Breast vs bottle

[ShabbyAbby]

I've spent many months telling everybody (midwife, etc.) that I am going to bottle feed baby so that it doesn't get in the way of being prescribed to. But now I am feeling really, really sad about it. I don't know why I'm suddenly so conflicted.
I am likely to be on (quite a lot of) medication for various physical and MH complaints, and it's been very complicated during pregnancy, so I know logically I am one of the people who can take advantage of living in a first world country and bottle feed. I'm aware breastfeeding may mean I can't take the medication I need to manage my life and other kids. I know there are (lots) or other ways to bond with baby. I just feel honestly so sad.

Honestly, don’t. First and last you need to be well to look after your baby. I’ve seen both sides - couldn’t breastfeed my eldest, second one breastfed for 2 years. It’s all fine in the end and even for those who do breastfeed it’s usually a matter of weeks and you’re on to the next stage anyway. Good luck.

I think that's the thing I've started toying with is, yes, I know I can't breastfeed for months and months but maybe the first few weeks would be ok. I don't know if I'm just being illogical and hormonal.

First up, why not contact the breast feeding network to discuss your medication? Lots of medications are covered by their info sheets online.

Once you have an answer about your medication you can think more. You could consider giving the first feed a breast feed for the colostrum and see how you feel after that. There are no right or wrong answers, just take things one feed at a time.

I agree with contacting the breastfeeding network and going from there. If you do end up bottle feeding then fine. Fed is best!

It's the hormones talking! Bottle feeding is so much etter and easier.

I have always planned to give first colostrum. My regular medication will be ok, I think, I thought it wouldn't but I was advised wrong. But it would impact on what new meds and/or as needed medication I could take. I feel really conflicted. I have had to sacrifice a lot on how I wanted things to be with each pregnancy and baby, and know this is my last baby.
I don't know if it's feeding particularly that's upsetting me, or just that that's another thing which I feel I have to compromise on.

Op you're doing your best. If your medication keeps you stable and able to look after your family then that's the best choice for you.

I think the frustrating thing will be if I don't need any extra meds and could have fed. I think I'm just feeling sad for all the compromises I'm having to make on everything. I guess that's a big part of being a parent, though. Being realistic, knowing your limitations, planning ahead and sometimes making difficult decisions. Often feels like I'm wrong whatever I do though.

Ensuring the safety of your mental health is above and beyond the best thing you can do for your baby. Don't look at it as what you could be missing out on but what you are enabling yourself to do with your baby because you will be healthy.