LIFE AS A STUDENT AND NURSING MOTHER
RASHEED TIJANI
A growing number of mothers are accepting the challenge of nursing their children while
completing their education . to do this delicate balancing act and fulfill both maternal obligations and scholastic objectives, it takes tenacity, sacrifice, and consistent support.
Even while the journey is obviously difficult,it has many advantages
for both mother and child.
Women are increasingly seeking higher education to empower themselves and pursue their
aspirations as the cry for gender equality grows louder. However, starting an educational journey
while breastfeeding creates special difficulties for mothers, especially those who have newborns.
The procedure requires time management abilities, flexibility, and the capacity to overcome challenges brought on by balancing parenthood and academic life.
The requirement for flexibility in their schedules is one of the main obstacles faced by nursing
mothers in school.
Breastfeeding necessitates frequent feedings, which can interfere with a regular class schedule.
Some educational institutions have created breastfeeding-friendly policies or lactation rooms to
address this issue and provide for nursing mothers’ requirements. These private, comfortable areas
enable moms to express milk or nurse during breaks or scheduled times, ensuring that they
can satisfy their parenting duties while continuing their academic pursuits.
The tiredness that nursing mothers may have due to sleep deprivation and other factors is another
challenge they must overcome.
Rigorous obligations to academics. Any student’s energy levels might be drained by early lessons and
late study sessions, but when breastfeeding responsibilities are added, the pressure can be
significantly greater.
However, these women can effectively traverse the difficulties if they have the right support systems
in place, such as understanding lecturers, understanding peers, and a network of family and
friends.
Despite its challenges, nursing while pursuing a degree has several advantages. Breastfeeding provides
an unmatched opportunity for mother and child to bond and can strengthen their emotional
attachment. Additionally, evidence indicates that breastfeeding has many positive health effects on both moms and infants. Essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune system support are provided by breast milk, which improves the child’s
general health.
Nursing further stimulates release oxytocin, which encourages relaxation and lowers stress level, it is
a crucial tool for anyone handling the demands of academic life.
In a brief interview with Mary Ellerman, a nursing mother who is presently enrolled in [Cardiff Metropolitan
university ], She described her experience, saying, “Nursing my child while completing my degree has been
tremendously fulfilling, even though it’s obviously tough. I’ve learned how to be resilient, manage
my time well, and value my own well-being.
The health of my child is still my primary priority, and nursing has helped me build a close
relationship with them despite my challenging academic journey”.
Schools and governments are attempting to create a more inclusive environment as a result of the
importance of assisting nursing mothers in education.
Some schools have launched efforts to raise awareness, to guarantee that nursing moms have the
help they need to succeed academically while caring for their children, support groups were created
and lactation support services were put into place.
Finally, breastfeeding a kid while going to school presents a special set of difficulties for women,
necessitating careful balancing and assistance. These courageous women can overcome challenges
and fulfil their educational objectives while giving their infants the greatest care, nevertheless, with
the correct resources, understanding from educational institutions, and a solid support network.
Women may thrive in their chosen areas while embracing the wonderful journey of parenting thanks
to the devotion and
dedication shown by these mothers, who embody the spirit of female empowerment.
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