I cant assosiate with you as im expecting my first. Im still in two minds whether to breastfeed, for loads of reasons. I feel guilty that i want to formula feed, as i no breast is best but on the other hand, the thought of breastfeeding stresses me out aswell and i dont want my baby to pick up on that when its here

But i know pleanty of happy healthy babies and mothers who have fed there babies with formula, so i shouldnt feel guilty i suppose. I will do what i feel is right at the time..

I have still got 5months to decide so im trying not to worry for the moment

I am breastfeeding number 4 at the moment. I enjoy breastfeeding and would encourage everyone to try BUT i know it is not for every one, it is very time consuming and can be frustrating and tiring in the first weeks.You should not stress or feel guilty if you decide on formula feeds instead. Whatever suits you the best. good luck

It's great that you're thinking about trying again after such an awful experience with your first - but although we're always being told how much better breast milk is, it's equally important that you are happy and able to enjoy those first few weeks, so you really shouldn't feel guilty if you find that you can't do it - i'm sure your baby would be just as happy with formula and a mum who's not stressed. You're obviously a very caring mum who wants the best for her kids, and so whatever you choose to do I'm sure they'll be happy and healthy.

Having said that, some babies do seem to find breastfeeding easier than others, so you may start it and find that you have no problems with cracked nipples at all. I'm breastfeeding my son and had a very painful crack on one nipple, and I used to want to cry every time I was about to feed him from that side (I was so lucky it was only one - I don't know how I would have coped if both were bad), but I used to pump that side when the breast was really full (when he'd have problems latching on) and give it to him from a bottle, which helped it to heal quite quickly (also thanks to huge amounts of Lansinoh!)...so you could always think about getting a pump just to make things easier if you are in pain and really want to give your baby breast milk.

Either way though, you should do whatever you are going to be comfortable with, so that you can relax and enjoy your baby!

Hope everything goes well with your pregnancy!

I understand why you would be feeling apprehensive about breastfeeding again. If you do decide to try again perhaps you can get a lactation consultant to work with you. I kept in touch with one via email constantly and she made a few house visits as well and it made the world of difference. She helped me reduce the soreness by ensuring bub had the proper latch and tried different positions as well.

Breast feeding can be difficult at first but it doesn't have to be that way for an extended period of time.

Give it a go hun and as long as you try your best that's all that matters.

You'll be a great mom and your lil one will love you regardless of how you feed them, breast or bottle

if u feel like this about bf, possibly it's best for you and the baby not to force yourself into sth!

yes, breast is best, this is what they say, but for you and the baby it is much more important you don't get PND anymore and bottlefed babies grow up well all the same!!!

for now, try to enjoy your pregnancy and don't feel guilty if you decide against bf!

all the best

Thanks everyone. I have to say i have been stressing about it so have decided to get the bottles and everything in and see how i feel when bubs arrives. It might feel like the most natural thing in the world when he/she gets here, but just in case it doesn't i think i'd better be prepared.
Thanks for your support. *hugs*