In partnership with Tommee Tippee Singapore, we are delighted to introduce you to four incredible real women who have generously shared their unique breastfeeding journeys with us. It is our hope that their inspiring stories can offer support, encouragement, and empowerment to you when you are on your own breastfeeding journey.

Chanel is a 34D and wears the Endearing Maternity Camisole in Black in Large (Plus)

 

Q: Chanel, can you take us back to when you started your breastfeeding journey? 

A: Around 4 or 5 weeks ago, I embarked on this beautiful yet challenging path of breastfeeding my daughter, Hayzee. Initially, I faced challenges with latching - breastfeeding wasn’t like how I thought it would be, as I struggled with initial rejection from my Hayzee, my daughter, so I switched to exclusively pumping. However, I found encouragement in tracking my milk production, seeing a steady increase over time.

Q: It sounds like quite a journey. Did you make any preparations before your baby arrived, such as attending classes or seeking advice?

A: My focus was mainly on preparing for the pregnancy and delivery aspects. I hadn't delved deep into the postpartum planning, breastfeeding preparation initially; it was more so on the products I’ll have to get prepared for, how to take care of my newborn etc. I did seek advice on Youtube such as baby latching positions, but to really do it is a whole other thing.

Q: Family support can be so crucial during this time. Could you share how your husband and family have been involved and what kind of roles they've played?

A: Absolutely! I had a strong support system. My husband has been my anchor throughout this journey. His encouragement during the tough moments and celebrating even the smallest achievements in my every increase in milk production has been truly heart-warming. And my family, they've gone above and beyond, ensuring I have nourishing meals and the right supplements. My friends have too checked in every now and then, and even bought me lactation bakes to enhance milk supply. Their help has lightened the load and allowed me to focus on transitioning into my role as a mom.

Chanel is a 34D and wears the Harper Coverage in Medium (Curvy)

Q: Connecting with other moms can be really helpful. Have you had a chance to interact with fellow breastfeeding moms or seek advice from online platforms?

A: Definitely. Social media has played a big role. Friends who have reached out to me after seeing my online sharing have shared their own experiences and insights on things like milk production and parenting. I've also been a part of a breastfeeding support group on Facebook, which has been helpful.

Q: Balancing motherhood with everything else can be quite a challenge. How have you managed to find that equilibrium?

A: My husband and our confinement nanny have been my pillars of support. They've helped in managing the responsibilities, making sure I don't get overwhelmed, and teaching me the do’s and don’ts in caring for Hayzee and myself.

My husband especially has stepped up in as many areas as possible with caring for Hayzee, such as planning activities we can do with her to help stimulate her development. I guess in a way, our new life revolves around her now! Whenever she takes her naps, that’s when we have time to do what we have to do like have our meals, take a shower, do the chores.

Q: Breastfeeding is often described as a rollercoaster of emotions. Could you share the highs and lows that you faced in this journey?

A: Absolutely. Although I didn't have the traditional skin-to-skin bonding experience, I've found my own quiet moments during pumping where I feel truly connected to Hayzee. I feel a rush of love and emotions when I immerse myself in thoughts of her, plan my daily diary of her photos and videos, and organise her next day outfits and activities. So yeah, my pumping sessions are like a quiet meditation period – where I send my love and warmth to her through the milk that’s coming out of me.

The most heart-breaking point would be when I first tried latching her – she was screaming and actively rejecting. Frustration would be next, when I face engorgement and the pain and discomfort that comes with it.

Q: How has your routine evolved with breastfeeding? Do you have any special rituals or habits that you associate with breastfeeding?

A: Before I had Hayzee, my nights used to stretch until the wee hours of the morning. Now, I find myself thinking, “Time to sleep!” at 9 or 10 pm. <laughs> It's a beautiful change, aligning my schedule with my baby's needs. This shift in my routine has brought such a profound change to my daily life. Ensuring adequate rest has become paramount not only for my well-being but also for milk production and caring for my little one during the day. I've learned that nourishing myself directly impacts the quality of care I can provide to her. 

Q: Amidst all this, how do you ensure you take care of yourself and your well-being? 

A: Self-care has been crucial! I try to sneak in pockets of time for myself whenever possible, such as slapping on a quick mask before going to bed, and carving out morning routines that give me a chance to focus on myself before the day gets busy. Having a nourishing breakfast and quiet me-time reading is so important to me. It's become my own little way of practising self-love!

Q: Thank you for sharing your breastfeeding journey, Chanel. Finally, what advice would you offer to other new moms who might be going through similar challenges?

C: I'd tell them that every mother's journey is a unique one. It's important not to compare yourself to others and to find solutions that suit your own situation. Something ideal for them but not for you. Flexibility and self-compassion are key as you navigate this wonderful yet demanding phase of motherhood.

About Tommee Tippee:
Tommee Tippee's breastfeeding range is created alongside ideas, insights and feedback from real breastfeeding mums. We know that breastfeeding requires a unique kind of love and commitment, and that's what inspires our Made for Me™ range; all designed to keep you feeling comfortable and confident enough to rise to the awesome challenge of being a mum.

About the Pump: 
Introducing the wearable breast pump that puts you in control. Anything they can do… you can do pumping. Versatile, discreet, wearable pumping designed to complement your lifestyle, no matter where you are on your feeding journey.

Experience Tommee Tippee's wearable breast pump at our studio at 134A Telok Ayer Street, or purchase Tommee Tippee's breastfeeding range at Mothercare boutiques islandwide.