breastfeeding?

[KarenDiane]

Has anyone thought about whether they will breast or bottle feed? I tried breastfeeding with my 2nd baby but gave up after 2 weeks. My first and third were bottlefed from the start. I'm going to try breastfeeding again with this one.

[ashleighnb]

Definitely going to try breastfeeding. DD had a hard time latching so I stopped with her at 2 weeks then pumped for another two weeks then the milk pretty much dried up.

[KarenDiane]

Thanks for the info. I will definately try the nipple sheild.

[rebekah385]

I am planning to breastfeed for a year if i can, this is my 4th and I have breastfeed them all, but have had some trouble. with my first he was born 3 motnhs early, so I had to pump the breastmilk and then put it in a bottle (feeding tube at first) and my milk went away at 3 months. my second was'nt able to latch very good and had to be supplemented I ended up changing BC at 7 months and my milk went away (so be carefully what kind you are on) with #3 I again had trouble with the latching, and the nursing consultant introduced the nipple shield (it is so awesome) its a little plasticshield that goes over your nipple and makes it easier for the baby to suck and get bigger mouthfuls! it helped me so, much you can buy the nipple shield at target for about $9. I was'nt as sore and the baby did'nt need to be supplemented. I will be breastfeeding again with this one and am planning on using the nipple shield again at least in the begining and then we can play it by ear. Good luck and i think it is awesome that you are at least going to give breastfeeding a try!  

[KarenDiane]

I know what you mean. I chose not to even try to breastfeed my 1st and 3rd. Some people will try to humiliate you. I do believe it's a personal choice though and my kids were all very healthy.

[littlemiss86]

Ive decided not to breastfeed- personal choice.  But the look and responses I get from health care professionals is ridiculous everytime I say this (it's insulting really).  

[feather2e]

Most hospitals have lactation consultants on staff.I advise you to take advantage of this.They can show you the correct positioning and help the baby latch on properly.If you are doing it wrong then the baby wont get enough milk and you will hurt more. Also La Leche league holds meetings and there are many experienced nursing mums to help with difficulties.

[mimosagirl]

I am going to try it as well. This is my first. I do agree about the many benefits of breast feeding if it works for that person.  I'll keep in mind about it getting better after the first two weeks! Not looking forward to the sore nipples! I think they sell a special cream to help prevent cracking at Target, or perhaps Vaseline.(?)  

Good luck!

[feather2e]

I am still breastfeeding my son and he is almost 16months. I am trying to wean him in the next few months. He has been a very healthy child and I attribute that to the breastfeeding. I agree with Tasha it is hard for the first 2 weeks but after that you should be fine. I am definitely going to try with #2

[Tasha505]

breast feeding has many benefits... you should try! It helps you lose weight, and it's so good for your baby. If you can than that's great, if you try and realize it's not working... then good for you for trying!! I breastfed my daughter for 10 months, and let me tell you, my nipples were REALLY sore, but it passes... they get used to it after about 2 weeks. To answer your question: I plan on breastfeeding again with this next one as well.

Whichever you feel is best for you, go for it! :) Best wishes!

[HeatherLF16]

I am going to try to breast feed for as long as I can.  The benefits are so great!  Both of my sisters both have had a hard time breast feeding their kids (this is my first) so all my neices and nephews were bottle fed and they are just perfect. So, if I can wonderful if not that will be OK with me too.