Breastfeeding guilt
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Formula is a great option too. I did combo as I had trouble with supply. I managed 6 months with some direct breastfeeding, pumped breastmilk and lots of formula. My LO is growing well and I’m relieved. There was no way I could have done 100% breastfeeding. Your mental health is the thing that’s going to get you through keeping LO happy and safe so prioritise yourself on this one. I was 100% formula fed as a baby and well so it’s not the end of the world if you end up stopping. Do what you feel like you need to do to get through these months ahead
Pumping takes so much energy. Formula exists for a reason and is a totally valid option! If you want to increase your supply, drink 3L of water a day, take moringa nettles and goats rue supplements, make sure you're eating enough and try to throw in some extra pump sessions! Up to 3 months you can totally improve your supply!!
Here to say I can relate. My 2 week old has a lip tie and tongue tie and can’t latch and lost 2 lbs within the first few days. I had no idea he wasn’t feeding properly and felt terrible when we went to the doctor and found out why he was crying 24/7 at our first check-in with his doctor. Not being able to breast feed him and losing my supply has left me feeling gutted. I know Fed is best but I feel like I have let my baby boy down. I see you and I feel for you momma 🩷
Please don't kill yourself over providing breast milk. Do your best and, if it doesn't work out, give yourself the grace to quit. A mentally sound, healthy, and present mother far outweighs the benefits of breast milk any day, and as long as your baby is fed, that's what matters. I'm not saying stop trying, but when it reaches the point of causing your mental health to plummet, then the better option is whatever allows you to be a healthy, happy mom.