breastfeeding and health issues

RedBird11

Question for those who have had to make a decision about stopping breastfeeding for their own health. What was your biggest reason for making the decision to stop or continue?

I have been having a lot of problems lately with my inner ear disorder. It was fine most of the pregnancy but got worse during the 3rd trimester and hasn't improved. I just saw my ear specialist today and he told me that breastfeeding can make my symptoms worse the same way the 3rd trimester did. He also told me he can't treat me until I stopped. He did not exactly suggest that I stop but he told me to come back after I did. I really wanted to make it to the 6 month mark but I am miserable most days. I hate that I have to make this decision. One big thing that makes me consider continuing with the nursing is that it is not a guarantee that I will improve after stopping. I don't want to be selfish. Breastfeeding has been going well for me so I would feel guilty.

I realize I never mentioned my symptoms. I have hearing loss, pressure and ringing/roaring daily in my left ear.

nicole mackenzie

Every day you've breast fed is great! If at this point if you need to stop for your own health I think that is totally fine.

cnbean

For me it came down to quality of life. I had to ask myself what I would regret more, enjoying my time with DS or BF. Once I accepted that I would probably have regrets about either choice it made the decision easier. And I actually found that I didn't regret my decision. 

pete0121

I think PP hit the nail on the head. If you feel miserable then you aren't enjoying your time with your LO. When you look back on it, I would think I would regret the time I didn't get to spend with them. I understand how you feel though. I have never quit for actual medical issues but have stopped out of frustration with my other two kids. I really have never regretted FF them because it made me happier than the stress BF was causing.

Tferr02

I stopped with DS1 at 8 weeks? It was when I found out I needed my gallbladder out. I have a lot of health probs and normally take 7 different meds daily when not pregnant/breastfeeding. I was miserable and the gallbladder surgery was just the excuse I needed to let myself quit. This time, most of my pain and such is doable without meds so far so I'm still bf. Don't feel guilty at all, you have done amazing to get this far.

RedBird11

Its related to hormones and water retention. Honestly there are a lot of unknowns about my condition (atypical Menieres disease). That's why I am hesitant. He did not tell me to stop but did say he has had past patients that improved when they stopped.

One of the main medications they prescribe is a diuretic and it can pass into the breastmilk making it not recommended.

RedBird11

And thanks everyone for the responses. Your opinions are much appreciated.

Yogini6911

It's easier said than done but you need to do what's best for both you and baby. I have been wanting to quit just for my own selfish reasons but I tell myself to stick it out.

I also recently started to take zoloft for ppd and I have noticed that this has helped calm my anxiety and thoughts like "omg I am not making enough" or "omg he's not liking my milk" or other crazy thoughts.

*sparky*

eme520 said:

Breastfeeding is a great thing to do if it works out for you, but it's not worth sacrificing your health IMO. Parenting is full of tough decisions and I know it would be really tough if quitting didnt help, but with those symptoms I would consider it seriously.

I agree with this 100%.