Formula or Breastfeeding

If breast feeding hurts, you're doing something wrong. Most often pain occurs when you try to get the baby to release the breast when they either don't want to OR they fall asleep. The best method that worked for me every time is to gently insert a finger into the corner of the baby's mouth to break the seal and then slowly slide the baby away from the breast (slightly sideways if pos. not straight down).
IF you get an infection, it will hurt, but not everyone does. I was totally clear with my first child and got only a small one with my second.
I would contact a lactation consultant in your area who can work with you in person to overcome any hurdles you might face. It's not only cheaper, but healthier for the baby to breast feed.
You'll be glad you did.
A.

1 mom found this helpful

I think that it is great that you are considering giving it a try. It is fabulous if it works out for you. I have been lucky enough to bf my 3 little ones and in my situations it was just simple and natural. In my case the babies just understood what to do and went for it. My supply was never a problem (except too much at times). The only time I really got any discomfort was when they'd go longer between feedings and I'd get full. That is easy to resolve by pumping or hand expressing and then you have some milk for saving for another time. As they got older (I nursed my first for 13 months, my second 19 and my third is 9.5 months now and still nursing) there were a few nips with new teeth as they experimented with new feelings. That can hurt, but they can learn to stop quickly and that is much later when they have teeth.

My third was my biggest baby and I had a little bit of pain at the beginning of feedings early on. I have heard more difficulties with bigger babies. Your milk takes a few days to come in and I think those bigger babies are more anxious for it to do so. They can be a bit more aggressive at the breast while waiting for it. The Lanolin creme, changing holds on the baby and being extrememly careful that the baby latches on properly can all correct/minimize that though. I found that I had the most control to properly postion my third in a football hold.

It really is wonderful and makes your life easier really. I couldn't imagine dealing with bottles all of the time at this point. You don't haveto get up in the middle of the night - it's pretty simple if you can get a rhythm down. One thing I have read many places is the importance to relax while nursing. I definitely agree. When I need to pump to make a bottle, I can have so much more success if I do some deep breaths and just tune out any stress around me. As I feel the stress wash away, I also feel the "let-down" begin and pumping is a breeze. If possible - especially when beginning - try to set yourself up in a quiet, peaceful, happy place to nurse your little one. You want to be comfortable and have a drink (THIS IS THE SINGLE THING I'VE FOUND TO INCREASE MY MILK - DRINK AS MUCH WATER/JUICE AS YOU CAN.). This is your special time with your little one. It will pay off to get things established. Once you and your baby have figured it out, it requires much less effort. GOOD LUCK!

1 mom found this helpful

Hi E.,
Congrats on the new little one. I definately recommend breastfeeding. I bf my first for 2.5 months and my second for
1 year. I worked when I had my first so I didn't last very long but I did see even with him, that his immune system was stronger than my 2 friends babies that were born w/in 3 weeks of each other. Neither of them breastfed their babes.
I only had minimal discomfort with either and after giving birth it was hardly considered pain in comparison!
The nutritional factors far outweigh formula although I believe its as close as it can get to the real thing. God designed Mothers to be able to give their babies exactly what they need nutritionally. He knows what He's doing, try to
take advantage of this great gift.
Good luck and God Bless!

E.~
Please don't worry so much about the pain you hear about. Every breastfeeding relationship is different, depending on the mother and the child. My daughter is 20 mos. old, and down to 1-2 feedings a day. I know I will have many fond memories of our sweet times together breastfeeding. Our bond is so close. I don't like doing dishes, so I know I would gave griped about washing bottles all the time. That would have been more painful to me (not to mention the cost of formula) than the small amount of time that I had sore nipples. The health benefits are tremendous, for both baby and mother. Did you know that it helps prevent breast cancer for you? I pray that everything goes well for you!
~C.

E.-
I felt the same way about being hesitant and worrying about the pain. I knew I wanted to try so I went to a breastfeeding class and read up on it. The best advice I got is that it takes a least a few weeks to get used to it so try to stick out the first month and then decide if you can keep going. It gets a lot easier. My goal at first was 1 month, then 3, then 6 and I ended up being able to breastfeed until 1. Good luck!

Do you have a WIC program in your area if you do check in to that. They will help you with formula for the baby if you decide not to breast feed. You said you just wanted to do it for the six weeks that you are home but that is when you and your child start to build that bond with each other and you might have a hard time leaving the baby although you can pump the milk into a bottle for him once the six weeks is over. Since you do not like pain I would go with the WIC program. They follow you child until he or she is five years old. Not only do the help you with the formula but also with cereal and juices.

A. E.

Hi E.! Congratulations on your upcoming birth! I wish you the best with that, and with "starting over" again after 11 years! Wow!

I think it's great that you're considering breastfeeding this time - good for you! I have three children that I breastfed (one is nursing right at this moment!:) and it is an amazing experience. If you can do it for any length of time, it is so good for the baby, and for you, and really mutually rewarding, for health benefits, closeness and developing an instinctive relationship with your child. I don't know because I have never bought formula, but from what I hear it is not cheap!

Regarding breastfeeding being painful, it should not be. If it is painful, something needs to be adjusted, like the baby's latch, where they are positioned on the nipple, and if your breasts do become sore in the beginning, there are creams you can use until the discomfort goes away. But on the whole, it is a very natural process that women have done since the beginning of time, so if you approach it as though it will be easy, it is more likely to be. (It can be challenging at first as you figure out what to do and find a rhythm, but after that, it becomes second nature).

If you have a local La Leche League chapter, i recommend attending a meeting, even while you are still pregnant. they have been so helpful to so many mothers, especially in the early days and weeks when everything seems so overwhelming. Here is a link to their website and you just enter your state to find local chapters: http://www.llli.org/WebUS.html

I hope this helps....good luck, you'll do just fine!
Love, M.

Hi E.-
I have a 12 year old son that was breastfed. I also have a low tolerance for pain, but didn't have any serious issues with the nursing. Initially I was a little too full, which was kind of achy but subsided with cold compresses and some pumping. I also once had a cracked nipple, but that too was soothed after using some nipple cream. Other than those two minor incidences, nursing was great! It found it to be very relaxing. I wouldn't worry about it- you can try it and the worst that happens is you switch to formula.

Good Luck!
C. K.

Breast milk is best. See how you do. It is sore for the first few days and then it is better after that. There are creams out there for the nipples if they get sore. I could not breast feed so i bought the generic version of my son's formulas at BJ's. I got a three pound can for $20. I know SAMS club carries something similar with the DHA in it. It is the gerneric for Enfamil Lipil with Iron and the DHA. As long as the child does not have allergies. i do not see a problem with using the generic version of products including diapers. It saves a lot of money. I think having a membership to a BJ's,SAMS or Costco is worth it. You can bulk,generic and in bulk and in the long run it is a lot more economical. My son is seven months old and is doing well.

Breastfeeding is great- I breastfed all 3 of my daughters for about a year each. It's easy, free, and great for baby. You should go for it!

Yes, it will hurt at first. For the first few weeks, your nipples will be sore. Your toes will curl everytime that baby latches on. You can prepare yourself for this however. Start now- scrub your nipples with a wash cloth when you bathe- everytime. They'll toughen up a little. It will still hurt a bit- but not as much or for as long.

Just keep breastfeeding once you've started. In a few weeks the pain is gone and you'll be glad you did it.

The only thing that hurt me was the first few days when I was really full. The baby nursing didn't hurt at all. Just try to relax, give yourself and the baby time to get used to it (you're both going to be learning). I really believe that the baby can sense your nervousness, so just try to stay positive. Don't give up too soon, but if it really ends up that it's not working for you, then you do have backup (formula). Good luck!

Good for you for researching this issue, and making an informed decision!! :)
I had my first when I was 17 and breastfed him. I, too, started all over again and am bf-ing my second. I'm not going to to extol all of the virtues of bfing, because I'm sure you have heard most of them (and there isn't enough room on the screen!) I will say this : BREASTFEEDING DOESN"T HURT AT ALL IF DONE PROPERLY. Sorry to shout, but I need to emphasize this point. All you need to do is read some good books (A Nursing Mother's Companion, "So that's what they're for!") I could send you a list...and have a great support system. Having a lactation consultant or La Leche League volunteer to help is great, too.
Put the health benefits and bonding aside, bf-ing is so MUCH EASIER. Its great that in the first few months in the middle of the night, you just stick the baby on and go back to sleep. Now my daughter is almost 6 months, and its just so convenient...no bottles to sterilize, tote around..never having to worry about running out, FREE..etc. The cost is a big one for us...we have a huge mortgage and just can't afford to bottle feed..my girlfriend says it cost her thousands all together to formula feed her daughter.
Anyhoo, hope this helps..in the end, it IS your decision...just don't listen to horror stories from people who weren't doing it properly...its just not the case!
Good luck!!
ps. If you need to talk or need any more info, feel free to email me. I've helped others with their "latch" and would be willing to help you as well when the time comes...:)
pps The nipples bleeding thing is a myth that it is just a regular part of bfing. NO!! Whoever ever had that happen was doing everything completely wrong, and did it wrong for some time for that to happen..again, if done right,NO PAIN AT ALL!!!Here is an analogy:
To get from point A to point B, one could learn to walk from one point to another, or one could not bother and attempt to crawl scraping one's knees on the sidewalk as they go. Of course that would hurt...its just a matter of "learning to walk" (and its a lot easier than that!)

Breastfeeding does not hurt. The first couple of days your nipples are sensitive. You just need to get some Lansinoh nipple cream for a few days and it should be fine. It only hurts when the baby is not latched on properly. It is also important to get the baby on the breast as soon as possible after he or she comes out. Even though she is not getting any milk yet, it starts the process for both of you and gets her used to it. It is a truly amazing experience and does wonders for you and the baby. There are very few TRUE cases of women who actually can't breastfeed. Any amount you can do it is great for the baby. Get yourself a breast pump and you can continue when you go back to work. I have had a great experience with breastfeeding so feel free to contact me when the time comes (or whenever) if you have any concerns. I think it is an awesome thing and you should at least give it a try.

Get in contact with your local La Leche League. They are an invaluable resource. They have monthly meetings and can help you out a lot. I have breast feed both of my children. I will admit it isn't the most comfortable thing at first but you get used to it. Also once you get the baby latched on properly it doesn't hurt. I would actually fall asleep when my first one started to nurse. I had a painful condition with my nipples too. You will get thru it just hang in there!! Also you should go on to all of the formula websites and become a member. They will send you free formula samples and coupons so even if you decide not to breast feed you can save some money. *** Also I forgot to mention that with my second son I applied Lanisoh lotion to my nipples in the last trimester and I do not seem to be experience the problems that I had with my first.

I have to agree w/Emma...I also had a "nazi" lactation consultant. My milk was slow to come in, so initially is wasn't meeting my son's calorie needs. He got so tired that he didn't have the energy to BF. He went 9 hours w/o eating when we brought him home. We called the lactation consultants numerous times & the said just keep trying, he'll eat when he's hungry. (He was starving). My husband finally decided it was crazy & gave him a bottle of formula. We went to the ped the next day & they said we did the right thing. They told us we needed to get his calorie load back up, so continue to bottle feed for a few days. Once he was full he had the patience to learn how to BF. After that it was 3 months before he would take a bottle again. He preferred the breast. Now at 6 1/2 months he'll take either equally well. So I think the whole nipple confusion thing that they tout is BS. I think you can do both, this way you get the benifits of BF, but mom can also get a break (you'll need it every once in a while).
I love BF my son & plan to BF my next child. It was a little unconfortable in the begining, but worth it. (I will be supplementing w/formula in the begining until my milk comes in).

Breast feeding does hurt at first, but it lasts for only a few days. I've read that using a producut like Baby Orajel on your nipples just before a feeding will numb you just a little bit. And it's safe for baby because its made for babies. I breast fed my first 2 children and intend to do so again w/ my 3rd baby - due any day now! I loved the experience and am looking forward to doing it again. I would encouraeg you to at least try it. If doesn't work out for you, then at least you tried!

I won't lie to you, it can be uncomfortable in the beginning but it doesn't hold a candle to the pain of childbirth. Some advice I have is to take a breastfeeding class if one is available in your area. This may sound strange but I found it very helpful in answering all my questions, and they give you a book to take home. Also, the lactation consultants in the hospital were wonderful. I wouldn't have stuck with it without their support. They will help you with the baby's latch, positioning, and provide support. To also help with discomfort, I pumped regularly, used lanolin cream, and took warm showers. In my opinion, the latch is the most important thing. If you and the baby can get that down, it is not painful at all. Best of luck!!

nursing was very easy for me and very convenient and free no warming is perfect every time...but if you decide on formula see if you qualify for WIC the are greatand will give you free formula...if not start collecting coupons now and use grocery stores that have baby bucks services

I'm all about breastfeeding! I would say at the very least try it. For me, I don't remember it every really hurting. At first my nipples got sore but nothing terrible. I loved being able to snuggle with my baby and have him nurse- it really is a wonderful time to spend with them. Not to mention I knew that I could never get up in the middle of the night and warm a bottle from the fridge. With breastfeeding I barely woke up to stumble to the crib to get him then lay back down, let him latch on and would fall back to sleep. It worked out great for our family and you should really give it a try!
www.momtomombiz.com

I've nursed 3 kids now and STILL needed advise and help. I found the most help from Debbie with the WIC program. She's in the Kittanning office. Call 1-800-WIC-WINS and check to see if you can get it, great program. Regardless of whether you get it or not though, ask to be transferred to consult with Debbie or set up an appointment to get more information. Don't forget about losing weight along with nursing being cheaper and good for the baby. I've lost 45 pounds since nursing this time. WIC advocates for breastfeeding but also gives formula on the checks if you don't nurse. Good luck and don't feel back about the age difference with your kids. I have a 19 year old son, a 6 year old son and a 7 month old daughter and I'm 38!

At first it may hurt. But as you get used to it, and the baby latches better, it won't be bad. You just have to find the right positions for you and the baby. Good luck!!

Hi E., I have three girls myself and I bottle fed two and decided to try nursing the third one for a few different reasons. Every one of my friends were into nursing and said how great and easy it was...how much cheeper and better for the baby....there are a ton of really great reasons to at least give it a try. So, I did. Here are my suggestions:
1. Make sure that your doctor knows you want to nurse and that this is your FIRST time.
2. Make sure when you go to the hospital the Nurses know that it is your FIRST time nursing. They will assume that since you already have one child you know what you are doing. Make sure you don't fall into that trap.
3. Ask lots of questions before, during and after you have the baby. Ask your doctor, the nurses, any one you know that has a baby and is nursing.
4. Buy lots of disposal as well as washable bra shields. You will need them!
5. Buy properly fitted nursing bras now and get comfortable with them.
6. Talk to your daughter about it. Make sure she is comfortable with your decison as well, until you are used to doing it she might get to see more of your brests at home than she wants to.
7. Get a couple of playtex nursers so that dad or big sister can still feed the baby at least once a day. You'll appreciate the break and it is always good "just in case". Once your milk comes in you can pump and freeze it for up to 3 or 6 months. (Make sure that you have them give their bottle at the same time every day and you are not in the area or room at the time.)
These are just a few of the things I learned along the way! Sure, nursing itself can be a challange, but it is better for the baby in the long run if you are comfortable with your decision and ready to do it. If you have any doubts, just commit to trying it for a set peroid of time (at least 6 weeks or so.) I nursed my daughter for about 9 weeks... I don't and won't ever regret trying it, but it wasn't right for me so we went to formula. The pain isn't with the actual nursing, it is all about cracked or chapped nipples which can be prevented if you know about it in advance. When your milk "comes in" your breasts can feel rock hard and uncomfortable of course...but as you both learn that eases. You go through a certian amount of that anyway, no matter how you decide to feed your baby. Do whatever you feel most comfortable with...if you are not happy and comfortable the baby won't be either!! Congrats and best wishes!!

You are in the same position I was in. I'm a mom of a 12 year old girl and I have an 18-month old. I had my first daughter when I was 18 and nursed her until until she was 18 months old. I am currently nursing the 18 month old. Breastfeeding for me was the most precious time spent with both girls. It was uncomfortable at first but gets easier. They have lactation specialists at the hospital and will show you proper latch-on techniques as well as different ways to hold the baby while nursing that will help make it more comfortable. Some moms swear by the Boppy - I didn't like it. Please give it a shot, it's so beneficial for both you and baby! Good luck!

I m pro breastfeeding if you have the option. I think that the benefits definitely out weigh the negatives. I breastfed both of my babies. I was only able to BF my son for 3 mos bc of surgery but my daughter bf for 9 mos.
It is a bit hard for the first 2 mos but once you get over the hump it becomes much easier than bottles. You don;t have bottles to clean you don't have to buy formula, and you don't have to carry around a container of formula.
As far as the pain goes, your boobs are going to fill up and be uncomfortable for a few days either way. This didn't bother me too much compared to the uncomfort of the epiosiotomy (but were all different).
Since you have to go back to work why not try supplementing but definitely give bf a try. I would aslo suggest pumping and freezing milk so the basby gets as much breast milk as possible. Another bonus to bf aside from how easy it is, it burn calories like crazy. Its worth trying it bc its so good for the baby.

Hey E.,

I breastfed my now 9 month old for two weeks. I gotta tell you that it hurt like hell -- at least for me. I remember the hairs on the back of my neck would stand up every time I heard my daughter's hunger cry. Yikes. With that said, though, it started to hurt less on one boob than the other. Don't know why; it just did. I found that the one it hurt less on produced more milk... and that's probably because I favored that ta-ta more than the other -- which wasn't a good idea because then I just perpetuated the problem of having less milk in my less favorite boob. Anyways... now that I'm nine months past the beginning, I realize that I really didn't give it a chance. Breastfeeding is time consuming and yes, can be painful (however, I do have a girlfriend who swears it didn't bother/hurt her). Bottomline: if you want to breastfeed, you need to be patient. You'll swear that your baby just finished "feeding at Mom's" and is ready to eat again! Your boob will barely be back in your bra before it's another wah, wah, wah!!! I do STRONGLY recommend that you get some Lansinoh (sp?) cream and apply it after feeding your little one. I used it each and every time. Granted, my husband started making fun of me... walking around the house one day with Vaseline all over his lips. But I digress. By using the Lansinoh, I avoided chapped, bleeding nipples. Watch out though, as it will stain your clothes. (At least that's what I found.) I wish you lots of luck. Again, just be patient with yourself. Although my little Marissa is healthy and strong, I did miss having her close to me like that. There's something to be said about waking up in the middle of the night, in the absolute quiet, you and your baby alone, he/she so close to you. It's precious. But if you find that it's not for you, that's okay, too! Seriously. Don't let anyone make you feel bad about your decision. There are some real intolerant wackjobs out there with their own agendas. For example, I've had people "pray" for me that I was able to breastfeed. Whatever! Some people even have the nerve to make inappropriate comments and/or make you feel bad. Your son/daughter will still love you love you love you regardless. Good luck!

T. :)

Hi E.! Wow, this is a hot button topic; you're sure to get a LOT of responses! So here's mine: do whatever feels right. I breastfed all 3 of mine (but not for the whole year recommended). The first one was the worst because neither of us knew what we were doing. But the worst part of it was the lactation specialist. I know that their job is to encourage mothers to nurse, but this woman was a nazi. When I brought Danny home on a Saturday, I started pumping right away to at least get my supply going. Sunday morning he wouldn't nurse and I was so upset that I gave him the bottled milk. He drank it right down and slept for 3 hrs straight. The next day the "nazi" called and asked how I was, and when I told her what I did she chastised me and told me that I had ruined him for breastfeeding and that I should come in for a consultation (at $50 an hour!!). To make this long story short, I hung up on her, did some research through books and the internet, and with my husband's support to do whatever I wanted, I got him to nurse for 6 1/2 months. After that, yes it did hurt because his teeth came in and he thought that I was beef jerky! Breast milk is best for children and for the moms (lots of health benefits down the road) and it's FREE, but nursing isn't for everyone. Formula is expensive, but the stringent guidelines that the companies have to follow make it an excellent choice for moms who choose not to or can't breastfeed. Go with your heart, your wallet, or anything else that helps you to feel good about your decision. I have lots more advice on this subject, so reply back if you're interested. Good luck!!
E.

Hi E.,
Don't go into breastfeeding thinking it will hurt. Honestly, I just went into it knowing that everything would be okay. Granted, I got frustrated and nervous the first few days after my first (a son) was born, but I just kept going. In the hospital and the first night we had Jacob home he wouldn't eat much and I was nervous he'd starve, but that was not and is not what will happen. Here's a tip, it won't hurt if you really get your nipple into your baby's mouth. Use your newborn's reflexes to get his/her mouth wide open and stick that boob right in as far as you can. Honestly, this might sound silly or weird, but it worked for me. It's important that the baby has most of your areola in his/her mouth or it might hurt. The only time you should have pain is if your baby is not latched on correctly. It helps to use lanolin too. I used it after every feeding and you don't have to worry about wiping it off your breasts because it will not harm the baby. Don't be afraid to move your baby into a good position and put his/her mouth where it needs to be. Remember, that baby has never breastfed before. They are just as new to it as you are and it can be very frustrating when you know your baby is hungry and they just don't seem to know what to do. Well, they don't! We aren't like puppies who just instinctually go to the teet. You have to teach your baby and using the reflex really helps get it going. Stroke your baby's cheek (this maks them root - rooting reflex) and he/she should turn their head and open wide. Be ready with your nipple and position your little one right on for a good, healthy meal. So many people told me it was difficult and painful and I read that it can be tough, but for some reason I didn't buy into what I read and heard. I thought, "Hey, this is the only way women could feed their children before bottles and formula were ever invented, so it must be the way to go!". I do believe that it is. I wish you all the best. I have full confidence that you can handle the breastfeeding. GO FOR IT!!!
All the best,
J.

You have to do what is best for you. Shouldn't just be what is the cheapest thing or easiest thing to do. Shouldn't feel bad one way or the other either and no one should push you to do one way or the other.

I bottle fed 5 kids and they are all perfectly healthy, athletic and on the average to thin side of weight.

There are pros and cons to both.

seems enough been done on breast feeding so i'll say some on bottle.

Yes costs more, but then anyone can feed the child at any time. Maybe Mom has health issues that not good for baby. bottles, nipples all can be done in DW now and even that not necessary anymore. Good washing. Don't have to worry what you are eating, drinking or medications your on. Dad can be more involved in feedings and bondings as well as the big sister. Got to remember her as well, meaning all the one on one time with baby, need to give same amt of time to her as well.

I would encourage you to breast feed. I think the more reading and research you do ahead of time, the better off you will be. I breast fed both my children and experienced very little pain. I would recomend the "Womanly Art of Breast Feeding" to help prepare you. It gives a lot of tips and information to help you know what to expect.

I am sorry you (only) heard that breastfeeding hurts. I am sure it does hurt some women, but I had no significant problems. Your hospital should have a lactation consultant who you should be able to contact even before you have your baby. I wasn't doing it quite correctly immediately, and two nurses at the hospital were really unpleasant about that. That really surprised me; we were fine before too long.

Good luck to you. I think it would be wonderful if you could get it to work for you. It may not turn out to be all that difficult.

/J.

Use a lactation consultant. There should be one at the hospital and some hospitals have classes. It REALLY hurt for the first 6 weeks but now it is so easy. If I can make it then anyone can. You just have to have the patience to teach the little one how to suction without tearing off the nipple. But some people do great from the first day......

Hi E.! Congratulations on starting over again. That's very exciting. I have two boys and breastfed both (for about two years each) and would never trade for anything in the world the wonderful bonding experience of breastfeeding :-). I'm not saying that you can't bond with your little one if you do decide to bottle feed, but I do think that breastfeeding creates a much stronger bond because they realize that the milk is coming from your body and it is specifically designed by nature for each individual baby. How wonderful is that! You do need to make sure that you eat a healthy diet and drink lots of fluids that do not contain caffeine while breastfeeding though. As for the pain, I feel that the first two weeks were the worst with both of my boys, but after that it was a breeze. Also, you don't have to worry about making bottles, taking them with you when you leave home and keeping them cold. Not to mention washing them and the expense of formula! It is so much easier for the middle of the night feedings too. No bottles to warm, already at the perfect temperature!

I would definitely suggest seeing a lactation consultant/specialist. They usually have a RN in the hospital that can come and help you at least for the first couple of feedings. The key is to find the right position or hold for the baby. If the baby feels comfortable and can latch on properly, than you should be very comfortable too. You may want to ask the LC what she would suggest for sore and or cracked nipples. That was the worst part for me, but as I said above, it didn't last long at all. Totally worth it! ;-)

I will say that my two boys are extremely close to Mom even at the ages of 12 and 14. I strongly feel that breastfeeding played a huge role in this.

Good Luck!

S.

It's great that you want to try breastfeeding to benefit your baby! Don't put a lot of pressure on yourself: you need to do what's right for you and your baby.

I breastfed for a year with my baby, and it was great - I'd never do formula. That said, you have to realize that it's going to hurt somewhat (and you'll be SO sensitive the first couple of days) until you and your baby have it all figured out - it might take that first week. But try it - if you can get through those first couple of days where the two of you are learning, it'll become second nature, and you might find that it really is a great option (and in the meantime, your baby will have benefited from your colostrum - the most important piece of the puzzle).

Tell the delivery nurses you want to breastfeed, and make sure your hospital has you signed up for a visit from the lactation consultant. Also - I had well-meaning nurses, but they gave misinformation on nursing that the LC corrected on my last day (I had a c-section, so I was there for three days, and got to see the LC my first morning and my last morning). There's a REALLY great book - I think it's called The Breastfeeding Book - by Dr. Sears and his wife, Martha Sears. Check it out at the library - it tells ALL.

Also, don't overlook free support groups like Ambler Area Nursing Moms. They have open-minded volunteer counselors who are moms themselves. I can give you a phone number if you're interested.

I have a friend who had her second child about 8 years after the first (second one in her 40s), and she had done formula the first time and nursed the second. She had her baby a few months before I had mine, and couldn't stop raving about the liberating experience of nursing - she said she felt empowered. I'm not sure I felt the same way, but the bonding and closeness was amazing.

You have nothing to lose by trying, and if it doesn't work out, formula is there for your baby. Lots of people take that route and have healthy children too!

I had my first when I was 18 and trying to finish college at the same time. I started breastfeeding him but it didn't work out, by 3 months he was on formula. I now have my second (only three weeks old:)) and so far breastfeeding is going good. She is such a good eater. Yes it did hurt a bunch at first, but once your milk comes in about 5 days after birth usually then it got lots better. The Lanlintosh (sp) cream works great to sooth sore nipples and got me through the first week. But now I hardly use the cream. once you get through the first week it hurts less as long as baby is latched on correctly.
I would say try it for the first month and see how it goes you can always switch to formula latter. Good luck.

Hi E.! What an exciting time this is for you! But I can understand this difficult decision about breastfeeding.It is true that breastfeeding can hurt in some cases. Usually it is when the baby first latches on to eat. It can almost feel like a very strong suck or even a bite, but it goes away quickly as the baby relaxes and eats.Sometimes , too, in the begiinning your nipples have to toughen up!So they become quite sore and can even get scabs. Again making latching on difficult. BUT E. your experince could be different. Your soreness might be a lot less. Also know that the sore part passes and is only in the beggining of feeding. It is a WONDERFUL experience. I wanted to be honest with you about the pain , not scare you. And I want you to really know that it is soooo worth it! A great esperience of closeness with your baby that you'll never forget! Best of luck to you. Oh , and the hospitals usually have support laisons or groups for breastfeeding Moms.
W.

hi there E.,
I breast fed my first child till he was 5 months old. he was a preemie and his mouth was so little and i had so much milk that we had to use a nipple sheild for him to do it, eventually he learned how to feed from the breast and it was easy from then on. the nipple sheild was great and can help with phirana like sucker ;-) with my second child (also a preemie but only 5 weeks so she came home with me) she was too lazy to latch on properly and i ended-up pumping and giving her the breast milk in a bottle. i only did this for 6 weeks and then switched her to formula which she liked too. If you join Costco, the formula and diapers are MUCH cheaper. They have their own brand of formula which is almost the same as enfamil and thats what we used for our 2nd child. they also have enfamil and similac if you prefer them. their wipes are cheap too. don't let any lactation consultant bully you. they say don't give a pacifier or they won't take the breast (not true) they say don't supplement with formula and insist that the babies stomach can only take a little amount so they can't still be hungry if they are crying. my doctor said to supplement if i wanted and listen to my instincts, that the lactation consultants get crazy with their stuff.
Also, i know many kids who breastfed till late (including my first) that got tubes in their ears because of infections and have asthma and allergies. it's not true that breast feeding helps with that. as for the lower blood pressure, i guess we will wait and see when they get older ;-)
Congratulations and good luck with which ever way you choose for you and your baby.

E.,
My children were spaced apart also - even though you have one child you may feel a little nervous about this time around. I know alot of women who get very nervous about breastfeeding, if there will be pain, if their milk supply will be ok, etc. Although these problems do exist for some, I believe the numbers are small. I have breastfed my two children (my 3 had a cleft palate - couldn't nurse, but I pumped) and things went well without any problems. Relax and remember it's a natural thing. There are alot of suppot groups out there when the time comes if you need them, but I think sometimes we tend to over analyze things!

E.,
I won't say it's the easiest thing in the world, or pain-free, but if you get a good start, it could turn out to be a great experience for both you and your new baby. I really think the best thing to do is to decide that you really want to do it (if that's the case) and then get prepared. Talk to a lactation consultant, maybe take some breastfeeding classes, read books or read online. I think a lot of times it's the lack of knowledge or not knowing what to expect that can make it difficult and painful. Even though it's a "natural" thing, it's still a learned behavior, so you do need to be taught how to do it properly to get the best results and to feel confident in what you're doing. Good luck!

Congratulations!! The second time around will be much easier. I also have an 11-year-old daughter, and I just gave birth to my son 5 months ago, so I'm in the same boat. I was 22 when I had my daughter, and I did breastfeed her, and it did hurt like hell at first. I knew very little, and I was told the pain was part of it, so I stuck with it until my nipples adjusted, then it wasn't painful at all. This second time around, the pain was also horrible...until I found a better position for my son! I really thought that when people would say "he's not latching on right" they didn't know what they were talking about because he was eating, so in my mind, that meant that he was latching on correctly. I was wrong--they were right. Someone gave me the book "What to expect the first year" and I found pictures of different positions to have my baby latch on. The "football hold" worked the best for me. As soon as I tried it, I felt an immediate difference--it didn't hurt AT ALL! It was awesome!! Give it a shot. Breastfeeding is great--it really is a loving, bonding experience that no one else gets to have with your baby. Enjoy it!!

E.,

Yes, breastfeeding can be difficult, and even painful, in the beginning, but when done properly, it should not hurt. My daughter is now 5 months old and exclusively breastfed. I'm very happy to know that all that cute chub is directly due to me and to know that she's getting the best I can provide for her (not to mention at no cost).

There are a lot of good resources out there for breastfeeding. www.kellymom.com is a great one.

S.

Breastfeeding doesn't hurt at all if the baby is latched on properly. At most, your nipples will get a little sore if the baby latches on wrong. Take advantage of the lactation consultant in the hospital. She will come around and offer you advice and techniques.

Hi E.,

Congratulations on your pregnancy! I think it is great that you would like to breastfeed your baby. It is the best thing you can do for your baby and for you. It may hurt a little bit at first, but as long as you get a good latch, it shouldn't hurt too much and the pain does go away as you get more efficient at doing it. The first 2-3 weeks are generally the most difficult and after that it is easy, easy, easy!

Below are some links to articles and websites that you may find helpful for breastfeeding information:

1) www.Kellymom.com - this is a great website - I use it whenever I have a breastfeeding question.
2) Here is a link to an article that talks about the benefits your baby gets when you breastfeed. It gives benefits for each stage of the way. So even if you only breastfeed for a short time, you can still see the benefits your baby will get. I gave this article to a friend of mine who had a difficult time breastfeeding her 1st baby and when having baby #2 wasn't sure if she even wanted to try. Well because of this article, she tried and her baby is now 6 months old and still breastfeeding. <http://www.wiessinger.baka.com/bfing/breastvbottle/wean.h...;
3) This is an article that I wrote based on my own experiences getting started with breastfeeding. Hopefully some of the tips in it will help you to be successful: <http://www.mothersboutique.com/brtifornewmo.html&gt;;
4) This is an article that I wrote about pumping and going back to work. The advice in it is great for any mom who uses a breastpump - even if she isn't working outside of the home. Take a look: <http://www.mothersboutique.com/woandbrtifor.html&gt;;

Good luck and please let me know if you have any other questions. I would love to help you be successful with breastfeeding!

J.

A Mother's Boutique
Breastfeeding clothing, nursing bras, breastpumps, slings and accessories.
MamaSource members save 10% off their first order (excluding breastpumps) using promo code MAMASOUCE.
<http://www.mothersboutique.com&gt;

I breastfed both of my girls. Actually, I'm breastfeeding the second as I type. Anyway, I NEVER had an issue with it hurting. It was a little difficult in the beginning, but the lanolin stuff they give you for your nipples is very helpful if you use it after every feeding like you're supposed to.

Give it a try. If you don't like it or experience pain you can always switch to formula or try pumping and bottle feeding the breast milk.

I breatfeed my daughter and it did hurt alittle but it was nothing compared to giving birth. You will do fine and after about a day or two once you both get the hang of it, it wont hurt anymore. good luck! Dont give up after the first time. hope this helps.
N.

I breastfed my 4 children. It isn't easy AT FIRST but neither is giving birth and then there is so much to profit with a new baby in your life. You need to connect with others that will encourage you because the "painful" part doesn't last but the bond and special connection with your baby does last! There are ways to deal with any pains (ice or heat. It just takes getting used to and it is worth it!!!! And helpful in the financial department. You can do it!!!

You can always try and if it is a problem stop. Not everyone has pain breastfeeding. I breastfeed both my kids and once we both the hang of it after a day or so, it didn't hurt at all.

I found that in the begining it was very, different. It hurt sometimes or uncomfortable, but once I got the hang of it, I beleive both of my daughters have benefited from it. Like anything you're not a pro at it right away. It takes practice. I breast fed one for 6mo and the other for 4mo. I feel that they are pretty healthy and it is only a plus to breastfeed. And a lot less inexpensive than formula!!! Good luck

I was in alot of pain nursing both my kids for the first 2 weeks. If you stick through it the pain will go away and you should not have any more discomfort. I always tell my friends this because my second baby nursed much more painfully than my first. If I had had him first I would have quit for sure. But, because I knew it would get better I hung in there and sure enough it was. It will become a truely wonderful experience if you can just get through the beginning. Good luck!

Its so wonderful that you are looking into it so soon. The more informed you are the better. Be sure to work closely with the lactation consultant at the hospital. Also, find the closest La Leche League and go to those meetings. I think having people around that know the correct way to teach you and your baby to latch on will reduce the pain. Once you and the baby learn the correct way its a breeze and a beautiful experience. Good luck!

I only have one child, but that was a big issue with me too. I agree breast is the best, but I never did get the hang of it.
My milk didn't come in properly, so I pumped what I could, and the rest was formula. After about 2 weeks I got so fed up that I just went with formula. Pumping hurt like crazy and my chest was so sore I couldn't stand it.
My son and I have an incredible bond even though I didn't breast feed. If we have another child I will try to breast feed again. Ultimately it's your call. I hope this helped. Congrats on the new addition to your family!

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for the 1st year. The World Health Organization recommends the first 2 years. You can make it through all of the ups and downs as long as you have good QUALIFIED resources. Your local hospital should have a lactation specialist that you can go to and call at off hours of the day. You should definately go to mothers breastfeeding groups. Birth Mark in Media has gatherings for such mothers. It is not crunchy. It is just a place to share stores and information. I also recommend the local La Leche League. You can find a meeting near you. They generally meet once a month. You definately need to have a support group...and you have to go. If it hurts...the baby is most likely not latched properly to your breast. A certified lactation consultant will be able to give you hands on advice about your latch...both Birth Mark and La Leche will be able to help you with such problems. Don't give up or despair. With the right support group and certified resources...you can do this.

No one told me how hard breastfeeding would be...BUT it was only difficult for about two weeks and then I actually enjoyed it...and now I MISS it! I never thought I would say that. Just tell yourself-two weeks! Also, they sell these gel breast pads that really soothe and heal-I got them from the lactation dept. where I gave birth. Good luck and don't let anyone let you feel bad if you choose NOT to breastfeed.

I breastfed both of my children. I also used bottles and breast right from the beginning. It's not a popular thing to do now, I guess, but my grandmother was my "lactation consultant", and she was fantastic. I was born in 1961, and breastfeeding was very out of fashion in those days. My mom knew nothing about nursing and thought it was a very low class thing to do. Obviously, she was not supportive. LOL

I had no problems with my boys. They were very accepting of either the breast or the bottle, breast milk or formula. It made no difference to them. My husband really wanted to hold his sons and feed them, too. The grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., all were able to rock and hold our babies and feed them. It was fantastic for them all. It also gave me a break, too.

It is important, though, to keep to a nursing/pumping schedule as milk supply adapts to demand. Generally, my babes had one bottle of formula a day, sometimes another bottle with breast milk, depending on what I had banked in the freezer. We used Nuk type nipples on the bottles, which seemed to be the most like breastfeeding. That was 20 years ago, so I couldn't even tell you what's on the market today. Once I had a good milk supply, I'd have enough to pump and freeze breast milk for bottle feeds. What was especially nice was the routine hubby and I had at night. There was usually an early evening feed around 7:00 p.m. After I nursed at that feed, I'd go to sleep. My husband kept the baby downstairs with him. It was a special time for them. At 10:00 p.m. or so, my husband take care of the next feed with a bottle. Afterward, he'd bring the baby upstairs for bedtime. Hubby went to sleep, and I woke up for the next feed and nursed around 2:00 or so. I also got up at the crack of dawn for the next feeding. In that way, I was able to get good, quality sleep from 7 or 8 p.m. until 2:00 a.m., then sleep a bit more until the sun came up. No one could believe me when I told them I wasn't tired and was getting enough sleep!

Every child is different. My boys were very relaxed about eating, and they took whatever was given to them. (They still do that and continue to eat me out of house and home!) Other children are picky about nipple shapes, taste, texture, etc. For us, at least, breast and bottle were a good combination.

I would breast feed your new baby!!! Yes it may be slightly uncomfortable at first, but that should stop once your "boobs" get use to having a baby latched on!! the benefits it will provide to your baby are very good and as mothers we all want whats best. And besides, it's alot easier than child birth. I say... GO FOR IT!!

E.,

Compared to childbirth, the pain of breastfeeding is nothing.

Actually, it really only hurt a bit in the beginning. It's probably not as bad as you think. I suggest you just try it...if you find you like the bonding experience it is easier to push through the hard part.

E., if you can birth a child -- bf. I found the hardest part is getting the routine down. My dd is 18. I was a single mother, went back to work full time and I cloth diapered and bf my dd full time. The money I saved offset the cost to have an "older" caregiver come into my home who was willing to use cloth and pull my bottles out of the freezer. I fifo'd them. Left in, right out. I came home with 2 bottles from work daily and they went into the freezer. I had to start pumping about 3 weeks prior to returning to work but it all worked out great. Yes, it takes a few days to "toughen" up the nipples, but get past that and it is sooooooooooooooooooooooo much easier and better for baby in the long run.

Try. And the worst that could happen is you know it is not for you and you choose formula.

There is no bond like having a boob tick! LOL Find the local LaLacheLeague group, they will rock your world with information and support -- after being around for about 80 years they have lots to offer. April 19th is the annual Pittsburgh Regional LLL event held out by the airport. I will be there again this year. Hope to see you.

Good luck in your decision.

MB, baby wearing mother to two, nursed and clothed all three!

Hi E.,
This is such a tough decision on anyone and everyone has their own opinions and advice. So I can offer you mine only based on my experiences, but I hope it will help you. I am a Mom of three and expecting my 4th in a few weeks. With each one of my children I tried whole-heartedly to breastfeed; it was such a struggle for me and my babies, and very painful as well. I decided to pump for a few weeks, so I felt better that they were still getting some breast milk, but then I began using formula. I will do the same with this baby, as it seems to work very well for us.

To help with the cost of formula, I bought several cans at a time throughout my pregnancy so that it didn't add up all at once. The powder in cans I believe has a great shelf life. And this was just our choice, but we had the best luck with Nestle Carnation; and we were able to find it as low as $8.99 a can in our local grocery store. So, that is just my advice and what has worked for me.

If you don't mind me asking, are you still a single Mom, or has your situation changed? Either way, look for outside help, even if you think you don't qualify. And register online for formula coupons, you'd be amazed how much you will save. They give free formula, which I know doesn't go a long way, but will send you coupons throughout the baby's first year as well. You may known this already. :0)

Good luck to you and your new baby to come! C. B.