I've talked about this topic before, but I am frequently reminded of the conflicts which moms feel when talking to other moms, whether they are friends, family members, co-workers, or even parenting partners. These conflicting opinions can strain relationships, make a mom doubt her instincts, and bring worry where it doesn't need to be.
Should you oppose a scheduled C-section because your OB will be out of town on your due date?
Should you do a Bradley class or a Lamaze class, or just take the on-line tutorial about childbirth?
Will your breastfeed or will you offer formula?
Will you co-sleep or will you insist your baby sleep in a crib the first night he or she is home from the hospital?
There are so many decisions that a mom must make and everyone seems to have an opinion about each of them. Your mother-in-law might have one opinion, your grandmother offers the opposite point of view, and your partner provides a third opinion. What should you do?
Be the awesome mom you are. Make your best decision with the information you have, keep your chin up, and be proud of the job you are doing. Will the choices always be the best? Probably not - because no one is perfect - but will they be the best decisions for YOU and YOUR child? Absolutely? Do you need to justify your decisions? Absolutely not. You are the best mom for your child. Do what works for your baby, your family, and for YOU by always being your best mommy.
