I’m Dr Maeve O’Connell – a midwife, lecturer, and first-time mum at 42. For years, I’ve taught student midwives about breastfeeding: the hormones, the importance of a good latch, the benefits. But living it myself has been the real education.
My baby, Evan, is now seven months old, and time is flying by faster than I ever imagined. Each day brings something new — a new sound, a new expression, and lately, a lot of grabbing and pinching while feeding! It makes me laugh because it’s his little way of connecting — a reminder that breastfeeding is so much more than milk. It’s comfort, play, and communication all rolled into one.
As a midwifery lecturer, I’ve always told my students that breastfeeding is a relationship, not just a skill. Now I know that first-hand. It’s messy and magical, exhausting and empowering all at once. In those quiet feeding moments — or not-so-quiet, when he’s wriggling and exploring my face — I feel deeply grateful.
As a midwifery lecturer, I’ve always told my students that breastfeeding is a relationship, not just a skill. Now I know that first-hand.
Returning to Work and Breastfeeding
Returning to work has added a new rhythm: teaching about breastfeeding while living it myself. I sometimes finish a lecture on breastfeeding, then rush to express milk before my next class. It’s a balancing act, but it makes me appreciate even more all the women who do this every day.
I sometimes finish a lecture on breastfeeding, then rush to express milk before my next class.
Breastfeeding at this stage feels more and more about connection. It’s become our time — even when tiny fingers are pulling at my necklace or my hair! I know these moments won’t last forever, so I’m soaking up every feed, every cuddle, every sleepy sigh.
For all the mothers out there, whether you’re starting out or months in — be gentle with yourself. It’s a journey that’s constantly changing, and that’s the beauty of it. Seven months in, I’m still learning, still teaching, and enjoying every single moment.
Here’s to the late-night feeds, the morning cuddles, and the tiny hands that remind me how fast it’s all flying by.
