Is anyone pregnant (or has been recently) and knows that they probably won't BF?

[dottytablecloth]

I feel disappointed to be admitting and talking about this but I wondered if anyone else is (or has been) in the same situation?

I'm currently 18 weeks pregnant with number 2. I didn't bf my first child and I know that I probably won't bf this one either. I really have nothing at all against bf, I admire people who do it, I think it's fabulous but I just feel that I wouldn't be able to do it.

I suffer quite badly from neck and upper back pain and I just imagine this would be really hard to BF through. I'll be having a section so I imagine by the time baby comes I'll probably be in enough pain.

I am really out off by mums who admit that even when BF works really well it's still painful for the first few weeks.

I wonder how I will cope with my toddler son and try to establish BF? I read alone post who said that a feeding sessions can last hours- how on earth do people manage to do this when they have other children to look after?

Just wondering as although I'm very pro choice, I do feel guilty for the fact that more than likely I won't BF.

Don't feel guilty! It's your body, your life, your baby, your choice.

I had a crap time trying to BF my first baby - loooong story - and we mix fed (mostly FF). I had PND, felt crap about it for ages etc.

I've just had my second baby. I gave it a go again, it started off well then started going tits up again. The decision to switch to formula was much easier to make this time, and you know what, health care professionals have been nothing but supportive, especially because they know my history. I feel less stressed, and I know it's the right decision for me this time. And if I'm honest, I'm also kinda relieved because I'm getting some sleep and feeds aren't taking ages, every couple of hours, as BFing was in the beginning. I have a 4 year old to look after too. Sure, you have to organise bottles and stuff but I've never found that difficult.

I would see how you feel at the time. Don't pressure yourself to make a concrete decision right now, just go with how you're feeling at the time, and you can always change your mind - either way - later on.

If I have another only if we win the lottery, alas I'd give it a go again, because i know that BFing isn't always difficult - I've got friends that have been lucky to have no problems damn them but I also know that there's nothing wrong with FF too.

Hi Dotty

Interesting responses on this thread. Currently BF 9 week old DD because I'm too damn lazy to sterilise and make up bottles all day and night!

Has a CS and lost a load of blood which meant my milk didnt come in properly and I had to take meds to help. All is fine now.

We combine feed...my boobs don't give up any milk to an expressor so DD has a bottle of formula a day...to give me a break and so she will take a bottle.

You do sound to me as though you are intrigued about feeding LO yourself. My advice to you is not to listen to anyone but your instinct. BF hurts for some mums, FF right for others etc..,there is a lot of support available should you decide to give it a go. You might really enjoy it.

I find the whole experience wonderful, but it can be full on...hence why we do both.

Good luck with whatever you decide. You have a while yet to make your mind up.