Gemma Atkinson defends decision to stop breastfeeding five weeks after giving birth to son Thiago
GEMMA Atkinson has opened up about her decision to stop breastfeeding her son Thiago after five weeks.
The 38-year-old revealed her baby is now bottle fed – admitting it is ‘easier’ and ‘less stressful’ for her as she solo parents while fiancé Gorka Marquez is away working.
Gemma, who is also mum to four year old Mia, explained: “Asked this a lot too which I get . I personally only wanted to do 5wks BF.
“That’s what I did with Mia so I set myself that target. I was fortunate enough to be able to express a lot so he ended up having about 6wks.”
She continued: “My choice to stop was because it was exhausting on my own.
“My boobs & back were quite sore and knowing I had school coming up for Mia and knowing Gorka would be away in London I knew it would be easier & less stressful on the bottle and I’ve always said that’s how feeding should be.
“I enjoyed feeding them both and having the 5 wks with them both, but I’m enjoying this time too. Esp the bit where I know there’s other ppl can step in and feed him.”
Gemma added: “I know there’s a lot of judgment on mothers who bottle feed. There shouldn’t be, but there is.
“My thoughts are “fed is best” and as long as the mum and baby are happy, that’s what matters.”
Gemma and Gorka welcomed their son eight weeks ago, but the pro dancer has already had to get back to work for Strictly Come Dancing.
The couple have documented their latest foray into parents on their own show Gemma & Gorka: Life Behind The Lens.