Breastfeeding, our big fight & the highs and lows of parenthood | Ep. 31

It's an adjustment for anybody to have a newborn baby appear in your life, even if it's your second born. In this episode, we discuss our initial challenges with breastfeeding Auggie and how that led to one of the biggest arguments in our marriage.
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[@hannaholiver4470]

Am I married? No. Am I pregnant? Nope. Do I have kids? Nah. Did I watch this entire episode and the last one? Absolutely. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. ❤️

[@Allieie3314]

MEEEEEE!!!! Am I single? Yes. Do I cry when she talks about things about motherhood? Also yes. 😂😂

[@MicheleWalkerWebb]

Also me. I did have a baby girl, she's grown and gone. I bottle fed her from the get go. She also stayed in the nursery. (I have epilepsy so breast feeding was out of the question. Since stress brings on seizures I felt she'd be better off in the nursery)

[@miac2382]

​@@MicheleWalkerWebb I have a friend that had a baby and her mother told me that when she told her it's so healthy and b milk is the best and better if you can produce milk and she asked her why she didn't want to b feed and she told her she didn't care and just didn't want to. She also said that multiple times when she went to her house she had the baby shut in the closet and my friend's mother got the baby out of the closet. I was like wow

[@MicheleWalkerWebb]

@@miac2382 I would have breast fed my daughter, but I had epilepsy. Seizures. I take two different medications that would have come through the milk. Drugged her. I choose to have my daughter in the nursery because my vaginal birth with no epidural knocked me out. She was in the nursery for one evening and one day. I was able to get sleep and get stronger. I'm sorry about your friend & her child in the closet. I hope you know that wasn't my problem. I just chose another route in my childbirth.

[@SturnioloSwag]

Same

[@amylynn2351]

Abby you should validate yourself more. You’re an intelligent 24 year old mother of two. Be strong just the way you are. It’s magnificent 💞

[@marieneu264]

She’s such a doll. A lot of KZbinrs and family bloggers drive me nuts, but she genuinely seems so sweet and normal.

[@Madison-sn4ih]

Yes because most family vloggers are egotistical and just care about doing things for content (which is Matt in this case). Abby is much more likeable and doesn’t even enjoy content creation, which makes complete sense. She gets it.

[@Madi_Lane]

The irrational fears Abby is describing seems like postpartum anxiety which is very common and worth looking into! I’m glad she’s voicing her thoughts on this!

[@HannahCohen]

To Matt: I’m saying this purely to help educate you Matt, that breastmilk is so much more than just a food. It also helps mom’s uterus to shrink back down too. It helps mom and baby to bond with oxytocin as well. So if Abby wants to breastfeed only, it’s okay to support her in that without pushing formula 💛 I do want to say (as a mom of a 4yr old and 1.5yr old). Having trouble latching and feeding at first is SO normal! It took me 2 weeks with my 2nd born before we got the hang of things, and while formula can be helpful in some situations, I’m grateful that I didn’t reach for it because it can actually hurt mom’s milk supply to supplement formula. I’m happy to say I’ve breastfed my oldest until she was 2.5yrs old and I’m still breastfeeding my 18month old and it has been amazing. When she was teething, hurt, sad, having a tantrum, breastfeeding was a comfort to her (it can actually provide pain relief for babies! And even provide melatonin at night to help them sleep) (Genuinely just saying this to give a new perspective, no hate at all!)

[@truthtalker4038]

I think he figured that out.. didn't you listen to the podcast? He wasn't "pushing" formula.. he was concerned about his baby, and both parents are going to feel differently, and both parent's feelings are valid. He gets it now how important it was to Abby to breastfeed for her emotions as well. I don't think you needed to come along and reiterate what he just figured out in the podcast.

[@kylanball6270]

Matt was putting feeding their crying hungry baby over Abby’s feelings. And sadly my husband did the same while I was in the hospital & he ultimately help me feel less sad about having to supplement those fist few days. A fed baby is a happy baby. To hear him cry like that over food that I couldn’t give him then not give him food was just heartbreaking. It’s okay to supplement those first few days

[@monicageller226]

Thank you for sharing this information. I remember asking my daughter’s pediatrician to administer vaccinations or drawing her blood while I nursed her to aid with pain. It worked wonder for us.

[@erikoff6122]

@@truthtalker4038 I think you are being harsh to a person who is giving good and helpful info about breastfeed to Matt. He didn't talk or got in the podcast about any of the specifics @hannahcohen wrote and probably she did watched/listened what they said and thats why she gave that advice in a really nice way. I actually was searching for someone to say something more to Matt because the feeling is that he didn't fully got it.

[@sarahnoelhutchinson6154]

Yes! Im glad you said this. I am not a mom but I am studying SLP and I know that it’s difficult for latching to be learned once bottle fed. Babies get used to the ease of bottle feeding and refuse the breast. I know it’s hard to go against instinct and to hear the baby cry, but babies can go quite a while between feeding and be fine. Thought I’d just add onto your perspective for education purposes! 😊

[@triforcetriumph7192]

Pregnancy and child birth are insanely up and down and social media always makes it look so much easier than it is. Thank you for always being so honest and raw about everything, I love listening to your podcast for that reason alone! 💜

[@alexis_253]

Social media really does make it look that way! Both pregnancy and childbirth (and postpartum) were BRUTAL!

[@Essouza81]

It's not social media, it's just people. People aren't honest with what really happens. That's usually because other people like to judge too much. People are the issue.

[@Essouza81]

Fed is best. It doesn't matter how the baby is fed. ❤

[@triforcetriumph7192]

@@Essouza81 amen to that! 🙏🏻

[@UnplannedPodcast]

Absolutely agree with this! Thank you for watching the podcast!!

[@hoseoksspaghetti3033]

I have loved every episode of this podcast... but this one I could barely get through. To Matt: Let your wife speak and please stop putting your biases and inexperienced thoughts into her mouth. I'm sorry but you are not the one pregnant. It irked me when you were trying to convince Abby that C-section is easier the vaginal. It's not just about pain, and you didn't do either! That goes for the breastfeeding in public as well: You are not the one doing it! To Abby: please don't be afraid to really voice your opinions on certain topics. When you said that you knew you were a good mom, I smiled because I love that you have the confidence to say that! Again I have really loved every single episode, but I think we need more thoughts from Abby's own experiences and less of Matt's assumptions. Can't wait for the next episode!

[@elli3693]

Abby, every mom IS YOU or has been. I can relate so much. The crying, the needing your mom, the desire to breastfeed but acknowledging formula is totally fine. Husbands not getting it. You will get through this. Postpartum is so hard. Praying for y’all.

[@hey.a5162]

I agree!! Listening to this I remember feeling the exact same way. Postpartum hormones are NO JOKE!!😫 Sometimes I didn’t even know why I felt the way I did, and I would get even more mad that my husband didn’t just get it. It seems to me like it should be common sense but they’ll never be able to feel externally and internally all the emotions and pain we go through, and I was too tired to explain to him.

[@wags2284]

Yes!!!!!! So many viewers of this channel are (no offense Matt) up Matt’s ass, but everything Abby is going through is so relatable! I love them both and their marriage but damn I relate to abby so much

[@IsabellaL9659]

@@hey.a5162 It is also important to remember that just because a husband won’t be able to feel externally or internally the pain or emotions does not mean they can’t be supportive and understanding, that’s what empathy is. Of course they don’t know the feeling directly but that’s when you try to put your self in others shoes, and it really is common sense to know that after a women has a baby she is going though something physical and emotional and needs a lot of support. It does not make much sense when the argument that “he will never understand” is used. How will that change the amount of effort or support he gives, it’s not like you are just going to not try cuz “you don’t understand, if anything it is essential to try even harder. There are so many situations in life where someone has not gone though something but they are still fully capable of understanding that this person is going through it. Not having gone through something does not excuse or make it not possible for someone to be understanding and supportive. It seems like the idea of “they will never be able to understand so they can’t be very supportive” and just cracking it up to that is what causes these marital problems in the first place. After having a baby a women needs so much support and going at it alone or without your partner because they “don’t understand” is the worst you can do. A couple getting support from family and friends is amazing but a husband being the main support to his wife is essential. In marriage even when you don’t understand something directly you still need to be all in and try even harder.

[@Cog93]

If you look at breast milk under a microscope you will see that it's actually living. Breast milk can adapt to your baby and their needs. There are also so many health benefits for the mother. So I understand where baby is coming from. Like I told my husband, just make sure im getting enough sleep, water, healthy food, and sunshine. Then the rest will follow.

[@bellehardin6503]

Is it just me or do you love when Abby cries because you just relate so much?! I’ve not had children yet but talking about things like my husband or just anything or anyone I love makes me so emotional. So I completely relate to always crying!

[@Klaramae22]

Yes!! I am the exact same way with people I love so whenever Abby starts crying I think it's so sweet

[@adwitasrinivasan7485]

You guys love when Abby cries?

[@bethsapelli1971]

Abby crying makes so much sense to me. I'm a very emotional person in general, so I can relate. But tears are so much more than just an emotional response. Abby crying in that moment with all the swirling chaos of her postpartum hormones makes sense purely from a physical standpoint, let alone the frustrations she & Matt are having in this time of adjustment. Going from parenting 1 child to having 2 is tough! As my pastor told me after our 2nd child arrived, parenting 2 children isn't twice as hard; it's astronomically harder! Let's those tears flow, momma!

[@promisedjubileedaniels]

Omgosh, "Matt, I need you to leave, then come right back in in one minute and totally agree with me." THIS IS IT. I've been married to my husband like almost 20 years, and we literally ARE talking to one another like this 🤣🥰

[@BriannaNorum]

I just gotta say how GLAD I am that y’all have decided to stop showing your children on SM. I love that y’all are protecting them in this way. There’s way too many creeps out there to risk something happening to your children. I hope other influencers that know you guys and are close to you will be inspired and encouraged to do the same. I love tuning into y’all’s podcast and I hope and pray you continue in the direction of protecting your children and not sharing them online! It would be hard for me to continue to support you guys if you didn’t. I used to enjoy watching a few family vloggers but have had a huge change of mind recently and I just can’t get behind it anymore. Children deserve to be protected! And I’m really thankful y’all are doing that for your kids🤍 Just wanted to share encouragement to y’all and encourage you to stay on this path! God bless you guys🕊️

[@hannahrodriguez7917]

Yes! It makes me SO happy when I see vlogs where the kids are shown but very shortly and no faces! Makes me so proud of what amazing parents they are and always have been ❤

[@ashleycash6950]

Show possibility: bring your brother and sister in law on to talk about their labor and baby experiences.

[@jennydavis5890]

I joined a La Leche League to get support during my breastfeeding journey. One of the moms who had been in the Air Force stated that learning to breastfeed was harder than boot camp!! You are not crazy Abby. Breastfeeding is tough!! You are an awesome momma! Try looking up a local La Leche League in your area, it is so wonderful to be around other momma's on the same path you are.

[@marylockett8724]

Thank you Abby for advocating for us women who had a traumatic c section by simply clarifying his statement “if it’s scheduled” because I had an emergency c section after over 48 hours of labor and it was wildly different than your experience.

[@hopevitale8050]

My baby also wouldn’t latch immediately and it took her two days. I immediately felt like a failure, panicked that breastfeeding wouldn’t work for us, less connected to my baby, and scared she’d starve. BUT the hospital staff was amazing and saved me from spiraling with those thoughts. They assured me that this is SO normal because babies are tired and overwhelmed from birth and often just don’t want to/ understand how to latch. Babies come out of the womb full of meconium and fluid so their bellies are full. They simply aren’t even hungry that soon. Lo and behold a few days go by and like I was told, my baby got hungrier and was able to latch. I didn’t need to supplement with formula before that because I knew, and the hospital staff assured me, that my colostrum was enough for my baby’s small cherry sized tummy. Because she wouldn’t latch I hand expressed into a spoon and poured it into her mouth that way. All this is to say that hospital staff need to educate new moms, not latching right away is normal, and hand expression of colostrum is enough for baby in those first few days! I so badly wish all moms got the education from the hospital staff that I got but I know that isn’t the case. I hope sharing my experience can be a help to someone.

[@allihernandez3788]

Yes! Babies tummies are so tiny at first and they grow within the first few days! I also hand expressed since my baby couldn’t latch at first. I hand expressed into a little medicine cup and few them with a syringe. It only lasted a few days until she could latch!

[@gwh2100]

Yes!! My mother-baby nurse helped teach me how to hand express colostrum and we spoon fed it to our first baby while we were in the hospital. I felt everything you described in this!

[@laurenhass3489]

I’ve never related to another conversation more. I had a c-section with my first, then struggled to figure out how to breastfeed, while my husband kept saying “just give him a bottle”. He didn’t understand why, but every time I made a bottle for my son in those first few weeks while we were figuring it out, I felt like a failure as a mom. Now I’m happy to report my baby is almost 1 and has had a successful year breastfeeding!

[@Chloe-gm3tq]

My youngest wouldn't latch straight away and I sat in my hospital bed SOBBING watching my husband and nurse feed my baby formula with a cup, I remember the emotions I felt so betrayed, useless and heartbroken. I've been the same with both postpartum journeys my emotions are heightened for the first 2 years. Thank you for being so honest abby!

[@amandaprice87]

Matt tell Abby that she just had a baby- it’s okay to cry. We know she doesn’t want to cry on a lot of these episodes but we give here grace too. Her hormones are still not leveled out and she’s talking about things that are emotional.

[@dibsdibs3495]

My mom always said that my siblings and I all took 3-5 days so she always just formula fed until then

[@vickycorey8195]

I'm glad to hear mom's are breastfeeding longer than a year. When I had my three the Dr's wanted them to be weaned and on a cup by a year old. What I thought was they were nuts. Bottle fed babies are on the bottle longer so what's the difference? If I could go back and do that over I would but the are in their 30s. Lol

[@klarissa7407]

LOOOOOVVEEED this episode! I'm currently pregnant and have a three-year-old and also experience those irrational thoughts about both of my children. Nobody talks about the mental challenge it is to be a mom. Thank you guys for being so real and talking about these topics while you're going through them. There's a lot of us out here also trying to figure out this parenting thing.

[@UnplannedPodcast]

So glad to hear this!!

[@alexisb7614]

I think that you are walking a fine line here with sharing. These conversations seem to not be fully discussed until on the podcast and new information shakes one of you. This is great processing and communication work in therapy but not necessarily on a podcast for thousands to listen to. It’s just hard to watch you both emotionally process and respond in a performance environment.

[@69marrr]

Well said

[@sgough83]

This! Like therapy is a good thing

[@davina27629]

I think that's what makes them such a strong couple. Abby is an emotional person and the conversations wouldn't be the same if they were preworked. I think it's very brave of them to share these parts of their lives with people who may or may not understand and that's very vulnerable of them. I do agree therapy isn't a bad idea but I don't PERSONALLY feel like they would have continued with and posted the video if they were uncomfortable or didn't want to share. I do think Matt gets excited sometimes and goes a little over and abby is just trying to be respectful. I think they're wonderful parents and are probably helping SOOOO many people. But I do respect your opinion and I get what you're saying but it seems to work for them... for now at least.

[@tiaslays255]

I don’t think it is a bad thing. They can choose to post it or not.

[@rando9820]

yeppppp

[@maryncoi8763]

Matt’s trying to play it off as “omg what a dumb miscommunication, we were just sleep deprived” while Abby is trying to convey how meaningful this is to her

[@irisdanagher]

Women are emotional, men are logical is all.

[@eden2hot]

⁠@@irisdanagherthis is so sexist, in both directions. men and women are both emotional and logical, it doesnt depend on ur gender - it depends on u as a person.

[@audrey9140]

While I don't believe it is with malice, Matt is sometimes tone-deaf to how insensitive he sounds. He also has seemingly no idea how graciously abby either goes with it or gently redirects. He is trying hard but he isn't listening fully if he's not able to commit to memory some facts about breastfeeding/birth. Especially in such a public sphere, it's a little weird. We know he loves Abby and he's a wonderful dad, I'm not saying this to take away from that!

[@AngelB33]

​@@irisdanagherMen are literally are just as emotional as women and women are just as logical as men. You don't even need to do research to know this.

[@Dreamichelli]

@@irisdanagherit’s pretty emotional to ignore your post partum post op wife for two days if you ask me

[@wendyf1165]

When I had my first baby, she was screaming crying the day we brought her home. My husband and parents were vehement that I give her a bottle and I was 100% against it. Ultimately they insisted and my husband gave her a bottle of formula while I pumped (almost nothing came out). My daughter immediately guzzled the bottle and fell asleep and I felt so terrible like I had starved her. But ultimately she became an avid nurser and we figured it out with a lot of perseverance. Keep hanging in there Abby. You’re doing great.

[@lily6413]

Can we appreciate the level of vulnerability displayed in this episode. So beautiful! When Abby said being a mom changes you, I felt that. She is absolutely correct. We can NEVER stop thinking about our babies. NEVER. It is literally impossible. Motherhood sits Abby so well. Precious momma. And Dad is killing it making sure everybody is healthy and safe. Matt is such a rockstar! Both of y’all are just an amazing couple and parents.

[@UnplannedPodcast]

This is such a sweet message! Thank you so much!!

[@gwh2100]

I’ll vouch for Matt for a second - men will NEVER know what it’s like to give birth or be a postpartum parent. I know my own husband struggled with understanding my feelings in the weeks after the birth of our first, not because he didn’t love me or want to understand, but simply because he cannot comprehend my pain or emotions as a new mom. That’s not his fault, and you can see Matt is trying his best to be the most helpful and supportive dad and husband he can be. Everyone needs to chill out!!!

[@danileeplus3952]

I agree!!

[@hannahrodriguez7917]

It is so interesting to see his perspective; it’s exactly like my husband’s. Doesn’t mean I don’t chuckle to myself sometimes at just the ignorance that isn’t his fault and he’ll never understand. But yeah, we have to give guys grace bc they simply can’t help that they will never carry and birth a baby.

[@naylisyazwina6836]

Yeah exactly. Matt is uneducated. He should learn how it works obviously. I always see cats and dogs and all other animals immediately nursing after giving birth. I thought it was the same for humans even though I'm a woman but clearly it's not. Matt probably thought the same. I only knew after watching this@@hannahrodriguez7917

[@user-im2ym4ru2e]

Ok so I get that us women go through a lot during pregnancy and childbirth and everything after, however so do men. It isn't the same, but while they can't relate to us, we can't relate to them and their feelings as well. It is their baby too and they are sitting ducks. They want to help, but can't and they see their wife struggling and the baby hungry so bringing up formula is a natural response. We need to communicate better. Men aren't mind readers. Instead of trying to get him to figure out what you want or need just tell him. This is coming from someone who suffered two awful pregnancies one ending in an emergency c section at 32 weeks with a week long hospital stay for me and a 2 month NICU stay for baby. We were tested in more ways than one, but my husband would ask me what I needed and I'd tell him. Side note: at the delivery he couldn't be in the room and I was put under general anesthesia. One of my friends husband came to sit with my hubby. He later said it was to offer him some male support because everyone else was there for me and the baby and he knew Brad needed support too. He was sitting there helpless while I was getting cut open not knowing how everything would end. I often say I had it easier in those moments because I was out cold with no idea what was happening. He was the one living with all the drama.

[@AprilLee1996]

Thank you for acknowledging the struggle of motherhood for teachers. I'm newly pregnant so I will be on maternity leave for the last 6 weeks of the school year. I have decided not to return in the fall because the idea of leaving my baby for someone else to raise while I'm spending everyday with other peoples' kids is heart wrenching and I can't do it. Luckily my husband and I have the means to make this work, but most teachers cannot afford to.

[@jennj]

With breastfeeding, the beginning stages are the MOST important part of the journey. Once you have established that, at least in the first few weeks, you’re typically going to last a lot longer. The colostrum is also the most vital as it holds the most nutrients. Giving formula when you should be latching is telling your body not to make it, so that’s why it’s so important to latch, latch, latch. Your mind is already wanting to give up, and when someone is not understanding the logic of breastfeeding, it becomes frustrating for several reasons. It also makes you think about how easy it could be to give up. Breastfeeding was the hardest, yet most favorite part of the postpartum journey. As I sit here and pump at work for my 10 month old.

[@mbwilson8592]

110%.

[@bethsapelli1971]

I laughed at that last sentence, Jenn. I can so relate! I had to shorten my lunch to 20 minutes to give myself 5 extra minutes on breaks to MANUALLY pump my milk - exhausting! And right after I stopped working around our daughter's 1st birthday & was happy to be home & longer need to pump, she decided to stop nursing! 🙄🤷‍♀️

[@jennj]

@@bethsapelli1971 hahahahah! I was not expecting the ending 😂😂 that totally sounds about right. Ugh! Manual?? Pumped 3x in 9 hours. It was a JOB!!

[@Madison-sn4ih]

The reason Abby cries every episode is because Matt seems to intentionally ask her questions he knows will get her riled up for the sake of getting content :(

[@Stargazer95485]

You are correct. It's very intentional and he does it for two reasons; for algorithm engagement because vulnerable, crying Abby always gets the comments (good and bad) and it's part of his ongoing attempt to make himself look better than her. If you notice, when he asks a question that he thinks a caring husband would ask, he puts on a fake, concerned-looking face when she answers. When she's getting close to tears or is crying, he often has a smirk on his face. The podcast is becoming an uncomfortable visible record of a narcissist husband manipulating his wife.

[@Madison-sn4ih]

@@Stargazer95485yep exactly. Idk if he’s a true narc, but he’s definitely “me me me” and you can see Abby is slowly drowning. She’s constantly making comments about resenting him, being annoyed by him, etc. And has said time and time again content creation doesn’t make her super happy. I feel like most of these conversations belong in a therapy office, not a podcast.

[@ren.sparks]

yep

[@ashleycranston6929]

I honestly think Matt is one of the most caring husbands who seeks to understand his wife with all that he can. I don’t normally comment or reply, but these comments are completely unkind and misunderstanding of this couple. They are beautiful and love each other so much. He is the opposite of a narcissist and is one of the best husbands to his wife. Abby is still emotional because of the hormone imbalance and simply because being a mom has its challenges (speaking esp being 3 weeks post partum myself). He is trying to understand it all and support her in the best way he can.

[@Madison-sn4ih]

@@ashleycranston6929 if you can’t see he does it all for validation on camera, that’s where the misunderstanding is. I used to really like them, but his need for praise for doing the bare minimum is too much.

[@dianefort3984]

Miss Abby, I am 65 years old. My mother was 86. She passed away this last February. I needed her every day of my life and I will always need her. I miss her so very much. You will always need your mother for whatever reason.❤

[@wh4193]

I'm so sorry, I hope you're doing well 💜❤️‍🩹

[@valeriet1338]

Matt comes off very tone deaf. Having to "work" on vaca by editing/upload some YT videos and staying up until 2am to "work on a music video", lol this person hasn't truly worked a day in his life. Talk about cushy, and yet is still entitled by claiming how hard and demanding it is. At least Abby acknowledges the freedom and flexibility this work life gives to their family, while also doing one of the hardest jobs in the world, BEING A MOM. Also.... let Abby speak, you interrupt her so much that would drive anyone insane. Lastly, LOL Matt picking whether a C-section or V birth is more difficult, he should have been COMPLETELY quiet during that question. Unreal, I am super impressed with Abby's grace and patience when it comes to these instances. I usually try to cut people slack and not comment like this, but there were way too many eye-roll, jaw dropping moments that he could use being brought to his attention.

[@lucidlemonarts7597]

I don’t have anything to say or add other then that I completely agree.

[@neen2660]

He’s just very childish in comparison.

[@edzienis]

What kind of weirdo says they think breastfeeding is hot. It’s not meant to sexual. Wtf you’re feeding a child ?!

[@melissap7420]

I wanted so desperately to breast feed my twins, but they were too little and didn’t know how. I started pumping, but I had lost so much blood and was so exhausted that I couldn’t keep up with it. I had one nurse put me down and made me feel so bad about not giving them breast milk. I had horrible postpartum depression and anxiety. I didn’t know how to ask for the help I needed. I am so thankful a lot this generation is starting to break the silence and stigma on topics like this. It is so hard to adjust, take care of an infant (infants), and take care of yourself!

[@honeybadger2986]

@@saladfingers.EW. He is not a man child. You know these two humans are sweet people and calling him names HURTS ABBY too. They’re more mature and communicate better than most young people these days. They’re talking and he’s trying to understand. Stop being so damn mean to him and by default - Abby. This couple shares hard things to try and help others and here you are running your mouth. Jesus - be nice. Seriously. This couple is way to rare and precious and special for you to speak about them like this. Be nice or go away!

[@honeybadger2986]

*big hugs* You did your best. Don’t beat yourself up the things that didn’t go your way. ❤️🙏

[@melissap7420]

@@honeybadger2986 Thank you! I wish I could delete the trolls comment 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@morganschumacher296]

Not me literally sobbing with Abby at the end. I sing “you are my sunshine” to my son every night and I dream of that moment when my son get married. You guys are amazing and such amazing parents! Love you guys!

[@sourflower3727]

Honestly, Matt just needs to grow up. This whole birth experience isn't about him.. your wife needs to heal and bond with her baby.. and breastfeeding in the first few days is SO important!! If she would have listened to him, she could have lost her entire breastfeeding journey. Babies want what's easy and getting a newborn from bottle back to breast can be so much more difficult! And him clearly throwing hissy fits while she's still in the hospital.. seriously dude? Get over yourself. You can tell by the way Abby talks about it that she felt completely defeated and hopeless in those moments of their big fight and he's trying to play the victim of it. Birth is messy.. it comes with a lot of difficulty, but you're supposed to step up and be there for her and support her and you failed miserably.

[@ren.sparks]

it’s also strange because this isn’t their first child… you would think he would’ve learned what his wife wants and needs from him

[@loveli8491]

I don’t agree. Yes she gave birth to a baby and she wanted to breastfeed but getting angry at him for suggesting formula after their baby was not latching is not the way to handle it. He wasn’t trying to attack her for suggesting it. From what it sounds like the baby was crying for hours and any parent would try to do their best to alleviate that for their child. He was concerned. Just because he is a man doesn’t mean he can’t suggest things for their child. I think a lot of people forget that the men are parents too whether or not they physically birthed the child. They are allowed to suggest things and he should’ve been able to without being made to feel like he attacked her. I had trouble getting my baby to latch for hours and if my husband had suggested formula I would’ve thought about it as he’s concerned for our baby. Not that he’s attacking me personally. Besides that you can supplement with a little formula and try breastfeeding again after they are fed. It helps everyone calm down. A distressed baby is not going to want to latch. It is not as bad as everyone makes it out to be. She wouldn’t have lose her entire breastfeeding journey.

[@annchang7037]

@@loveli8491 I agree with you. He wasn't ignoring her desires of breastfeeding or not wanting baby to be breastfed. It seems like in that moment, there was a lot of chaos & he just wanted his baby to have food in his belly & can try breastfeeding in a few hrs when baby needs to eat again. She even said she sees his POV now that her hormones aren't so heightened. Meaning she agrees (mostly) with why he suggested formula in the first place. But I like how they're able to talk it out & rehash what happened without getting into another fight. Communication! :)

[@lanigrace]

Hey Matt I just want you to know there are some of us out here who do genuinely appreciate you. You are a great husband and father and try your best to do what’s right for Abby and the kids, they’re so lucky to have you and Abby!

[@AlinaKu93]

Matt and Abby may I give you some gentle advice? First of all hats off to both of you for being so open about your struggles. ❤ my advice is please don't mention divorce when you are upset. Do not open the door to divorce. By doing that you open the door for the enemy to come in and destroy your marriage. Life with kids challenges the marriage but you can do it! It'll get better soon❤ may your home be covered with Jesus blood so the enemy cannot enter to destroy your marriage and family. Hugs to you guys❤

[@eileentravers1542]

Agreed. Should be unmentionable.

[@mimiohnine]

Yes! Totally agree. The enemy is searching for any crack in a door to kill, steal and destroy families.

[@beabchill]

Amen, I bless your marriage Abby and Matt, and I agree with the comments; rebuke the adversary in Jesus Christ Almighty name because the devil is a liar ♥️💕🩸

[@Boofyre]

I agree 100% My ex husband used to bring up divorce when we fought 😢

[@earthstar7534]

Yup, unless you are done, dusted and filing it shouldn't be weaponized. If someone is talking about it that means they are seriously considering it

[@victoriapeterson4843]

Y’all are amazing parents. Just here to say after hearing Abby’s fears of August not breathing while sleeping, I was the same way. And truly, the Owlet sock gave me so much peace of mind. We learned how to put it on the right way after a couple failed attempts and never had any false alarms. One time, at 3 months, it went off, alerting that his oxygen had dipped. We went in and checked him, and repositioned him in his sleep and he was fine. However, I choose not to even think about what could have happened without the Owlet. We used it until our sweet boy was 1 years old. And recommend it to everyone. Just from one mama to another. 💗💗💗 God bless you both!!

[@neysta2136]

As much as childbirth is very much about the mother I do feel for Matt, he as a dad is going through things too and shouldn’t be forgotten. Thanks for being so open about talking about real life things

[@asanelekoyana]

Yeah shame. He needs to be awarded the same grace, patience and parenting.

[@GOTIGERSGO2010]

I think a lot of it is just they are so young… but I tend to agree with this. He’s constantly responsible for her emotional health, And he shouldn’t be. He’s a great and involved dad doing all he can for the family. And I feel it will be a long while before they figure this out. But that’s life. Figuring out how to balance all these things.

[@kutie216]

I agree I think its a little sad he is dismissed so much. My husband and I had our first baby the day before their baby was born and I think it’s important to recognize it’s hard on the dads too and they’re doing their best and are likely also very exhausted from sleeping in uncomfortable chairs and being a support system. My husband was amazing before, during, and after but he did try to push formula for supplementing when I wanted very badly to breastfeed exclusively. We did end up giving our baby 2-3 small bottles of 20 ml of formula after I breastfed him first to try and get his weight up and thankfully it did not negatively impact milk supply. There is so much going on after the baby is born and I can totally see how some dads get neglected or dismissed in the process. I am so thankful for my husband I couldn’t do any of this without him or his support

[@asanelekoyana]

@@kutie216 this is so beautiful. I’m sure he appreciates you so much

[@krisselena924]

Definitely, especially when men are wired to find solutions. And I see him trying, but men do need direct communication. As silly as that sounds. But both are doing the best they can, I see that too.

[@sheliadrennan653]

Matt will not shut up are listen he still is not understanding what abby is trying to say they had a misunderstanding it happened its over move on now hes bringing up donuts...and still not listening to abby you can here it in her voice matt let me talk let me finish what im saying.

[@paulagabriele3512]

"You can't be everything to me". This is so true! Everyone has a purpose in our life and we need to apreciate this more.

[@sarahefranklin1]

Breastfeeding was SO hard for me and my baby and caused the most strain in my marriage. No one can put words to it until you experience it yourself. Thank you for talking about this!!

[@erinpauley6697]

It is so different for each mom, each baby. Always a fed baby is always a happy baby no matter how it happens but the emotions behind it all are real.

[@TeaGreenz]

I feel like a lot of times we operate as if we're 50/50 in parenthood in terms of decision making but in reality the mother is the one giving all her time and knows all the research.

[@Elisa82694]

Can we just all agree on this. The mental toll we go through from the moment we become pregnant. I mean the guys NEVER do the research lol like literally. Please let’s stop pretending women stay home with kids more often because they want to ( which I’m sure is part of it) when in reality it makes so much more sense that the KEY caretaker can handle the kids and home better. Women would spend more time trying to teach their husbands everything before they even left the front door lol

[@ashleyd675]

Not correct at all. Maybe the men you know aren't informed, but you can't speak for all men. Fathers help just as much, if the mother doesn't want to allow him to help that's her issue to deal with. He may not be pregnant with me, that doesn't make him any less of a parent or any less informed..

[@HelloMoto_]

This is true. Yes they can help, and do the best they can but if we are honest the mother holds most of the responsibility of the pregnancy and the newborn. It just is what it is based on the fact that our senses are more heightened and we have that mother instinct kicking in, and we just perceive and connect more with the baby. That being said though, I do wish men took the initiative more with doing research and spending hours googling, etc. I spend lots of time on reddit reading to make sure I’m not the only one ahaha.

[@FFlores79]

I agree because the pregnant woman has no choice..there is no escaping the things that are necessary that we go through..not saying we don't want to do it but men seem to always at the end of the day have the choice..they have options. My husband also makes zero effort to research and probably still doesn't even understand the basic female internal anatomy lol but he can research tools and equipment and lawn care for days.

[@rainbow-or3qr]

It’s called the mental load and 9 times out of 10 the mother does take on the mental load of life. Organising appointments, researching things, starting weaning/potty training, worrying about nutrition, looking into clubs etc etc. that doesn’t mean dads never do it, but just that most of the time all of this stuff falls on the mum

[@courtneyowens2297]

One of the most helpful things that my husband and I do with those irrational fears that come in, is a change in phrasing. I tell my husband "tell me why ___ won't happen" and he logically works through why it will not be a problem. It helps nearly every time! 😊

[@beans4853]

How! I have irrational fears and I can walk myself through how it can't happen logically and my body still reacts as if it's happening

[@courtneyowens2297]

@@beans4853 It helps to hear it, from someone who sounds calm and knowledgeable. I can convince myself I'm wrong if I try to logic-brain my panic 😂 BUT, if it doesn't work for you, I'm sorry!❤️ Wishing you all the best in finding a solid coping method!

[@brittanyhoward9186]

I understand Abby’s desperation and desire to do it, but in full transparency, as a woman, I do understand Matt…you’re child’s need being met when he is screaming and hungry does supersede the desire to validate someone’s emotion, even your wife. I so appreciate them mutually hearing one another out. Also. Like imagine the man telling the woman she’s just sensitive to his tone…. He took that well. And Abby saying she felt useless was so sad! She is giving that baby so much, even if she can’t get up and change a diaper.

[@marie-ellenjosephides]

Abby you are doing amazing! If I had listened to my pediatrician about breastfeeding I wouldn't have gotten to where I am today at 14.5 months and still able to breastfeed. You do you. You listen to your baby. He wants milk, you give him milk. Milk production is based on demand. The more you breastfeed the more you will have or the more you will be able to have enough for your baby. Thank you for your honesty, it feels better to not feel alone...

[@CH-sr7yx]

It’s really brave to share what y’all have shared the last few episodes but it’s so so nice for people in the same position to know they aren’t alone or crazy. Having kids is a roller coaster for everyone and it’s so beautiful but soooo stressful. Thank you for normalizing these things ❤️

[@johannaflex9707]

Honestly Matt is so ignorant about breastfeeding. He needs to educate himself about it. Can’t believe he still doesn’t understand that our bodies were MADE to feed our babies and this is his 2nd kid. He acts like it’s not that big of a deal either way, but for most woman who plan on breastfeeding they need support! Not a solution to just give a bottle from an ignorant dad especially those first few weeks.

[@biancatav]

right?? he is so ignorant about birth and bf that it doesnt even look like that this is his second kid in less than two years

[@johannaflex9707]

@@biancatav yes, I find it extremely annoying

[@emilydeterding2711]

The C-section was a ton tougher than vaginal with hormones and physically. I had 3 vaginal deliveries. But one was a shoulder dystocia, so my baby girl (baby #4) wound up an emergency C-section. I feel you 💯. It’s a whole new ball game. It’s super hard to not be able to pick up your kids and to feel like you have a need for care as much as your new baby. I’ll be praying for you as you go through this transition. I’m just 3 months postpartum and I’m still not wholly recovered.

[@destin.marie.]

Up at 330 with a migraine but at least this podcast is uploaded ❤ 😅 breast feeding practically after a C-section is sooo hard there's so many hormones, drugs, and pain and with that comes HUGE emotions. So proud of you guys! I'll be having my second C-section in January 🎉❤

[@Iam_laurenthrasherrr]

The fighting 😂😂😂 dude this is every couple wow. You’re so right Abby, no guy, especially when they’re angry, wants to be told how to do something. At least something I learned with my ex is that when I tell him EXACTLY what I need and how he felt like I was robbing him of being able to meet my need naturally. So much grace is needed on both sides in the heat of the moment. I’m sure y’all know this.

[@sierrakielpinski]

To add to that whole part about how there’s emotions tied to breastfeeding, Abby is so right. I only last 6 weeks with my first born and it was just so draining for me. I wanted to keep going but my family, bless their hearts, kept making formula bottles because they didn’t want to see me struggle and wanted to help. After I dried up from not breastfeeding as much, I cried multiple times a week for about 6 months. I wanted to try to lactate again but I worked full time and just didn’t have the time to pump every hour to try to get a supply again. For months I grieved what I lost. Breastfeeding truly is an emotional thing. I’m praying I can be successful my next baby that I’m currently pregnant with. I’d rather go through the mental exhaustion of adjusting to a healthy breastfeeding experience than just quit and lose out on that experience. So I totally understand why Abby is so adamant on persevering.

[@Starbuxlvr1313]

Breastfeeding a newborn is not as easy as people think! My daughter is 20 years old today but for the first 2 weeks of her life we joke saying nobody saw her face because I was constantly breastfeeding. I didn’t have the support I needed but Abby you made the way I felt make so much sense! If I knew then what I know now I’d be forever grateful!❤

[@MindfulMovement12]

Intrusive thoughts are so real Abby, I'm so glad someone is finally talking openly about it. My child is 2.3yr old and i'm so scared she will get stolen out of her bed at night, its crazy but it happens! I don't think people really really tell you how hard being a mother is! Strongs Abby & Matt we all doing our best and you are 2!

[@beans4853]

And it doesn't help when you have a very wild imagination

[@kayla.reneee]

I am newly pregnant (11 weeks) and hearing this was very eye opening and comforting, thank you so much for sharing the raw moments. ❤

[@michalmangiameli240]

I wish that Matt would educate himself on breastfeeding. The first few days it's all colostrum. Her milk wasn't even in yet. That's how our bodies are designed. Research the science and benefits and support your wife!

[@samhill6454]

I'm sure he is learning from Abby! Its not his fault he isn't educated on it. He probably does his best to support her and is a great husband!

[@carolinamarin7436]

​@@samhill6454he should educate himself, and he also already had a baby

[@Em-un8gw]

Tbf I don’t blame him your natural instinct when a baby is crying and he physically can’t feed it to calm it down by breastfeeding so his instinct is to help by formula cos that’s the only way he can

[@mindysueloowho]

He’s asking his WIFE! …why would he “google it”? 😂 Matt gets so much hate, that I don’t think is warranted. ❤ love the whole family! ❤

[@jayannakelley9051]

Exactly! My doctor & nurse’s explained that to me through 3 pregnancies. Did they not go over this with you? Colostrum is extremely important & helps protect your baby from picking up illnesses easily.

[@daneshas1468]

I just think not enough grace has been given to Matt. Men just don’t understand, how can they? If a Mom or mother figure can care for birth Mom postpartum that really helps. Let Dad run errands, be happy and help where he can. The nursery, Dad, and Mom cares for the baby. I feel for Abby but I feel for Matt too. No one wants to hear their baby cry. Matt pushing for the baby to be fed is love too.

[@lmp-5034]

They completely made him feel like he’s so unknowable and has no place to speak. Yes women carry, because only we can, but that doesn’t make a mama concerns any less than the mothers. It’s almost like they’re told to shut up and let the mom handle everything.

[@lmp-5034]

Unknowledgeable **^

[@daneshas1468]

@@lmp-5034 yep and I know it’s an unpopular opinion. Dad’s matter too and they can’t be everything to everyone in those situations. I’m glad they talked it out 😊

[@whitneywilliams8724]

Completely agree!

[@Teddypup08]

I love the quality of communication this young couple shows by example. It's crazy how wise they are and reflective at their young ages.

[@GigiLuv4U]

Yes it is because they show their vulnerabilities to one another. Both communicate each other's weaknesses and not take it as a negative but instead as a positive reflection of improvement. I wish more people were like this. If so, the world would be a much more humble place.

[@KristinaKk_xx120]

I appreciate the vulnerability so much! You are helping normalize the true feelings and emotions that can happen after giving birth and helping so many families in doing so ❤️

[@breannawilmoth3291]

I’m a over-supplier and donated over 19,000 oz and honestly I feel like it’s better to be a over-supplier than a under supplier just due to the stress under suppliers have. Postpartum is so overwhelming and a emotional rollercoaster. ❤

[@rol2377]

i’m hearing abby say breastfeeding was extremely important to her, and matt say breastfeeding was not at all important to him. but instead of being a supportive partner and asking abby how he could help her meet her goals, he chose to pressure her to give in to his preferences because he felt uncomfortable with his baby crying after experiencing a c-section. he misjudged the reason the baby was crying to be for food and added stress to an already stressful situation, and i didn’t hear one apology. matt was 100% in the wrong here

[@Kyiecutie]

God, yes. Thank you.

[@neen2660]

Thank you.

[@pariahcarrey]

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@jencruzr91]

This is the most relatable episode you two have put out. You took me right back to a year ago when my baby was born and my husband and I were going THROUGH IT. Thanks for being vulnerable and honest 💕 you got this, guys!!

[@JennyGraves-sk7fn]

Matt, I have noticed how hard you work trying to be there for all of your family! Remember, take care of yourself as well.

[@charityguthrie]

You two are doing great. The baby blues are real but you are pulling through. My first son (25 now) got spinal meningitis at 3 weeks. He had only been around family and 1 trip to Wal-Mart. We were in the hospital for 9 nights. I was so afraid he was going to stop breathing he slept on top of me and then with us until he was 5. The hardest thing was getting him in his own bed when his sister came along. The fear you feel for your littles is like no other. You two are communicating and loving each other through the hard parts. I totally believe you 2 will be together forever!

[@Stephbl25]

I’m so glad I had my mom who successfully breastfed 4 babies telling me every time “ if you have to give a bottle a couple times in the first couple days it’s just fine. It’s perfectly normally. I didn’t even know some were so against giving formula ever in the beginning until my oldest was 4 and I was pregnant the second time! Sometimes I am so glad I had mine before the wave of social media. So much less pressure to be the perfect mom!

[@mimiohnine]

Social media has taken over for us grandparents who want to offer advice but get backlash from our children who only listen to peers. And most of the peers don’t even have children! Ugh

[@johanna2690]

@@mimiohnine Most grandparents have used formula and view breastfeeding and yucky. So not much advice there.

[@mimiohnine]

@@johanna2690 oh yes. I’m sure you think you’re right. Except you’re not. I breast fed all four of my children. I stayed home with my children. They benefited from my advice, money and time until they had their own children. Now it’s whatever the doctor says is gospel.

[@johanna2690]

@@mimiohnine Congrats. How many of your peers breastfed?

[@Synheath]

My husband was listening to this with me and was like (to Matt) whoa bro you gotta step away and let your wife handle the baby 😂😂😂 my husband has been there with me 4 times now 😅

[@emilykelly5253]

Your husband knows! Lol

[@razup2323]

Exactly. Babies cry, sometimes scream. Deal with it.

[@jessjsidgrbjsoenp]

Then you don’t think she would have turned around a found something new to cry about ? Like how he gave her all the responsibility of the baby and left her to it? I don’t think will ever be a right answer with that little girl

[@jodie5238]

These two drive me crazy just so over the top with everything! I'm a mum of three and a nurse try that a real job and kids omg ,these two just keep popping up on my KZbin 😢 bla bla bla

[@whatwhatwhatttttt]

@@jessjsidgrbjsoenp you're taking her shit husband's side?? lmfaoo what a pick me

[@elliezalex2431]

Why is Matt getting so much sympathy? He is deliberately putting out content that makes him look good after admitting to in ignoring his wife for 48 hours post birth? I’m a wife and mother, this is not normal behavior.

[@neen2660]

Yeah idk either

[@sara-jayn]

He’s a manipulative narcissistic abuser. Unfortunately their audience is mainly teenagers who have no frame of reference for what a good man is and they can’t see the signs. I feel so bad for Abby. Because if she ever gets the instinct to leave, all she will see is a thousand comments that say how amazing Matt is, because he deletes every comment that doesn’t praise him. So she’ll start to doubt herself. She needs her family. At least we know her grandma knows Matt is a narcissist.

[@KaylaCorrine17]

@@sara-jaynjust out of curiosity, where/why do you think her grandma knows?

[@Mickie1198]

Did her grandma say something about Matt?

[@sara-jayn]

@@KaylaCorrine17 she called him one in a video.

[@Meepmoop26]

Yes it is weird that he sexualizes her breastfeeding…

[@rlyn1175]

Breastfeeding my babies was the most beautiful, intimate experience. You're nourishing your baby from your body and it is so empowering. There is a bond that forms in those moments where you are all that your baby needs that is so incredibly and inexplicably special. I only did it for 4-6 months with 2 of my 3 babies, and I will never forget that special time.

[@hopevitale8050]

Agreed 🩷 it’s a sacrifice that is well worth it. Breastfeeding has not come easy to me but I LOVE it so much despite that.

[@ericagreene1579]

I like how curious Matt is about Abby's experience. and how expressive Abby is about her emotions. interesting episode you guys!

[@HelloMoto_]

You should interview Jess and Gabe. I feel like y’all would click well and the conversation about parenting would flow really smoothly.

[@merrellkey8550]

Yes!

[@Bethmarie44]

Hello Howards ❤ L&D nurse here. You are doing EVERYTHING right. All of these feelings are sooo valid. The first couple weeks are soo hard! My recommendation is to look up info on baby’s second night, sometimes called second night syndrome. It can happen really anytime from birth through 62 hours. Babies act starving and inconsolable. You guys did amazing. Congrats on your beautiful boys

[@brittanywallace2803]

YES! This happened to me and my nurse handed me a paper on it that night! It made me feel better to know it was so common that it had a name.

[@_pandacecelya_]

wow I’ve never heard of this! That definitely happened with my firstborn our first night we were home from the hospital. My husband was so desperate at midnight he called his mom to come over and help and she did! She was a lifesaver! With our secondborn, born just a week ago, we didn’t have that with her!

[@alexinaaron1022]

Thank you for saying irrational fears out loud. That is so relatable and probably every parent has them, but they still make you feel crazy.

[@beabchill]

I’m an auntie to many wonderful nieces and nephews and I too had the same thoughts while babysitting; and in the morning I felt like a zombie, I was so sleep deprived because I kept waking up to check on the breathing 😮‍💨 😂…. Next time, I plan on investing in those breathing 🦶 monitors 😅🙏🏼♥️

[@RybugAndBros]

Matt needs to stop talking like he knows a damn thing about childbirth

[@marymccann4471]

Thank you, Abby for recognizing how hard it is for mom’s who want to be with their babies but have no choice but to go to work. My daughter is a teacher and she wants so badly to be home with her young daughter and 2nd child on the way. I pray God will provide a way for her to be home with her children. Abby, you are an inspiration.

[@MimmY261]

This is my favourite podcast so far because I never related to something like this. The fights between couples after having a baby it’s SO real! I’m happy I’m not alone here

[@christineeyates]

Oh my gosh, the part when you guys are talking about when Abby wanted Matt to leave the room but not actually leave cracked me up cause that is SO relatable! Also, I wasn’t able to breast feed my son for very long. He was born was a tongue tie which affected latching right away in the hospital & my milk supply was low. I tried really hard to do everything I could to make breastfeeding work & it was the hardest thing I’ve ever been through. I ended up formula feeding my son & after some time, I ended up accepting that & was okay with it because my mental health improved. Abby you are incredible & I admire you guys. You are not alone ❤

[@isabellelittle932]

Researching about parenting - even things that are specific to the woman like breastfeeding and birth - should NOT be only on the mother. The dad needs to embrace her motherly instincts or do the research that backs it up if he’s not automatically on board.

[@Nancy-pi2oh]

Yo rings…stop overtalking your wife and cutting her off…self-absorbed much?!? It’s no wonder a fight went down in the hospital…it’s not all about you buddy!

[@whatwhatwhatttttt]

he's mourning over a career that would've crashed and burned anyways 💀

[@akaemmaclaire]

y'all showing the raw truth of your relationship is such a resource to young adults navigating similar circumstances! thank you for never filtering out your real selves

[@user-ob7cb6bv9f]

I love how real you both are about parenthood. It’s so helpful to hear from both mom and dads side with everything. I’m a teacher and had my first baby this year. In my district, we don’t have a set maternity leave. We have to use the sick days we’ve saved up. I had enough to cover 5 weeks, then had to take a dock in pay for the final 9 days. It’s so frustrating how maternity leave is set up in the US.

[@annikajensen8960]

Matts says multiple times, „i knew breastfeeding was important FOR ABBY“. But the reason it is important for abby, is that she knows how important it is In many ways for her/your baby and for the baby-mama bond. It is really hard to feel like you are failing at the singular most important task and to still keep trying. Breastfeeding is much more than just providing calories. It is providing love, life, and good health to your baby. it is absolutely fine to not want to do it, or to not be able to and end up giving formula. But if you want to do it as a mum, it means to give it all , from a body and soul that aches from the pregnancy and birrh. that is what the fathers can only try to grasp. i understand wanting your baby fed. But breastfeeding (especially in the first few weeks) means so SO much more than anyone except for a mother could ever understand. thats my two cents.

[@annikajensen8960]

That said, every woman listening appreciates your will to understand. You seem to be a great , loving dad. i enjoy listening very much and am planning on forcing my husband to listen aswell ;D

[@debragoin2694]

I absolutely love you guys. I am 67 years old, raised in a totally different world than it is now. So I love hearing about your lives and watching your children, I don't know. I just love it. I appreciate you so much. Thank you!

[@kristymaiale3527]

Thank you for sharing this very relatable content. My husband and I just had our baby August 7th, 2023. We have experienced a lot of the same emotional challenges its nice to know we are not alone. Mostly when the baby cries I said it feels like, "house is on fire" I need to put it out as soon as possible. However it is not the same for dads. Knowing how to be a supportive partner to your wife will help your family more than you know. I feel like moms get it but there should be more education out there for dads about everything we go through and how to help.

[@ashleymufasa]

Yes when the baby cries its like alarms going off in your mind and instant panic. I had such a hard time when my son would cry in his car seat while I was driving.

[@IsabellaL9659]

Why is it not the same for dads about stopping the baby from crying as soon as possible? If dads is taking care of baby and doing his responsibilities I don’t see what the difference would be.

[@ashleymufasa]

@@IsabellaL9659 we're talking about the way it feels to a mother. Hearing the baby cry triggers our hormones and causes a physical reaction in our bodies.

[@IsabellaL9659]

@@ashleymufasa this makes more sense. Thank you for the explanation. I though you meant dads just did not care when their baby’s cried, but I get now that you meant the hormones triggering certain reactions. Thank you again for the explanation.

[@ashleymufasa]

@@IsabellaL9659 you're welcome 😊

[@03kmcinty23]

Wow thank you for this. I feel like Abby articulated *exactly* how it feels when contending with feeding struggles and the drive/impulse/instinct towards breastfeeding. It brought me right back to that space and I remember the desperation and panic I felt because I so badly needed/wanted to nourish my baby in that way.

[@YouCanCallMeDice]

Matt is either naive towards the birthing process or choosing to be ignorant. And I'm leaning towards him choosing to be this way. Rude AF to Abby's face but in a passive way that her "so in love" self can't recognize it yet.

[@candor-and-moxie]

Listening to y'all's description of your fight reminds me of something I learned in therapy. There's 4 main reasons for fighting in a relationship: all or nothing thinking, jumping to conclusions, making assumptions, and filling in the blanks. If you can catch yourself with these in the moment or use "I" statements and objective descriptions of the situation at hand when explaining your feelings, i think that could help. It has helped me a lot in my own marriage. Not medical advice and I'm not a therapist. Just some rando on the internet in therapy and seeing the same kind of fights I used to have. Wishing y'all all the best!

[@TheMintycrow]

Matt if you’re wanting to know more about breastfeeding I encourage you to take a good look into it. It’s genuinely the most beautiful thing God has created and the benefits for mothers and baby are incredible and mind blowing!!

[@kerriethompson7234]

I hate how Matt is trying to say he is the more sleep deprived

[@happyvalleybudgets]

One thing to remember is to let Matt take care of you in HIS way. As a married woman of 28 blissful years ( 😂 ) when you expect him to react in a way you imagine you set him up for failure. I feel so bad for all your big emotions, remember to give yourself some grace.

[@abbyharris5829]

No. If HIS way is not what SHE needs then she shouldn’t just stand by not having her needs met. This is awful advice. Especially for postpartum couples because it’s not about him and how he wants to take care of her and what feels right to him. It’s about her and what she needs and how she needs to be taken of. She needs to communicate those needs but she’s not just supposed to let him take care of her in a way that isn’t helpful.

[@Kyiecutie]

I don’t vibe with this at all…. Set him up for failure? Girl, she’s being set up for failure if he doesn’t know how to take care of her in the way that serves her.

[@kristinakanevsky4933]

My husband and I went through the exact same argument over breastfeeding and formula. His concern was that our baby eat and I felt so betrayed as well. This episode really hit me in the feels ❤

[@julietgendron]

i don’t think most women “want to expose their breasts in public”, they have no choice bc the baby needs to eat and might not eat with a cover on. personally i would have preferred to use one but my son would try to rip it off every time!

[@LoriLawrence-tj9xt]

Ohhhhhmannnnnn… my baby is 22, and I can remember the breastfeeding struggle in the beginning. My husband and I had the exact same situation. I can remember all these years later how that hormonal freak out felt over one formula feed. I’m a birth doula now, and I talk to my clients about this very thing in our last prenatal appointment. It’s a THING!!

[@midwestmisfitmama4627]

Oh my gosh Abby I just want to squeeze you! My husband said almost the same thing to me in the hospital.... , freshly post op from my c section with my first daughter, middle of the night struggling to latch "is it really that big of a deal to give her formula?". When I tell you that fire came out of my ears, freaking fire flew out of my ears. I'm pretty sure I threw something at him. 😅 Breastfeeding is SO hard but SO rewarding and only something you get to do so many times in your life so enjoy it!!!! And congratulations ❤

[@Liz-gv3yx]

I see Matt’s deleted a lot of comments against him 😏

[@Nayero26]

I'm watching rhis and crying because I didn't have my mom postpartum, and 1 year later, I'm still so hurt by that. I was all alone my partner was working alot, I had a family who was supposed to care for me but she was starving me and not cleaning and we have an elderly person with Dementia in the house that I had to care for. I left like I was in hell. It's the worst thing I ever experienced it almost broke up my relationship. Only Prayer saved me.

[@edf18]

Had a similar experience it's so hard to even think back on it

[@Savyspice]

I love that Abby calls Matt out on his shit and doesn’t let it slide. Thank god.

[@ruthbennett5302]

I totally understand the irrational thoughts… I wouldn’t open the window because I thought a bird could fly in and carry him away! I’m laughing now but it felt so real and realistic at the time. Thank you for sharing how hard it is post partum! ❤

[@lindafalco6290]

Postpartum Anxiety is real, and the intrusive thoughts/ dreams don't stop. Abby, you are not alone, and the Owlet Dream Sock was a lifesaver for me.

[@KellyBurklund]

I swear these two are going to get flagged at their hospital. First, the staff having to curb Matt’s obsessive coaching with baby #1. And now a fight in the recovery room with baby #2. Geez.

[@Mayberry206]

The vulnerability in this episode is incredible! Thank y’all for sharing! I am sure it was extremely helpful to so many (including me)! It’s just nice to know that there are other people out there who struggle with the same things that we do. Even people that seem so put together like y’all do. This was appreciated. ❤️