My Breastfeeding Reality: Why 75% of Moms Quit by 6 Months

Did you know that only 25% of new mothers are still exclusively breastfeeding by six months? That statistic hit me like a ton of bricks when I first read it, especially since I was part of that 75% who didn’t make it. My breastfeeding journey reality was nothing like those peaceful Instagram photos with perfectly latched babies and glowing moms!

The truth about breastfeeding is messy, complicated, and honestly? Sometimes it just plain sucks. But it’s also incredibly rewarding when things finally click into place.

The First Few Days: Welcome to the Chaos

Nobody prepared me for how difficult those first 72 hours would be. I mean, everyone talks about labor being tough, but breastfeeding? That was supposed to be “natural,” right?

Wrong. So very wrong.

My little one had what I now know was a tongue tie, which made latching nearly impossible. Every feeding session felt like torture, and I was convinced I was doing everything wrong. The lactation consultant at the hospital made it look so easy, but the moment she left, we were back to square one.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me: it’s okay if it doesn’t work immediately. Your milk supply needs time to establish, and your baby is literally learning a new skill too.

The Emotional Rollercoaster Nobody Talks About

The breastfeeding struggles hit my mental health harder than I expected. I remember crying over spilled breast milk – literally crying over spilled milk! – because every drop felt so precious when production was low.

The guilt was overwhelming. Society puts so much pressure on new moms to breastfeed exclusively, and when it doesn’t work out perfectly, you feel like you’re failing your baby. I spent countless nights googling “low milk supply” and “breastfeeding problems” at 3 AM, which honestly just made me more anxious.

But here’s the thing – postpartum anxiety is real, and breastfeeding difficulties can definitely trigger it. Don’t suffer in silence like I did for those first few weeks.

Finding What Actually Works

Around week three, things started to shift. I finally found a lactation consultant who understood tongue ties and helped us get that sorted out. Game changer!

I also discovered that pumping wasn’t the enemy I thought it was. Some days, bottle feeding my own pumped milk was what kept us going. It gave my poor, cracked nipples a break and let my partner help with feedings too.

Power pumping became my secret weapon for boosting supply. Basically, you pump for 10 minutes, rest for 10, then repeat this cycle for an hour. It tricks your body into thinking there’s a growth spurt happening.

The Unexpected Challenges

Just when I thought we had it figured out, new challenges popped up. Growth spurts meant cluster feeding sessions that lasted hours. I’m talking about being glued to the couch for what felt like entire days!

Then there was the dreaded mastitis at month four. Nothing prepares you for feeling like you have the flu while trying to continue nursing. But pushing through it (with antibiotics, of course) actually helped maintain my supply.

Public breastfeeding was another hurdle. Despite all the “breast is best” messaging, I still got weird looks and comments when nursing in public. A good nursing cover became my best friend, even though I shouldn’t have needed one.

The Victories Along the Way

But oh, the victories! The first time my baby latched perfectly without any fussing – I literally did a happy dance. When my freezer stash finally had more than three bags of milk, I felt like I’d won the lottery.

By month six, breastfeeding had become second nature. We could nurse anywhere, anytime, without drama. Those quiet moments in the middle of the night actually became precious instead of exhausting.

The bond that developed through breastfeeding was unlike anything I’d experienced. There’s something magical about being your baby’s primary source of comfort and nutrition.

What I’d Tell My Past Self

If I could go back and talk to that overwhelmed new mom, I’d tell her to lower her expectations and raise her support system. Every breastfeeding journey is different, and there’s no shame in needing help or making adjustments.

Fed is best, whether that’s breast milk, formula, or a combination of both. Your mental health matters just as much as your baby’s nutrition. Don’t let anyone shame you for doing what works for your family.

Also, invest in a good breast pump from the start. I wasted so much time with a cheap one that barely worked. The CDC has great guidelines on pumping and storage that I wish I’d found sooner.

Your Journey Is Valid

Whether you breastfeed for two weeks or two years, your journey is valid. Some of us make it to that one-year mark, others don’t, and that’s perfectly okay. The most important thing is that you’re taking care of yourself and your baby.

Remember that every mom’s breastfeeding story is unique. What worked for your sister or best friend might not work for you, and that doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

If you’re struggling with your own breastfeeding journey, know that you’re not alone. The reality is messy and complicated, but it’s also beautiful in its own way. For more real talk about motherhood and all its challenges, check out more posts here at Valery Teddybear – because we’re all just figuring it out as we go!