The unspoken parenting

In motherhood, and parenthood in general, it seems like there are so many "unspeakables." Right from the begining of pregnancy, we don't talk enough about the hard issues or the ones that don't sound as appeasing. Whether that be the lack in sexual drive after giving birth, the strain on a marriage with a newborn, the days you want to pull your hair out, the sudden careless approach to your appearance. The list could really go on forever. And what about those times you feel absolutely discouraged. Discouraged because you feel you're not doing enough to help your child grow emotionally, spiritually, mentally, physically. Despite the fact that you spend day after day working on fine motor skills, tactile stimulation, hand eye cordination, and language development. How many mothers (and fathers) out there don't feel like the hard issues are talked about enough? If it weren't for other parents being honest and offering their experiences upfront, I would think I'm absolutely insane in my parenting and my emotions.

Well today I am bringing up one of my own "sticky" issues. For sensitive ears, or should I say stomachs, maybe you want to tune out now. Don't worry, I'm not going to get graphic.

I've been breastfeeding for 9 months and 3 days now. To the dot. The first 6 months were exclusive and now Mini Doc Handsome eats baby food and table food as well. Yeseterday I recieved my first visit from that aunt none of us like, Aunt Flow. Gosh, I forgot how much I loathe her. It's been since January 2009 since I've had to deal with her antics yet she's back.

So my question to other woman out there, (and to make note of it to myself for future children and moms who ask), if you breastfed, how soon did you have a visit from Aunt Flow? Even if you did not breastfeed, how soon did your monthly visits return after giving birth? I am still at a loss for an explanation as to why my visits are suddenly returning. I have not experienced low milk supply lately, I haven't cut back on the amount I nurse, and I surely haven't been taking any medications or specific birth controls that would cause these visits to begin.

My amazing friend Mrs. Pnut reassured me I shouldn't be concerned. With her advice and my hour of research on the internet, I'm not. I just wonder what other woman experience in this area. It's nice to be reminded every once in awhile, you are not the only one wondering these questions. We are going through this together.