How Raina Dugar Found A Way To Connect With Son Post Tough Pregnancy

Raina Dugar did not just have a difficult pregnancy, she also faced challenges after giving birth. Dugar, who had several fingers pointing at her for how she was raising her son, dealt with innumerable unwanted opinions, superstitions, and hurdles. However, she remained patient with her approach and believed in her inner strength. Today, Dugar is raising her son with sheer motherhood instinct and self-belief.  

In conversation with SheThePeople, Raina Dugar recalls her challenging pregnancy period, post-delivery phase, difficulty in bonding with her child, and how she went past hurdles with patience and self-belief. 

Raina Dugar's Story

‘I found I was pregnant during the first COVID-19 lockdown, a challenging time. My mornings were full of nausea and left me exhausted. The atmosphere was apprehensive due to the pandemic, and that made it uncomfortable.

The vomiting took a toll on my body, making the pregnancy journey less enjoyable. However, my father-in-law’s efforts to lift my spirits stood out. He would dress up as a street hawker and playfully deliver food, providing some relief.

As my pregnancy progressed to the 8th month, I received news about a nuchal-cord issue. The possibility of a normal delivery was gone.

On December 6th, Hriyaan was born, bringing excitement and new challenges. The hospital enforced a policy of placing the baby in the nursery, requiring the mother to visit for feeding. I went to the feeding room to bond with my son, but my milk supply was zero. While other mothers fed their babies, I shared gazes with my son, realizing we may never know that connection.

A head nurse assisted with breastfeeding, but I overheard a comment about the weakest child being the one deprived of breast milk, which affected me.

I tried lactation powder, hormonal pills, and every recommended remedy to boost milk production, but nothing worked. My attempts at pumping yielded a mere 5ml. Stress weighed on me. I turned to social media and scoured the internet for solutions, but found none.

Superstitions crept in, with people suggesting that hugging the baby could enhance milk production. My husband pointed out my ulterior motives for holding him, highlighting that my thoughts had taken a toll on my mental well-being. My blood pressure shot up and my doctor mentioned signs of postpartum depression which concerned my family.

Gradually, I introduced formula milk to my son and ignored unsolicited advice. My focus shifted to him. I witnessed him achieve developmental milestones ahead of time, which made me realize the pressure I placed on myself.

While women suffer enough after childbirth, all these things just add to the pressure of not being enough and vulnerable.’

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