August is the month of National Breastfeeding and we are in the midst of World Breastfeeding week {August 1-7}. This week we are sharing breastfeeding stories, encouragement, battles, and ways to make it a little easier.

*** Thank you to all of our breastfeeding models for participating in this series promoting World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month. We appreciate your willingness to support this series. ***

When my son was born, I was fully committed to breastfeeding for 1 year. I knew breast was best and was fortunate enough that everything worked. Our breastfeeding relationship lasted for 14 wonderful months. We definitely had our challenges, but overall, I loved it! When I got pregnant with my daughter, I just assumed I would do the same thing – a year more or less and be done! Well, as is typical for my personality, I continued to read about breastfeeding while pregnant and started reading about the benefits to extended breastfeeding. Hmmm… Extended breastfeeding? What could be the benefits to having a TODDLER still breastfeeding? Why would I still want to be wearing nursing bras and smelling like milk for 24+ months? Well…

• Toddlers who have been breastfed from 1-3 years have been found to have fewer illnesses, illnesses of shorter duration, and lower mortality rates.
• In 1 study, breast milk provided 32% of the child’s total energy intake.
• Extensive research on the relationship between IQ and breastfeeding has shown the greatest gains for those children breastfed the longest.
• Breastfed babies are less likely to develop diabetes, heart disease and central nervous system disorders (like multiple sclerosis).
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast, ovarian, uterine, and endometrial cancer. It protects against rheumatoid arthritis and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.

So far Drew and I have been breastfeeding for 19 months. We have definitely had more challenges than I did with my son – Drew wouldn’t take a bottle for 3 months (and pretty much hated the bottle the entire time we used it), she refuses to nurse covered, she has had a pretty terrible latch most of the time (lots of pain for me) – but it has been SO rewarding because she LOVES to nurse. I can see it soothe her, I can see the added connection we have, it really is so special. I don’t know exactly when we will stop. My goal is 24 months and past that is up to her. I do know that I’m extremely glad I made the decision to breastfeed my toddler!

What was the BIGGEST benefit for you from breastfeeding?