Stopping Nursing - feelings

Did anyone feel guilty/bad when you stopped nursing?

I think I need to stop pumping for many reasons but I feel so bad. DD stopped breastfeeding 2 months ago and I have been pumping but now that I'm back to work, it's getting to be too much. All the added work, preparation, and stress of finding the time during the day. I know she will be fine on formula.

On the other hand, I'm sad and reluctant to give it up because it feels like something very special I am able to do for my DD. Also I do want her to have my antibodies - she is 4 months and has never been sick! Starting daycare soon and that has me worried about the immune system.

I feel selfish for wanting to stop to make it more convenient for myself.

Did anyone else feel conflicted like this?

Re: Stopping Nursing - feelings

yes I felt the same way and my work was making it hard mentally to get to the place where I was producing enough for her. So I decided to just do morning and night feeds and when my supply dwindled so low DD was already ok with bottles of formula. I was the one that missed the connection. After a month I felt happy I did it for so long but relieved i was free from the demands physically and mentally.

Re: Stopping Nursing - feelings

Yes I felt the same way. I stopped at 2 months. I just couldn't do it anymore. It was taking a big toll on me. I still regret stopping so early but my DD is now a very healthy 2.5 year old and has been in daycare since 3 months. So do what is best for you.

Stopping Nursing - feelings

I was an exclusive pumper and felt guilty when I stopped pumping- I also felt guilty all along that I didn't "try harder" to get her to nurse and opted to be an exclusive pumper instead. I also felt guilty when I was pumping bc I wasn't engaging with DD while pumping 4 or 5 times a day. Call it mommy guilt! I quickly learned that whether you are an EP, use formula, breast feed completely or whatever , your baby will be fine as long as YOU are in the right state of mind and not stressed.. that is the most important thing =) I weaned off pumping at one year mostly bc it got difficult with a walking baby and I was tired of hearing my husband of all people complain about it. At the end of the day anything she got was a bonus imo. Feel proud of what you have done to date!