THE BABY’S BOTTLE

I went down a shame spiral when I had to turn to the bottle because of low milk production. Even though it made life easier in so many practical ways, I couldn’t shake the fear that I was somehow falling short—especially around the narrative of antibodies, immunity, and “doing what’s best.” I worried that by not exclusively breastfeeding, I was compromising my son’s health.

Later, I learned something that softened everything: my mother went through the exact same thing.
Same low milk production. Same decision. Same worry. And somehow, that lineage of experience felt like permission—to let go of the blame and trust the bigger picture.

And here’s the part that still amazes me:
My son has the strongest immunity. He rarely gets sick. His body is resilient, vibrant, and strong.

It was a powerful reminder that immunity isn’t built from one single factor. It’s shaped by love, genetics, nervous system regulation, environment, nourishment in many forms, and the emotional safety of a supported mother. Stress and shame don’t strengthen babies—peace does.

Bottle feeding didn’t weaken our bond or his body. If anything, it supported our family as a whole. It allowed others to help. It gave me rest. It brought calm back into our home. And that calm? That matters more than we’re ever taught to believe.

If you’re reading this and recognize yourself in it—please hear this clearly:
Your worth as a mother is not measured in ounces.
Your love is not diluted by a bottle.
And your child’s health is not fragile because you made the choice that worked for you.

Sometimes the most immune-boosting thing a baby can receive… is a mother who releases the shame and trusts herself again. 🤍