I have a 10 week old and I have tried my best to breast feed. He was in the NICU for 2 weeks so I couldn’t breastfeed. So I’ve pumped. I started back to work and I have a hectic schedule and don’t have a lot of time to pump. It’s overwhelming and it is stressing me out. I haven’t pumped in a couple of days and my breast hurt, so I’ll pump but now I’ve started my period. Is it too late to go back? Help!!
16 Likes
Fed is best, momma! You’re not a bad mom.
4 Likes
You do you, and whatever makes you happy. I have two thriving and smart formula fed boys. Breastfeeding wasn’t for me.
4 Likes
There’s mom shamers on here.
Do whatever you want
There’s healthy breastfed babies
There’s healthy formula babies.
6 Likes
You tried momma, fed is best.
3 Likes
The most important breast milk is the first few days after delivery. Be glad you were able to provide that to your baby. I never “built milk”
1 Like
A fed baby is best, you are not a bad mom at all! My milk didn’t come in very good and I had to stop after 6 weeks. You do what’s best for YOU and your baby!! Don’t make things more stressful on yourself!
1 Like
Your baby needs a mom that is happy. Formula is an amazing thing. Do what right for your family.
Totally up to you. If you’re determined to continue, it isn’t too late. But, your supply may take a hit from the last couple days of no pumping.
I would say if its important to you thats all that matters - reach out to a la leche league leader or an Ibclc if you want to continue. But if you’re ok with stopping then everyone else’s opinions don’t matter! Its all about what you want and can do for your journey.
It is hard. Being a mom is hard. You can really decide to do whatever you want. It’s not too late to try to get a good supply back. Or you can choose to use formula. Whatever you feel is right for you is the best decision.
You do whatever the hell you want… fed is best, boob, bottle… who cares… you do you 
You’re not a bad mom at all FED IS BEST. My son was also in the Nicu so we didn’t have the contact but I pumped for him as much as I could until it wasn’t possible anymore.
Do what is best for you and babe, you can go back to breastfeeding, it takes work, like a lot of work but it’s totally possible 
just remember your supply will dip a bit when your on your period, look into domperidone, power pumping, and supplement formula at the breast when possible, lots of skin to skin! Look into Dr Jack Newman, he’ll be your saviour! 
You do what causes you the least amount of stress.
3 Likes
Not at all. My 1-2mths 2-1mth and last baby was 2 weeks. I just plain couldn’t do it and it made me sad but I knew my babies were fed and happy. You are doing wonderful!
You have to do what’s best for both of you.
If pumping is stressing you out chances are the baby is stressed. They feed off your emotions.
So if you have to do both then that works too. But if you pump your never gonna dry up.
There is no such thing as a “bad mom” for any feeding choice made! Your baby is loved!
4 Likes
You are NEVER a bad mother for not breast feeding. As long as your baby is loved, and fed that’s all that matters❤
2 Likes
If you want to start again just establish a pumping routine and bring easy snacks you can eat while you pump on your breaks and lunch breaks and feed the baby when you get home your right the first few weeks are always the hardest but once you get past that it’s much easier you can do it ! And if not that’s fine your baby will love you either way
1 Like
U can probably still Breastfeed, u just need to feed baby mouth to breast when your with baby.
However if its is too Stressful.
Formula.
I have my period like regular the whole time I breast feed. As long as you are producing milk you can nurse.
1 Like
It’s not too late if you do wish to continue your journey. Great job for providing your child with momma milk. It is up to you whether you want to continue to breastfeed or formula feed. I personally am a breastfeeding mom, but I believe you need to do what will work for you and your family. If you choose to continue, try taking magnesium when you start your period to help your supply.
I would recommend doing both. Pump in the morning, 1x at work, and before bed. So your baby still gets some of the benefits of breast milk, and use formula for all other meals. I did this because my son never latched due to being in the NICU so I had to pump, but that really took a toll on me so I slowed down on pumping and incorporated formula.
1 Like
You do what you gotta do. Do what you think is best. As long as your baby is getting fed- not doing without eating& gaining weight \ not loosing weight- thats all that matters.
1 Like
Same situation. I quit at 8 weeks. I’m proud of those 8 weeks bc that was a lot of work. I really tried, but I didn’t have time to wash all those pump parts so many times everyday and trying to take care of kids and work. It broke my heart to stop, but I did my best.
1 Like
No, you can go back to nursing. It can take quite awhile to dry up.
1 Like
Fed is best. Breast or bottle it doesn’t matter as long as that little tummy gets full. I had a NICU baby too, and my milk dried up before it ever fully came in even with me pumping every 2 hours. NO you’re not a bad mom and don’t let a single person make you feel bad for not breast feeding.
2 Likes
I breastfed my son for 3 full years and now he’s 6 and reminds me of Donny from The Wild Thornberrys. Breastfeeding is great but over hyped. Just feed the kiddo.
2 Likes
My boy never wanted to latch, I tried breast feeding, but it didn’t work for us. Don’t ever feel less for not doing it. Sometimes it doesn’t work out. He got the most important milk by syringe and bottle in his first days and months. I pumped as long as I could and then we switched to formula. You do what works best for both of you!
1 Like
no youre not a bad mom at all!! many moms stop for various reasons i personally couldnt produce enough for my chunkle butts. i would just suggest going with something like carnation good start as it is closest to your milk and wont be as stressful on his stomach when you switch. have faith in yourself momma… you gotta be happy and healthy to be the best momma for him and that means not stressing yourself out.
1 Like
What does starting your period have to do with breast feeding ?? Just curious, I breast fed my babies and had my period regularly except with my 3 year old I didn’t get my period until she was about 9 months old.
1 Like
I stopped breastfeeding at 6 weeks. My baby was in the NICU for three weeks and they put the nexplanon in right after I gave birth so that slowed my milk also. If you’re a bad mom then I’m right there with ya . #badmomclub
Absolutely not. FED IS BEST. end of story.
Fed is best but you can still pump and breast feed. Your work also has to allow you to take breaks to pump
1 Like
Any breastmilk u can give is great!!! Formula is ok too!!! 
1 Like
Fed baby and happy mommy is best!
I tried with my son and it drove me insane. I tried again with my daughter and she was a breeze. Each baby is different. As long as your baby is fed and you are happy that is all that matters.
1 Like
I had to quit it was hard and sad for me but in the end a fed baby is the best kind of baby. So if you do end up totally quiting stop pumping go relive pressure it’ll just keep making it happen put cabbage in your bra itll dry you up and relive pressure and pain.
As long as your baby is fed that’s all that matters!
No. You are not a bad mom for stopping breastfeeding
Not at all. Baby needs mom to not be stressed. Just the fact that you’re questioning what is best shows that you’re a good mom…that’s what good moms do.
Whatever you decide to do just remember that baby will be happy & healthy if mom is happy & healthy 
Its ok to stop BUT if you dont want to, it isnt too late to.go back. It is also ok to give a combination of formula and breast milk!
You can still breastfeed. Just keep pumping. I used to be a foster care worker and the moms would only breastfeed during visits. Which was only a few times a week.
NO. Fed is best. In the end they are all eating dirt and old French fries
It’s not too late but you have to determine if it is best for you to keep doing it your sanity comes first here!
Absolutely not! I breastfed my little one for a week, but it was too much for me to deal with. You have to take care of yourself as well as the baby!
1 Like
Do both. Watch some educational videos on how to hand express also… When your strapped for time it can be an easy way to help activate your letdown. If im busy and out and about ill keep medela bottles w lids or snappys w me and either in my car or a bathroom to hand express.
Activating the fast reaction to letdwn is important to build your supply. If you can make 1-2ounces in about 5 mins that’s good
1 Like
It is not too late, but you aren’t a bad mom for stopping.
1 Like
If its stressing You out ,enough said. Fed baby is best.
That does not make you a bad mom. fed is best!
Any stimulation to the breast helps produce milk… Mine wouldn’t dry up… That’s what my Dr told me. Try breastfeeding morning and evening.
No it is does not make you a bad mother!!! I quit with my first after 3 months. Quit with my second after 6 weeks. I couldn’t produce and was killing myself emotionally about it.Now both are happy and healthy. I chose to give my kids a healthy mom instead of breast milk. You have to do what works for YOU.
1 Like
They have bumps that sit in a normal bra and you can pump under you shirt while working and you don’t have you stop.
If that helps. I’ve ordered one. Cause when I go back to work it’s hard to catch a break but having a pump I can wear while working will help me.
1 Like
No your not I have a busy sceudual and a very busy 4 year old …I started formula feeding my newborn after the first month and it’s alot easier
I strictly pumped with both mine. I was able to. Pop ump for 4 weeks with my first. With my second it was just under 3 weeks. I found it so hard to try to keep up with my oldest (hes 2) and try to pump every 3 hours. Everytime I would sit down to pump he would require my full attention or if he didnt then my daughter would wake up and need something. I decided enough was enough when it took me 2 hours to pump just one side. It stressed me out and made things 100xs worse. Fed is best. Doesnt matter which it is and for how long.
Girl you absolutely are not!!! Just make sure mom and baby are happy and fed and that makes you the best mother in the world
2 Likes
You get to do whatever YOU choose! YOUR decision and no one else’s. 
1 Like
- you’re ability to be a great mom does not depend on your ability to breast feed.
- IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE ALL OR NOTHING! if you can and want to pump 1/2/3 times a day and use formula then do that.
2 Likes
As long as your baby is not hungry you’re doing a great job. He needs a calm, happy mom who is not completely stressed out about breastfeeding or pumping, more than he needs your boobs. Go easy on yourself,
#FedIsBest and as for being a “bad mom” the fact that you are worrying about being a bad mom in the first place makes you a good mom. There is no handbook on mothering or parenting that prepares you for the actual mental anguish of “doing it right or wrong”.
3 Likes
It’s not to late but it is harder to get your supply back up then it is to get it to go down. You’re not a bad mom for it though. I failed at breastfeeding my first and he’s extremely smart! I breastfed my middle son until he was a year old and he had a speech delay, and didn’t speak until he was 3 and we put him in speech. My youngest was breastfed until he was 6 months old because of my work schedule. To be honest I don’t think my body naturally makes enough milk for my little ones to be satisfied. Doesn’t mean anything though because fed is always best!
Fed is best is a lie. Breast is best, fed is required. But if it’s hurting your mental health to the point that you cannot function there’s no shame in making the switch. On the other hand if there’s any way for you to connect with the resources you need to continue I’d do so!
6 Likes
If your feeding the baby regardless you go it going on girl
2 Likes
Look up the page “Expressions! Lactation services” SUPER HELPFUL!
It’s not too late, and as long as your baby is fed you are not a bad mother. I personally pump and nurse during my period as well. If you want to breast feed or pump, go for it, cause I doubt your milk is dried up already. If you dont want to, don’t.
I don’t even have to your entire post to answer HELL NO. You do you anyway you have to.
3 Likes
Ask a lactation nurse
1 Like
a fed baby is all that matters. whether it’s breastmilk directly from you, pumped into a bottle, donor milk or formula. fed is fed! doesn’t make you a bad mom at all for quitting breastfeeding.
6 Likes
I don’t think you should open yourself up to strangers judgement on parenting. I hate seeing this question “Am I a bad mother” it’s actually taking us back a few years to pleasing the masses in parenting and wanting people to validate our choices instead of being confident we are doing the best WE can, because you are & that’s all that should matter!!! 
4 Likes
No! Do whats best for you nd baby #fedisbest
1 Like
I’ve had 4 kids. Breastfeeding is hard!! You are a great Mom. Loved is best
Fed is best… Do what works for you and your babe!
1 Like
FED IS BEST. I don’t care what anyone says. I was formula fed along with my 3 other siblings and we’re all healthy. You are not a bad mother if you stop breastfeeding but please don’t ask these type questions because then you get the judgmental, rude ones and it could possibly upset you. You’re a wonderful mother whether you try and continue breastfeeding or you say nope, I’m done. I only breast fed my son for, I think, 2 months and then we went to formula. That was the best decision for all of us.
You’re not a bad mom at all!
1 Like
Fed is best whether it be formula or breast.
4 Likes
You cant take care of a baby if you’re not well enough to do it, if for whatever reason you are unable to breastfeed stop beating yourself up over it as long as the baby is healthy and still gaining weight you do what’s best for the both of you , being a new mum is hard work breastfeeding is hard work and sometimes bloody painful if you’re able to do it great if you’re not well that’s great too dont let anyone guilt you into carrying on xxx
Wow! Back to work already?!! I think that makes u a superwoman on its own. Like many of us mamas have said-it doesn’t matter as long as ur child is fed! I had a lot of issues breastfeeding my first and guess what? He’s always thrived and has always passed the milestones. No one would know any kid is formula fed or breastfed. I’m now breastfeeding my second baby and absolutely love the bonding. There’s too much pressure for moms these days. We wear so many hats and get judged no matter what we do. U do what’s right for u and don’t listen to anyone that tells u otherwise.
1 Like
Fed 100% is best, you TRIED! WAY TO GO MAMA!!! Some won’t even put in the effort.
1 Like
Do whatever you need to do for your mental health and don’t listen to anyone who says otherwise. A formula fed baby is better than a breastfed baby with a mommy who is always stressed out.
For heavens sake dear, relax, take care of yourself, you’ll be no good to your baby if you stress yourself out!!
I have breastfed my son for a year. And its been so hard. I wouldn’t blame you for stopping. And you dont have to stop all together. Lots of ppl use pumped breast milk and suppliment with formula. No matter what you decide youve got to do whats best for you and your family.
I don’t know much about the anatomical aspect of Breastfeeding, weaning, and menstrual cycles, but I can tell you that you are not a bad mother for deciding to stop breastfeeding. Most NICU babies I know seem to have difficulty breastfeeding at first. Some couldn’t latch properly until 2-3 months. Ultimately it’s your call on how you feed your baby. If you DO want to breastfeed but are feeling discouraged, I’d encourage you to keep trying. I know it’s time consuming but the benefits are tremendous. If you DON’T want to breastfeed, don’t feel pressured or guilty about it. I was bottle fed and had a successful athletic career throughout school and am a healthy adult. Work your schedule the best your can and keep on pushing, Mama. 
1 Like
A contented baby is a happy mum if your down so will baby so you just get that bottle out and you see your baby thrive,happy mum happy baby !
You’re not a bad mom! So what’s best for you and your baby and what’s best for your baby is a relaxed and not so stressed out mama!! You got this
So I half believe this but I’m going to pass it on anyway… my sons pediatrician told me that formula is better for him because he needs the calories but if I ( and I am loosing my milk) pump and make enough for one feeding a day the milk has enough antibodies to sustain him. I don’t know maybe she was just being nice to me because I feel so guilty.
No u r not a bad mom is ok to not breastfeed it’s not like u don’t want to it’s because u have to go work. Everyone has their own reasons i stopped breastfeeding since my daughter was 22 days old
Being a mom in general is hard. We as moms put to much pressure on ourselves and maybe not so blatant in a way on other moms. You and only you know what’s best for yourself, child and home. You shouldn’t ask a question like am I a bad mom because its obvious you care sounds like a good mom to me. Fed is best congrats on your baby.
Do what works best for you !! Do not feel guilty, a mentally healthy momma is so much better for your baby than stressed out getting breastmilk.
I know of a very powerful man who help me bring back my ex husband who left me over 10years it was my friend lisa that told me about the man and now my husband is with me and we both have 3kids, do you need your ex husband or wife back, or you need cure to any sickness you can contact him via WhatsApp +2349064938931 or Email :(Dr.gokospellhome12@gmail. com) thank you so much Dr goko
1 Like
Fed is best! Dont let anyone tell you otherwise!!
2 Likes
How baby is fed is not important, so long as baby is not going hungry, is growing well, and is happy, well cared for, and loved that’s all that matters. I breastfed for the first month, I have bad allergies and I ended up sick one day due to them, a whole day I couldn’t breastfeed and dried up instantly was unable to continue after that
1 Like
Maybe breastfeed when you are around and formula when you arent.
1 Like
I’ve done both. My oldest went to formula when she was 6 weeks. I pumped for my youngest until she was 11 months. So I know both sides. If it was me, I would switch to formula because if mom’s not okay, the baby will feel it and you need to take care of yourself before you can take care of your baby. That said, you need to do what YOU think is best.
You ARE breastfeeding, mama! Pumping IS breastfeeding. Nursing is not the only way to give baby your milk. Boob juice is still amazing whether it comes straight from nip to mouth or nip-bottle-mouth. I’ve been exclusively pumping since my baby was 5 days old and we’re not at almost 5 months and no sign of stopping anytime soon. You could try to just pump as much as you can rather than thinking you HAVE to pump x amount of times per day or every x hours. ANY amount you give helps so much with their immune system, growth-everything!! BUT, you are still an AWESOME mom regardless. If you’re worrying this much about it, you’re NOT a bad mom!! If you have any questions on EPing, feel free to message me!
1 Like
It is not too late, even if you have dried up you can relactate and it sounds like you haven’t. If your breast is hurting that may be mastitis, if it feels hot then it is… in that case have baby feed on that side and pump from it as much as possible, also massage it, especially in the shower. If it or you get worse you will need antibiotics for it.
I am sure it is hard to pump and work. You can breastfeed at home and pump/formula during the day. Your body will eventually adjust to where it creates more milk at night and less during the day (so you wouldnt have to pump at all or as much).
I am pro breast, especially for NICU. They antibodies you pass are so good for babies, and have you looked at the ingredients in formula?.. but better formula fed than not fed…
the best baby is a fed baby, just because you get your period doesnt mean anything nuat pump often and long time. you got this momma!
You’re 200% not a bad mother. Well done for recognising its a cause of stress. I did the same when my bub was 2 months old, I spend more time with the pump then with her. I was always trying to balance tending to her needs, and pumping. I realized I was getting mad at her because I’d hook up to pump and she’d need a feed or nappy change. Then I’d get up and carry her and the pump, then she’d kick the flange with my sunctioned nipple and I get mad. Breastmilk would be dripping out the bottom and I was in pain. Switching to formula was the best decision. It took the stress out of feeding. Babies are challenging in their own ways, if you can cut out any unnecessary stress then do it. You can’t pick out breastfeed babies in a crowd so don’t let any of the talk get to you. You’re amazing because you want to be the best mum you can.
4 Likes
Bottle when at work, nursed when at home. Worked for 3 kiddos for me. And no, it’s not too late to start back up. You’re probably running full so feed the baby and it’ll feel better for sure. Mastitis is painful but so is engorgement. Over time, if you’re not pumping during the day, your supply will adjust to some extent. I also have 2 nephews who were formula babies and they are just fine too. Up to you. Breast is best but bottles are fine if you can’t or don’t want to do the other.
Switch if you want to. But it isn’t too late to go back to breastfeeding. You can get your supply back up. You can even supplement with formula. Do what’s best for you and your family 
1 Like
It’s always your decision
1 Like
No, you are not. I was unable to nurse my first child and I really tried. My second one I nursed for 9 months and it was easy.The fact that you asked the question tells me you are a good mom and I am a mental health counselor if that helps.
2 Likes