Combining breast feeding and formula?

[SunnySide1992]

Hey everyone, i currently have a 5 week old baby girl. Have been breastfeeding and the odd bottle. I had really bad mastitis so couldnt feed for a few days as i was really poorly. Ive had such mixed emotions with breastfeeding. Im trying so hard to carry on but feel like its effecting my mental health and i cant fully enjoy being a mum. So basically i think i want to move onto full time formula but then should i still pump my milk? Im so mixed in what to do, i love breastfeeding but jusy dont know how much longer i can do it =( any tips for combining but having more bottles?

If you aren’t too worried about continuing bf then crack on.

There’s a fairly big chance the more formula you give the more your supply will dry up, but like I said if you won’t be heartbroken if that happens then give mixed feeding a try.

Pumping is an absolute pita i wouldn't wish on my worst enemy, so I’d give formula, mixed with the odd breastfeed if you want.

Best plan is to stick to one or two specific feeds- so say morning, evening and night feeds breast, the rest formula. Then replace a bf with formula as you want.

Try not to stop bf cold turkey, it’s better for you to taper.

I tried my hardest to combi feed and keep up with breast feeding but my supply dropped and i couldnt contiue. I felt a lot of emotion at the time - saddness and guilt but ultimatley relief! Breastfeeding is hard. You should be proud of your 5 weeks. Your happiness counts for a lot and if formula works for you please dont feel negative about it. My baby is thriving and everyone is happy

Like nomore says, I'd try to gradually drop feeds so that you don't risk getting Mastitis.

Maybe start with the one around 10ish, if you're feeding around then so that you can go to bed early and your DP/DH can give a bottle.