When pumping starts interfering with being there for my babies

[Wugz22]

I only made it 4 months breastfeeding with my first, and I was determined to make it longer with my new sweet baby girl. I am back to work and am barely pumping enough to make her two bottles she needs while I'm away from her - and now this week, she has been refusing the breast when I get home after work. She cries and cries to eat and then turns away from the boob until I give up and give her a bottle. Luckily I have a pretty big freezer stash. I thought I'd just pump again once I get home from work, but I'm realizing that the 30 minutes it takes me to pump from start to finish is just not worth the 30 minutes of screaming from my toddler and 15 week old because I can't tend to them with these stupid bottles strapped to my chest. So I decided today, I'm going to drop the after work pump/feed and I know that'll cause my supply to further dip. My freezer stash won't last more than 2 or 3 weeks, and then I'll have to supplement. I feel really sad about it. I'm really hoping I can at least maintain breastfeeding at night (she'll do that without a fight).

Anyone in a similar situation? A mother's guilt never ends.

 

[startd]

That is hard. I don't have any great advice, but I think you'll work out something that works for your family. You're doing a great job of giving her the benefits of breastmilk overnight, and if it's not a feasible option during the day, then you'll work out a way to keep her fed and happy. I was so upset about expressing and formula top ups initially, but my baby is now breastfed during the day, and takes his first feed (often formula) of the night by bottle from his dad. It works really well for our family. Do what works, and be proud

 

[misspriss]

I would encourage you to try and work on getting her to BF when you get home. Nipple confusion sounds like the culprit here. Are you using slow flow nipples? She is used to the faster flow from the bottles and your breasts take time to let down. The more agitated you get about her crying slows down your let down as well. If you are willing, you may be able to maintain your breastfeeding relationship.

However, if you want to start supplementing, that is a valid option as well. I know that sometimes when you have to work, it is worth it to do what you need to do.