“What does EBF mean?” “Is my baby EBF still?” “How many people are EBF?” We see these comments and questions all the time. Daily. EBF – exclusive breast fed. What does it mean? Why does it matter?
EBF or exclusive breast fed has a different meaning to different people. To most it means breastmilk only, no formula, to others it means breastmilk only no formula or solids, and to a few it means breastmilk only from the breast, no bottles. You can see why there is such confusion and debate over the term! But does this really matter?
In the short answer – no. Breastfeeding is NOT a competition. Let me say that again, there is no prize for “breastfeeding the best”. Does it matter if your baby gets formula once or twice a week while your best friend proudly talks about her baby being exclusively breastfed? No. Because you are doing the best for your baby and your family and that is what matters at the end of the day. Everyone’s breastfeeding journey looks different. Some moms only nurse and never do bottles, many moms (especially those that work) do breastmilk in bottles, many moms supplement (with either formula or breastmilk) and all of these are great. The end goal is a happy, healthy, thriving baby.
Let me state: there is nothing wrong with being proud of having an exclusive breastfed baby! There is also nothing wrong with supplementing with formula sometimes or having your baby take bottles of breastmilk while you are at work. Your breastfeeding journey is personal and specific to you and your baby. No matter what your breastfeeding journey looks like, you are doing an awesome job. YES YOU! You are awesome!
Take a moment today to sit back and remind yourself YOU ARE AWESOME! YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB! Give yourself a pat on the back and a high five! Breastfeeding and being a mother is hard work! Don’t focus on the terms that people use, focus on you and your baby. You are doing this, and you are doing awesome!
