How Breastfeeding Helped Alexis Kristiana Tap Into Her Power

Images via Alexis Kristiana (@alexiskristiana)

Influencer, model, and mom of three Alexis Kristiana Adegoke hasn’t been shy about sharing her motherhood journey. From positive pregnancy tests to Baby’s first moments to how she and her husband stay connected, Alexis has opened up about parenthood with gentle candor. It’s no wonder why more than 60,000 people have been following along to hear her story! And Alexis brings that same magnetic relatability when talking about breastfeeding, too. 

When Alexis started breastfeeding as a first-time mom, she was struck by just how much she didn’t know about the experience. But now, after nursing three little ones (including baby Zaire who was just born in April 2023!), she has lots of wisdom to share. In honor of Black Breastfeeding Week, we asked Alexis to talk about the challenges, victories, and lessons that she’s encountered along the way. Here are her words.   

How would you describe your breastfeeding journey?

Powerful. This journey is one that has been full of so much power! Power in finding my voice, power in finding out how resilient I really am, power in adapting and learning, and power in growth. This journey has shown me truly how powerful I can be when I go all in with something as difficult as breastfeeding. 

What kind of support did you have on your breastfeeding journey?

My husband is as much a part of my breastfeeding journey as myself. Without him I know for a fact that I wouldn’t have been able to have been breastfeeding going into year four. He was always right there ready to stand up for me if and when someone would have negative opinions in public—or even in private around family. He was always there to fill up my water, bring me snacks, and just be the best hype man ever! 

What kind of support or information do you wish you had on your breastfeeding journey?

I wish I had known just literally anything! When I first starting breastfeeding, I didn’t have anyone to look to for reference in my immediate family—I was the first to breastfeed. So I learned along the way. I wish I could go back and take a lactation class and educate myself more before I started that first journey back in 2019.  

What surprised you about breastfeeding?

That it could be painful at first! No one prepares you for the nipple discomfort and engorgement pain you’ll feel in those early weeks of your journey! Also, I had no idea about the countless benefits that you are able to provide your little one in addition to nutrition. Breastmilk is literally liquid gold, and I love that so much. 

What did you like best about breastfeeding?

The connection. It’s so beautiful and has been different to experience with all three of my kids. We each have our own little bond for life, and I love that for us. 

What challenges did you face while breastfeeding? How did you overcome them?

What challenges didn’t I face?! I first had to overcome the challenge of breastfeeding in public for the first time. It was a lot for me to finally drop the cover. But once I did, I never looked back. Another challenge was that I had an oversupply and overactive letdown with my first journey. I struggled learning how to manage that, but a lactation class helped me to address it!

Then my son developed a breastfeeding preference—which I had no idea was a thing! He only ate off my left breast from a certain point until he weaned at 3 years old. We also tandem nursed which was so challenging, but with some work, we found our way. Lastly, weaning was so emotional. It was one of the hardest things I’ve experienced. That required a lot of patience and love. 

What’s your best piece of advice you have for Black parents-to-be hoping to breastfeed?

Educate yourself! Being armed with knowledge about breastfeeding will help you have the best outcome possible for a healthy and strong journey.  

More on Black Breastfeeding Week:

• Unpacking the Racial Disparities in Breastfeeding
• Where Black Parents Can Turn for Breastfeeding Help
• Backlash Didn't Discourage This Black Breastfeeding Mama!
• This Mom Never Intended to Breastfeed—Here's Why She Changed Her Mind

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.