Former House Rules contestants Maddi and Lloyd welcomed their second baby boy in October last year, and while completely overjoyed with the new member Marlow, motherhood hasn’t been the easiest journey for the second time mum.
In a very real and honest post to her fans, the reality TV star wanted to weigh in on the debate about breastfeeding versus bottle feeding.
“I wish I never breastfed my baby,” she wrote alongside a picture of herself holding her son Marlow.
“I’m a better mum and better wife”
The post continued: “A strong statement and many would disagree but here’s why… 3 weeks post stopping breastfeeding with my 4 month old I am a completely different person. I’m a better mum and better wife. I have more energy.
“I actually have gaps where bub is NOT on my body so I get to miss him a little. I have more time for my other son. I am more affectionate towards my husband. I don’t dread going out in public. I enjoy my clothes again as I’m not leaking everywhere or having to wear uncomfortable maternity bras. I’m able to leave the house by myself without getting anxiety. I’m able to go to the gym again,” she wrote.
“I know I will cop a lot of negative comments about this post but I think its important for mums to know that they have choices. There are so many different ways to be a mum. But what many mums forget is that MUM HAS TO BE HAPPY TOO,” she concluded.
Mums flooded the post to praise her for her honesty
The post has been liked close to 2,500 times and there have been over 200 comments, many of them praising Maddi for her honesty.
“Well said! Mums must do what’s best for themselves and their baby! Breast or bottle, Mum needs to be operating at her best for her whole family. Thank you for sharing this,” wrote one follower.
Another added: “Go Mumma! I felt exactly the same, so with the arrival of my second bubba I said to hell with the guilt and I bottle fed from 3 weeks old…best decision we ever made as a family!”
“Happy mum happy bub… no point in stressing you self out and feeling terrible. Fed is best!” another wrote.
“Right there with you. I felt like I was a bad Mum for giving up on trying to breastfeed but my baby and myself were much better off that way. Our babies can’t survive if we don’t!” added another mum.
Being a mum isn’t always easy
Maddi and Lloyd have been sharing plenty of candid and honest family moments on Instagram, also including their older son Carter, who is nearly two. Yes, their hands are full.
Being a mum is always going to have its ups and downs and we’re with Maddi - if mum is happy it’s going to make family life so much easier for everyone! And of course, fed is always best.
Well done to Maddi for being so honest and open with her post which has clearly started a positive conversation about feeding bubs.