Breastfeeding in the Marketplace

By Chukwudumebi Mary Orumgbe

Do you wish you could empower mothers not to worry about what others think? Do you want to give them confidence to feed their babies while chatting? That's where I'm coming from with this book. I want to transform shame into pride.

when l feed my son, I feel so fulfilled, happy and bonded to him. But early on in my motherhood journey, it wasn't' so easy.

whether you breastfeed or not you are no more or less of a mother- we are all in this together. Breastfeeding is a sensitive topic. lt's not good to look down on other people when you don't know where they are on their journey. if someone opens up to you, show them empathy. Be supportive and feel that universal pride as a mother!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Woodbridge Publishers
• Release date: Mar 14, 2024

Book preview

Dedication

I dedicate this book to God Almighty, the giver of knowledge. To my delectable daughter Omanibe and my amazing son Golden. I was inspired to write this book because of them. Also, to all mothers and fathers out there. Together we are the voice of breastfeeding to give every individual child the best start in life.

Breastfeeding in the Marketplace

CHUKWUDUMEBI MARY ORUMGBE

Copyright © 2023 Chukwudumebi Mary Orumgbe Published: April 2023

ISBN: 978-1-916849-17-4 (Paperback)

ISBN: 978-1-916849-18-1 (Hard cover)

All rights reserved.

The right of Chukwudumebi Mary Orumgbe to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by her in accordance with sections 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system, copied in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise transmitted without written permission from the author and publisher. You must not circulate this book in any format.

Published By:

Table of Contents

Dedication

Introduction

Chapter One: Why I Wrote This Book

Chapter Two: About Me

Chapter Three:  Breastfeeding Challenges

Chapter Four: How Your Partner Can Support You

Chapter Five:  Your Right to Breastfeed

Chapter Six:  Weaning Tips

Chapter Seven: Real  Life Case Studies

Chapter Eight:  Reward Yourself

Chapter Nine:  My Dream

FAQS

Resources

It is not about you watching me, your expression or look.

It is about my child having a feed at the point of need

Introduction

A UNICEF report recently ranked countries by breastfeeding rates. It showed that in high income countries, one in five babies is never breastfed. Among the high- income countries, Ireland, France, and the United States had the lowest breastfeeding rates. The UK has one of the lowest rates of breastfeeding in the world, with just 34 percent of babies receiving breast milk at six months of age, compared to 62 percent in Sweden. - www.unicef.org.uk.

Sunlight streamed through the church windows as an energetic little girl ran around before me. I put a loving hand on my bump and felt my heart swell with the excitement of meeting my own daughter. I’d noticed the girl at her mother’s breast earlier, and it struck me how natural they looked. My shyness meant that I couldn’t imagine getting my breasts out in public. I had decided I would give my baby formula in public and try breastfeeding at home.

The little girl’s mother noticed me admiring her daughter. She approached me and lovingly asked, ‘Are you ready to make sacrifices for your child?’

‘I have reservations about breastfeeding exclusively,’ I admitted. Secretly, I thought breastfeeding would be too stressful. Besides, I wouldn’t be able to breastfeed in public due to my shyness anyway, so why try?

‘Feel proud; it’s no one else’s business,’ she said.

It dawned on me at that moment that I had to sacrifice my shyness and breastfeed. The lady told me her name was Oluyinka Ozegbe, and I now fondly call her my breastfeeding consultant!

What Are the Benefits of Breast Milk for your Baby?

Helps keep your baby healthy by supplying all the necessary nutrients.

Protects against allergies, sickness, and obesity.

Protects against diseases like diabetes and cancer.

Protects against infections, such as ear infections.

Easily digested – no constipation or diarrhoea.

Moreover, breastfed babies have healthier weights as they grow and score higher on IQ tests (www.nhs.uk).

My milk didn’t come through for two days after my c- section, so Omanibe drank SMA formula. The midwives helped me use a hospital breast pump to pull the milk out of my body! When it did come, I felt like I couldn’t give her enough, so I’d top up with formula. She would finish 60 ml quickly and cry for more! When I got home two weeks later, a nurse called me, and