This is probably something you rarely hear but I decided to EFF DD2 from the start even after EBF DD1.
I didnt have any problems with BF DD1. She fed like a dream.....but about 10 times a day for 45 mins at a time, and wouldnt even consider dropping a BF until well after weaning was established. This inevitably lead to co-sleeping, not being able to get out and about very often and not even being able to be left with Dad without me (tried expressing after the recommended 6 weeks to avoid "nipple confusion" but was too late by then and there was no way she would accept anything but boob).
Now dont get me wrong I didnt really mind any of this and really did enjoy BF.
When I found out I was expecting DD2, DD1 was 18 months old, still co-sleeping and having a nightly BF. We decided to gradually get her out of these habbits and she was finally off the boob and sleeping in her own bed by 23 months.
This experience made me really question how the hell I would manage to BF DD2 without it having a huge effect on DD1 by limiting the time I could give her greatly. It would also effect me being able to take her to all her clubs, Ms and Ts and Tumble tots etc, as it would mean no-one else could watch DD2 and unlike many people I have huge admiration for, I simply cannot get my boobs out anywhere and everywhere and NIP.
In the end after a huge mental battle with myself, but with great support from hubby and family, I decided it would be best for our family to FF DD2, and I do not for one moment regret my decision, I know it was right for us. DD2 is a really happy, healthy and beautiful baby, and that would be no different if she were BF.
I know alot of women who BF all their kids, and I know people will say "well you could have managed it if you did this, this and this", but everyone has their own individual situation and people should be respectful of this xxx