hope for those struggling with breast feeding

[GEM33]

i have been busy slagging off my poor little girls sleeping habits on other threads recently and tonight decided to say something positive and lovely to share with you. (thanks to other mumsnetters helping me i do feel positive again).
the first 11 weeks of breast feeding were A.W.F.U.L.!! I had a massive hole in my nipple, thrush for weeks and weeks and it was soooo painful and demanding i just used to sit and cry most days and post on here to get support. while poor dh stood by doing everything he could to look after me but quietly suggesting formula feeding. it felt like all i did at night was feed the baby.
just so anyone struggling now might have some hope, it actually feels REALLY nice to breast feed now. When I go to put dd down for the night (although this takes bloody ages and sometimes doesnt work but thats another story) she laughs out loud at the sight of me lifting my top up to feed her and she gets all excited and grasps my face on the way down with delight. she really makes me smile. Its an amazing feeling to look at her now she is so big knowing my milk has kept her alive and grown her so well.
i never thought i would say any of this positive stuff and there was a point i hated it.
just for anyone struggling - it can get lots and lots better xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Great stuff, Gem, and hope you continue to enjoy it :) :)

This has really made me smile through a grit-your-teeth painful feed. Thank you!

This made me smile Gem, have read a few of your posts too so pleased things are getting better .

Well done for sticking at it. I remember 11 weeks was a magic number for me too, with feeding gaps becoming a little longer, sleeping becoming a bit easier and more importantly getting something back from dd for all the love and care you give them (smiles, grabbing things, laughing, wanting mummy etc)

I still remember the day (6 weeks and 5 days) when it didn't hurt any more. That was twenty years ago, was so glad I persevered, none of my DC's have had any tummy bugs which I know is probably unconnected but makes me feel good. They were all sleeping through the night early as well which gives the lie to people who say you should FF to get them to sleep. I don't actually care how people feed their babies, so long as they feed them, but hate it when people feel they have to change because of wrong information.
Well done Gem