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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

decision about breastfeeding

57 replies

juju283 · 14/01/2014 14:47

Okay so I have decided I do not want to breastfeed. I am obviously well aware of the benefits to thebaby and myself but my reason for choosing not to is because I had an eating disorder when I was younger. It was resolve but being pregnant has brought some of it back and I am constantly worrying about whether or not I am eating enough for my baby. I try really hard but I struggle to get the 300 calories extra in a day. I know when you breast feed you should have 500 calories extra and for me I would constantly worry that I wasn't doing this and would fear that my baby was not getting enough milk. I feel that although breast feeding is best ,in my case it is better that I know that my baby is eating and I haven't got to worry about what I eat reducing my chances of pnd too. Does this make me selfish or a terrible person for making this decision?

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SweetPea86 · 15/01/2014 20:08

I don't think you selfish at all. I'm pregnant with my first and I'm going to give breast feeding a go BUT I'm not putting my self under pressure if I can't I can't.

Most people I know decieded not to breast feed. Each to their own :)

MrsRV · 15/01/2014 20:13

I'm not breastfeeding this time. not even going to try. happy mum = happy baby in my opinion!

Kelly1814 · 15/01/2014 20:14

The thought of breast feeding repulsed me.

I was forced into it by nurses when in hospital and spent the first few weeks of DDs life sobbing and feeling so guilty as I loathed it.

Then I switched to FF and my whole life changed for the better.

Don't do anything you don't want to.

strawberrypie · 15/01/2014 20:31

I think there may be evidence that bfing reduces the chances of suffering from PND? I know your situation is pretty specific but I just wanted to mention that, good luck with whatever you decide to do :)

Hubbythecatandme · 15/01/2014 20:57

Juju, my friends with children have had a lot of trouble with the "breastapo". By all means do what is best for you. Your baby will be happy with a mum who is following her intuitions, feelings and listening to her own needs in terms of well being xx

Chunderella · 15/01/2014 22:19

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

GiraffesAndButterflies · 16/01/2014 04:57

Well said Chunderella, couldn't agree more.

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