Struggling to give up breast feeding

Anon Imperfect Mum

Struggling to give up breast feeding

No negativity please I fully understand the benefits of beast fed over bottle I have a mum that guilt trips me so don't need you too!

I'm struggling coming to a decision on breast feeding my second. He is mix fed atm and it varies some days he is only bf then some days if I'm busy or he's extra hungry he gets the bottle more. I am considering stopping bf altogether so I can start weight loss shakes and anti depressants so I can try to get over this pnd and feel better about myself and have more energy to cope with my two boys under two. But I am struggling making the final decision because it is cheaper, more convenient at times and I feel guilty. I only managed to feed my first to 6 months as he stopped himself then and he fought it constantly through the 6 months but my new one is 5.5 months now and has had an easier journey for breastfeeding. What would you recommend?

Posted in:  Baby & Toddler, Baby Feeding

10 Replies

Anon Imperfect Mum

You have done better then me so I give you a medal for that!! I have only ever given my kids formula as breastfeeding was never for me. All my 3 boys are healthy and happy and that is all that matters to me. It is totally up to you and don't feel bad for what ever you decided to do. We all love our kids very much but Mum also has to be in a good place so if going to full time bottle feeding gets you back on track then so be it! Good luck ;)

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Anon Imperfect Mum

I recommend you look after yourself first and that means doing what ever you have to do so you can take your medication. Happy mum equals happy family. The benefits of having a happy mum far out weigh the benefits of breast feeding IMO

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Anon Imperfect Mum

I am taking the anti depressant escitalopram for my PND and I am still breastfeeding my 15mo. The doctor said it is safe to use and the benefits outwiegh any risk. Speak to your gp, he will be able to put you on something. Have you also looked at counselling? I saw a councilor and have benefited from that so much and along with the medication I am almost feeling 100% now.
In regards to losing weight, you would really be better to eat a balanced diet and exercise more which will be very benefical for bub too but I know how hard that can be LOL! Herbalife and Isowhey are both safe to use whilst breastfeeding, I believe. It is up to you whether you want to continue breastfeeding or not but if you want my opinion I would say continue. It doedoesn't cost a cent, it is best for baby and very continent. If you do decided to stop, dont feel guilty! 5.5months is a huge achievement and you should be so proud! You have given both your babies an awesome start in life! :)

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Anon Imperfect Mum

Yes I have booked into a counsellor in the next couple of weeks and see my doctor tomorrow to discuss everything available to me. I didn't know herbalife was ok whilst breastfeeding I might have a look into it thank you

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Anon Imperfect Mum

For me, I became more guilty when I began formula feeding.. My PND got out of control because the guilt just ate away at me.. I ended up going back to breastfeeding which was hard work building up my supply again.. I wish I hadn't have stopped!!

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Anon Imperfect Mum

Sometimes you need to put YOUR needs before bubs, especially if it's mental illness. As long as your baby is being fed whether it's boobie or formula then who cares, don't feel guilty!

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Anon Imperfect Mum

you need to do what is going to make you the best best mum. I suffered pnd and struggle through breastfeeding and it wasn't until I stopped and got help I really started to enjoy my babies and got the most out of them. You have given your Bub a great start on the breast so don't think at all that you have failed you have done a GREAT job now it's your turn.

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Anon Imperfect Mum

you need to do what is going to make you the best best mum. I suffered pnd and struggle through breastfeeding and it wasn't until I stopped and got help I really started to enjoy my babies and got the most out of them. You have given your Bub a great start on the breast so don't think at all that you have failed you have done a GREAT job now it's your turn.

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Anon Imperfect Mum

If that's what is best for you go for it. Maybe just wait till after the 6mth immunisation tho so he gets all the antibodies from your breast milk : )

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Anon Imperfect Mum

If that's what is best for you go for it. Maybe just wait till after the 6mth immunisation tho so he gets all the antibodies from your breast milk : )

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