I support breastfeeding. I support breastfeeding mothers. I support breastfeeding mothers in Target, in Starbucks or out in their car because they like more privacy. I tried breastfeeding my first child and it didn't go well. It may have been better if I'd stuck it out, but after nearly a month, neither of us were getting it and it was better for my sanity to switch to formula. It hurt and I hated, abhorred even, pumping. I felt like a cow at a milking machine. Poor cows. I've debated whether or not to try with my next child. Maybe it would be easier. Maybe he'd be a natural and he and I would just get it down, right out of the gate. Or maybe it would be too much stress on me with a new baby and a small (very small) toddler. I take medications that may be contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers. I NEED sleep to function, mentally. Bottle feeding allows my husband take over some of the night feedings and allows me to sleep longer stretches. (We had it worked out down to a science with each of us able to get 5-6 hour stretches each night by dividing up the schedule and going to bed at different times).
With formula, I know exactly how much food he is getting. That was a huge issue for me while trying to breastfeed. I had no idea how much he was eating - pumping did give me a little more peace of mind, but again - cow.
I have many reasons for not wanting to breastfeed. I know breast is best for baby. I also know that by giving formula, I'm feeding my baby, which is the most important thing.
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