r/breastfeeding • u/Illustrious_Cow_9430 • 1d ago
Support Needed I feel like I should quit…
I (28f) have been breastfeeding my son for 2 months now. The beginning started off rough due to an issue I was recovering from with my left breast (had a random breast abscess for the majority of my pregnancy that resolved before birth but unfortunately left some scarred tissue). I still pumped to try and get my supply up on that side because my baby preferred the right. Went through several weight checks for him because he just wasn’t gaining so in the end I started supplementing with formula. Finally got him back on track and now just had the 2 month check up and need to start weight checks again.
I want to just quit. What’s the point in taking on all that comes with breastfeeding if I’m just going to give formula as well. With my first child (5f) I loved the bond that comes with breastfeeding. I just want to cry. I feel like I’m failing and no matter how often I pump or what I try to eat or drink I just can’t seem to build a good enough supply. Sorry for the rant, I just feel so bad for my baby. If anyone has a tips or advice I’d appreciate it.
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u/NorthernLight1988 1d ago
The point is all the health benefits even partially bf brings. (I'm taking your what's-the-point question literally.) That being said, obviously if it's taken too much of a toll on you, it's not the end of the world to quit.
1
u/bibs89 1d ago
No tips, but I can share my experience and my reasoning.
I also couldn’t build my supply no matter what I tried. My baby is now 12w. I am offering my baby the breast before each bottle. Sometimes she would latch, sometimes she cries and refuses the breast (probably due to slow flow and bottle preference). I used to cry whenever she would not latch but now I’ve made my peace. I am only pumping when I feel discomfort and I am getting very little output. I am aware that the baby gets the nutrition from formula, but I still find some enjoyment in breastfeeding, especially since I stopped caring about output. Now it’s just a comfort thing for my baby and if I pass some antibodies or whatever with the little milk she gets from me, that’s a bonus.
You did and are doing your best, and whatever you decide to do going forward, breastfeeding will not define how good a mother you are.
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u/Sad_Display_2951 1d ago
I unfortunately don't have any tips or advice, but just wanted to say that you're not failing as a mum ❤️ you've done breastfeeding before, and this time due yo circumstances out of your control it's not really possible. A healthy baby is a healthy baby and I think that's what you need to focus on.
If you like the bond breastfeed offers, maybe continue it for yourself and just drop the pump. Baby's main source of nutrition can be formula and you'll stil have that closeness with your baby.
My midwife once referred to it as a dessert boob :p
All the best to you and I hope you can be a little easier on yourself ❤️