Coronation Street's Helen Flanagan has shared an emotional update on her parenting journey. The ITV star issued a lengthy statement on Instagram which has prompted support for the actress from her fans.
Flanagan spoke about her recent decision to stop breastfeeding, and how it's "okay" to take advantage of childcare available. She explained to followers on social media that motherhood has been stressful prompting her to find the right support.
She said: "So this week I have been focusing on trying to get Charlie off the boob during the day. I’ve decided I want to stop breastfeeding but for me I’ve decided to do it gradually as I think that’s best for Charlie," she wrote.
READ MORE: Messages of support pour in as Helen Flanagan shares heart-breaking loss
"Charlie was feeding so regularly during the day like a newborn really and had no interest in food whatsoever, it’s day 3 now of no boob milk during the day and he is doing so well with his eating. Maybe next week I’ll work on cutting out night feeds but I am going to see how he goes as I don’t want to upset him so I thought gradual is best.
"I have got childcare to help with it as I was feeling really stressed with it and felt like I needed that support and it’s okay to get a bit of help sometimes. All I’ve known really how to look after a baby is just to feed them as soon as they cry. I wanted to have some nice memories and pictures and videos of nursing my baby... it’s highly likely Charlie is my last baby.
"I wanted to do a nice pretty reel with nice music and maybe a pretty floaty dress but this is the reality of mum life... ironing board in the back, clutter on the sofa and Delilah's cartoons in the back. Stopping nursing can be quite emotional, there is no right or wrong, I just think happy mummy happy baby.
"I wanted to stop feeding as I just felt I wanted my body back to normal, I wanted more independence and I felt it was better for Charlie for his eating during the day. I suppose as mums all we can do is our best."
"You’re a queen and your babies are incredibly lucky. We all need help… don’t know what I’d do without my mummy," wrote one fan, as another penned: "Thank you for sharing all of this, BF journey is so unique to you, your baby and your body sending so much love."
