Feeding issues

[LilliS]

Since Caitlin was in NNU I expressed and bottle and tube fed her as our main goal was to put on weight and measure her feeds. Towards the end we tried breast feeding but each time I was in extreme pain and it just wasn't working. I had a lactation consultant come and visit us and she said that Caitlin is very small and my nipples are large and I am also very sensitive which is the main problem.

Now that we are home I have continued to try but each time I end up near hysterical and in tears because it hurts so much. In ends with both of us stressed and upset. DH and I ended up fighting too because he just didn't understand the pain and stress of it. I had the community nurse here the other day and I just made it through a feed (with pain!) but after I was so sore and the other feeds were a nightmare. I am still expressing and bottle feeding bub but am not sure what to do from hereon.

I am not someone who looked forward to breastfeeding and have tried to make it work for the Caitlin's sake. But have to say I don't enjoy it and was only trying as I was expected to. I have plenty of milk (300mL + each time) and am happy to express and bottle feed (for now) but am not sure how long I should continue to do this. I almost wish I didn't have the supply so I don't have the option. I really can't see myself going back to breastfeeding even when her mouth is bigger and it 'should' work better.

I am trying to figure out my plan...
Do I continue expressing and bottle feeding?
Switch to formula?
Is there a minimum for which you should feed breastmilk for a healthy baby?

Would love your opinions but please no 'you MUST breastfeed or you are a terrible mother' as I do feel guilty but the stress really isn't worth it for me.

[Cashew]

Hi Lillis, you are doing wonderfully and i really admire you for trying to breast feed. I too had trouble with breast feeding as my son (two weeks old) would not latch properly, has a funny tongue and i have BIG nipples for his little mouth plus flat nipples oh and the over sensitivity thing, so i hear where your coming from. I express and bottle feed as i have a really good supply also and i find this to be working for him as he is thriving so i will continue to do so for as long as i can. Its up to you really if you want to continue to try breast feeding but you need to do what's comfy for you and baby and if their still getting breastmilk wether expressed or boobed then i dont see why it should be a big deal. If you have to formula feed then dont let anyone else make a big deal out of that either because in the end your baby needs to eat and its best to feed in a positive enviroment for the both of you. What ever works for you, good luck :yes:

[MissSookyLaLa]

lillis, sorry didnt see this thread!

like a few of us have said to others, the only thing that matters is that you and bubs are happy and healthy...if you are miserable breastfeeding then bubs will be sad for you too...

so do whatever makes you both comfy and happy!

how is the little princess anyway???

[bronny-jane]

you need to do what you feel is right:yes: for both of you...

have you tried to attach bub in other positions.... im only just starting to feed damon with the cradle hold.... i had to feed and still do in the football hold..i attach him really well that way, and it doesnt hurt, if it does i get him off and have another go:yes:.. the more you feed with pain, the more damage you do.... best to solve it quickly... i watched a dvd about breastfeeding in hospital, and only then did i understand proper attachment... you have to find your right way.. not what others say:yes:

i had a bad time with dd3.. i stopped at 2 weeks, i was getting resentful having to be in pain... and i wasnt enjoying it at all...

whatever you choose to do, im sure you'll both benefit..

oh and another thing, when i had dd3, a lady in our group had attachment issues as well... she expressed for weeks, then one day, bub was one the breast... thats persistance... but it all comes down to time and lifestyle... good luck