Taiwanese Star Ai Ya Details Breastfeeding Struggles and New Motherhood Challenges

Taiwanese celebrity Ai Ya, also known as Zhang Aiya, has candidly shared the intense realities of new motherhood following a Cesarean section, particularly focusing on the challenges of breastfeeding. Now an ambassador for International Breastfeeding Week, she spoke about her journey with "Mama & Baby Magazine."

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I kept telling myself, if I have breast milk, I'll try my best.

Ai Ya, who welcomed her son "Tiao Tiao" in February, described the physical pain of her C-section wound even as she endured the discomfort of initiating breastfeeding just a day later. She recounted a particularly memorable moment when her husband was astonished by how hot her milk was, highlighting the physical demands of lactation. "I kept telling myself, if I have breast milk, I'll try my best," she said, emphasizing her determination despite the pain.

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After becoming a mother, many things cannot wait.

The new mother also spoke about the significant mental and emotional adjustments. She noted that pregnancy fundamentally changed her thought process, shifting priorities to her child. "After becoming a mother, many things cannot wait," she explained, describing parenting as a continuous series of challenges requiring immediate attention. Her husband's unwavering sense of responsibility was a key factor in her decision to marry him, and she stressed the importance of a partner having a "shoulder to lean on."

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The most important thing is to have a sense of responsibility.

Addressing the pressures new mothers face, Ai Ya identified "mom guilt" – the internal anxiety of not doing enough – as a major struggle. She credits her husband's constant reassurance, telling her she was already doing a great job, as a vital support system. As she navigates her own experience and her role as an ambassador, Ai Ya's message to fellow parents is one of self-compassion: "While growing up with the child, don't forget to gently accompany yourself."

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While growing up with the child, don't forget to gently accompany yourself.