Is it okay to give up?

[prettybirdy27]

My LO was combo fed from the start due to my milk coming in way late. It was a week. I'm pretty sure because of that, my supply was never all that great.

I went back to work when she was 3 months and started pumping all the time, which I hate. But my supply actually increased a bit and I was getting 7 oz per pumping session, which was awesome! She started not being able to latch very well though, since she was given bottles all day at daycare. It's kind of like she just forgot, so I stopped breastfeeding and just started pumping, plus the formula.

About two weeks ago, I started a new job, and I've been so exhausted from it that I skipped an evening pump two nights in a row. My supply plummeted. I'm lucky to get 5 oz a day total now. I've tried fenugreek, mothers milk tea, and adding back in pumping sessions, but nothing has worked. Today I tried to get her to latch hoping that would stimulate me to produce more, but she flat out refused and screamed until we gave her a bottle.

It makes me feel absolutely terrible to think of just letting myself dry up, but right now I'm lucky to produce 5 oz in an entire day. I just feel absolutely awful that I'm thinking of giving up something that's so good for her, just because I'm lazy and sad. She is 5 months and she is in the 86th percentile for weight and 91st for height, so i know she's growing just fine on mostly formula. I just feel like I'm failing her.

 

[flipporama1]

Aww, I understand your frustration. I've been in the same boat. My 3rd baby was only breastfed for 6 months for almost the same reasons. DON'T feel bad about stopping. If YOU feel like it's best for you and her then do what YOU want. I've breastfed all my children anywhere from 6 weeks (my first) to 21 months and everything in between, including Tandem and I've breastfed my nephew. I'm a very pro breastfeeding mom. BUT I strongly believe if continuing breastfeeding is more harmful than good, then just move on. Like you said, she's healthy and thriving. That's all that matters good luck in whatever you choose!

 

[noon_child]

It is OK if it is OK. It isn't if it isn't.

I hope that makes sense; I guess what I'm trying to say is that no-one should be pressured by society, friends, family, health professionals to either keep going OR give up. No-one knows what is right for you.

 

[Bekah78]

My midwife says "a fed baby is a happy baby" whether it's through BF or FF. Do what's right for you and your circumstances and don't feel pressurised.

 

[lxb]

^^what they said.

of course it's OK. Do what is best for you and your family. Your physical well being is most important and the best you can do for your baby. A baby does not need a sad mommy!

The society now gives a lot of pressure for mothers to breastfeed. there is absolutely nothing wrong with feeding formula. I was formula fed (and I turned out well )