Home / Life This is what breastfeeding *really* looks like Motherly mamas share their reality. By Motherly August 16, 2018 Rectangle Breastfeeding mamas are pretty powerful. But it’s not often that we see the reality of what it truly takes portrayed in the media. We don’t see the late night nursing sessions. The woman strapped to her pump at work in the women’s restroom. The stay-at-home mom nursing twins while also trying to keep her toddler entertained and happy. In celebration of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, #TeamMotherly submitted some real-life images to show their truth. And we wanted to share them here with you. (But remember: however you decide to feed your baby—formula, breastfeed, combo—you’re incredible, mama!) Nursing in the hospital for the first time Valerie Robichau An at-work pumping session Tamar (Raviv) Reiner An emotional first-time nursing session Mariana Nathal Breastfeeding on a bed Valerie Robichau On the go Jessica Martinez Late at night To twins Kristen Harms As they fall asleep Jessica Martinez Or as they’re drowsy Justine Bowser To provide comfort Valerie Robichau And joy Bronte Cummings You might also like: This is breastfeeding: Living your life in 3-hour increments I am sad to end our breastfeeding journey—but so ready, too True life: There was SO much about breastfeeding I didn’t know The latest Motherly Stories To the mama without a village: I see you Viral & Trending This viral TikTok captures what it’s like to parent through exhaustion and mental health struggles Life Can men really see the mess? Inside moms’ invisible labor at home Life 7 months pregnant on the campaign trail: How motherhood has changed the way I view politics