Can my ex stop me breastfeeding for overnight stays?
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@Annem thank you! 🥰 I completely appreciate the point re his relationship pros outweighing the benefits of breastfeeding but this point is subjective, as you could raise the same point at 6 months, 7 months, 18 months etc. So I don’t think there’s a right or wrong answer which is why it’s so difficult. He also sees him really frequently so in terms of it impacting the baby’s best interests, I don’t think his well-being or relationship with his dad will be impacted as he doesn’t live far and he can see him as many days / nights / mornings as he wants to. Re pumping - I’m limited what I can pump inbetween feeds because I’m essentially just producing the right amount for the baby and not extra xx
We also cosleep (have done since day one) and I feed him to sleep and he feeds for comfort when he wakes through the night so I just don’t know if it’s necessary to stop him doing this xx
https://breastfeeding.support/custody-and-breastfeeding/# I’ve been reading this also which is quite interesting x
Are you looking at what your legal position is because your ex has raised concerns or feels differently to you? Realise it must be tough thinking about this as you ultimately just want to be a brilliant mother and do what's best for your baby, but if he feels upset by this - then his feelings have to be considered too. It's his baby as well. When my partner and I disagree about a decision regarding our child, we try to meet halfway, especially if one of us feels upset. I know that's tricky when it's an ex etc, but it's just remembering that his voice should also be heard when it comes to decisions on how your baby is raised. ❤️❤️ I'll shut up now. 😂 You asked for legal advice and I'm just sharing my personal view.
I’m not a lawyer, can’t give legal advice but happy to share my experience. Went through court system, ex didn’t get overnight stays until DD had finished feeding (she was 2.5 years). The magistrate said they couldn’t remove a breastfed child from the mother overnight.
@Emma thanks Emma, appreciate this 💗 how recently was this if you don’t mind me asking?
It was a long time ago. About 12 years
Super interested in the legal advice you get here (it's worth contacting a family lawyer as some of them offer free advice initially). I've no idea what the actual legal recourse is but is it worth considering the pros and cons for a balanced view? If your baby has a good relationship with their father, does strengthening the father child bond and allowing dad more responsibilities not outweigh the benefits of breast milk longer term? If I was your child, I won't remember that you breast fed me, but I will remember the memories with my dad. On the night the baby is not with you, surely you can just pump instead. I'm confused about the point regarding milk supply. 3 ounces in 2 hours pumping? With that little amount is your baby drinking enough on your breast to put on weight if they are exclusively breast fed? I'm confused about this part.