
If you've been following along with my story you know that this time around I have talked about only one brand of nursing attire that I actually felt was worth sharing. Kindred Bravely is a company that believes living every day as a mom is an act of bravery. And I whole heartedly agree. So when I was contacted for the post, I jumped at the opportunity to work with a brand that I already loved and want to continue to support. The Marvella Luxe bra is my hands down absolute favorite nursing bra ever. It doesn't even seem like a nursing bra. It's very comfortable and supportive, looks great under all my clothes and easily folds down out of the way with one simple motion. I'm also loving the French Terry Racerback bra to sleep or lounge around in. Comfort is key, especially in those early days and I barely even know I'm wearing this bra, it's so light and soft. And the most versatile piece I own is the Simply Sublime tank. I can sleep it in, throw a cardigan or jacket over it to wear out or wear it underneath not so nursing friendly tops that I may not even wear otherwise.
Breastfeeding is beautiful. However you do it, wherever you do it. You do you mama. But allow yourself to feel all the feelings that come with it. And don't be afraid to share your struggles! We all need a tribe to support us through those lows and cheer with us during those highs. You do not have to do it alone and whatever you're struggling with, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Make your breastfeeding experience as good as it can be with comfortable nursing wear by Kindred Bravely. You can use code HILARYKB20 for 20% off your first purchase either here or here. We want to hear your story! Share it on Instagram using #breastfeedbravely and tag @hkpfeff523. You are so brave mamas!
