Breastfeeding Wasn’t Easy—But Donating My Milk Made It Worth It

From Breastfeeding to Bottle Feeding: My Journey and How It Inspired Me to Give Back

The Truth About Breastfeeding: It’s Not Always Easy

There’s a common misconception that breastfeeding just comes naturally, but for many moms—myself included—the learning curve is steep. I took classes, read countless books, and still felt completely unprepared when it came time to feed my first baby.

Those first few days were filled with uncertainty, frustration, and tears. Thankfully, I had my mom—a seasoned mother of five—by my side. With her support and some patience, my baby and I finally found our rhythm, and breastfeeding became a beautiful journey that lasted 10 full months.

If you’re currently in those early stages, visit our Feeding Support Resources for encouragement and expert-backed tips on establishing your feeding routine.

When Babies Refuse the Bottle

My experience with #2 also had its ups and downs. Even though our breastfeeding experience was rewarding, the transition to bottle feeding brought a new challenge: bottle refusal. Many parents face this exact issue when a baby won’t take a bottle after being exclusively breastfed. It’s one of the most stressful parts of trying to recover post-partum, returning to work, or sharing feeding duties. 

That frustration later became the inspiration behind Bottimals -- a mom-scented lovey designed to comfort babies during feeding and help them connect with the familiar scent of mom, even when she can’t be there.

Learn more about how Bottimals works on our Science Behind the Scent page and discover why scent familiarity is so powerful in helping babies accept the bottle.

The Power of Breastmilk

Through my journey, I discovered just how powerful breastmilk truly is—not just for my baby, but for others as well. That realization led me to become a registered breastmilk donor.

Did you know that premature and critically ill infants often rely on donated breastmilk for nourishment when their own mothers are unable to provide it? Human milk banks collect and distribute this life-saving milk to NICUs and families in need around the world.

To learn more about the science behind breastmilk and its benefits, visit our Blog for articles on pumping must-haves, bonding, and bottle feeding transitions.

How to Become a Breastmilk Donor

In the U.S., becoming a donor is simpler than you might think. After a brief screening process—which includes paperwork and a free blood test—you can be approved to donate.

Most milk banks will even send pre-paid insulated shipping containers, so you can easily send your frozen milk from home. Your contribution can help save the lives of babies who need extra nutritional support.

If you’re interested in becoming a donor, check with your local milk bank or visit the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) to find a donation center near you.

 

For Moms Facing Bottle Refusal

If your baby won’t take a bottle, know that you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. Transitioning from breast to bottle takes time, scent familiarity, and the right tools.

Our Bottle Refusal FAQ page answers common questions like:

• Why does my baby refuse the bottle?
• How can I make bottle feeding feel more natural?
• What products help ease the transition?

You can also read real parent stories on our Customer Testimonials page to see how Bottimals has helped other families find peace and success in their feeding journey.