To breastfeed or not?

I’ve been trying to decide whether or not to breastfeed. I’m a little tight for money so I can see the financial benefits of breastfeeding, but also have history of mental illness and have heard breastfeeding can be really hard on you mentally. Can you shed any light on what you did and pros and cons?

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3 days ago

@Janine what good advice! I second how hard it is in the beginning and I know how I struggled. I get a little sad that I know that our special "thing" will soon come to an end but I can say that I gave it a good shot!

3 days ago

Try and of it doesn't work out you can express. Still saving you lots of money x

3 days ago

I knew I wanted to breastfeed, 1. Cheaper 2. To bond 3. It’s the best thing for your baby! (No disrespect at all to people who choose formula!) I’ve been on antidepressants for nearly 5 years, my HV checked in regularly and made sure I had support around me. The first few weeks breastfeeding were HARD, it feels like it’s never ending and it was painful, emotions are all over the place but I didn’t give up. It feels so natural now and I’m so glad and proud of myself that I stuck with it. I would suggest you give it a go and if you decide it’s not you for that’s 100% okay. Your health and well-being is just as important as your baby’s. Almost 6 months in and don’t plan to stop 🤍

3 days ago

I struggle with my mental health too so I shared some of these concerns but to be honest it was much easier than I thought in many ways. I think breastfeeding requires a little bit of education beforehand but if you’re able to do that, it takes so much off the worries you would otherwise encounter. I highly recommend reading the positive breastfeeding book, it was such a down to earth account of breastfeeding from day one. Also it doesn’t have to be all or nothing, we combi fed so that also took pressure off when I needed to leave baby with dad

3 days ago

Being a Mum is hard, whichever feeding option you use. Breastfeeding is such a beautiful time for you to bond with your baby, it’s something only you can do and it’s incredible how your body works to feed your baby. With all that said, it isn’t for everyone and I think you can only make this decision when you’re in the situation. Be open to both options, or even combi feeding. I would personally recommend trying breastfeeding and see how you get on, just don’t put any pressure on yourself either way. As long as baby is fed that’s what matters ultimately. You’ll do great!