Unsure whether to stop breastfeeding to improve chances of ttc

[Fagin99]

I've just had my third failed month of ttc baby #2, which I'm obviously upset about. I know that's not long in trying (dd took five months) but I'm very late thirties and aware of time.

I'm still breastfeeding 15-month-old twice a day (upon waking and before bed - never any more than this) but I can't decide if I should stop altogether in case it might be stopping my chances of ttc? I've had regular periods for ten months, I get positive OPK tests and ovulation pain mid-cycle, so I'd like to think I'm ovulating, but I know there's still a chance that breastfeeding could be interfering with things.

Has anyone else any personal experience with this? I'd hate to stop breastfeeding if it's not going to make any difference anyway (but appreciate there's no way of knowing either way).
Thanks in advance xx

Ah that's ok! Just need to throw everything at it this cycle. Waiting for this period to finish and then we go again. Very worthwhile point about fertility increasing more and more each month too.

I'm not ready but I think my mind's made up - I just need advice on how to go about cutting out these final few feeds really. And I guess someone experienced to listen as it's going to be a tough transition. I'm so proud we've made it to nearly 2.5 years though and it'll all be worth it if we can give her a little sibling.

Wishing you all the luck and baby dust on this TWW! Please keep us posted x

I was in a similar situation. I was 36 when I had my first, and was keen to become pregnant again quickly. However, I didn't want to give up breastfeeding.

As soon as my periods started I checked whether I was ovulating, which I was, so I decided there was no point in stopping.

I think the main problem for me was that my daughter didn't sleep well. I had broken nights and was completely exhausted. At 18 months she started sleeping through the night and I almost immediately became pregnant.

Good luck!

Just a little update from me. Decided I'm going to do my last feed this weekend. We've been going 2.5 years so it's the right time. I've bought the Clearblue Fertility Monitor as I'm determined this month! From what I've read it can take a while for it to get to know your cycles but will give it a go and see where we get to! Feels like a positive step. How are you doing @Fagin99 ?

Thinking of you @secondtimelucky87. I imagine this weekend will be full of mixed emotions. Two-and-half years is an impressive length though, and you should feel proud. I hope you are feeling OK. Let us know how it goes and good luck with the fertility monitoring.

We had another unsuccessful month, but I'm not surprised really. I was quite unwell for a couple of weeks and I'm not sure my body had any resources left! So, we try again. I think I will look to stop breastfeeding too if we don't get lucky in the next few months xx