@atcwag I will echo that the "is the only option" comment makes me a little itchy, but I did like your statement about not quitting on your worst day. I think that's true for Momming in general.
As a provider, it's a very difficult line to walk when you have a baby who isn't exactly failing to thrive, but also isn't growing the way you'd like. You want to encourage Mom to continue breastfeeding (especially if that's her goal), but you also don't want to put the baby/mom at risk.
I also feel like this thread has been very pro-formula, which is actually refreshing in a way. But also, breastfeeding is awesome. There are so many benefits, and not just physical. If you're on the fence between the two I'd really encourage you to do some research and also talk to Moms who have breastfed.
There are definitely struggles, but I don't think I've ever met anyone who was able to successfully breastfeed, who then looked back on the experience and regretted it - on the whole at least. Some moms (like @KilgraveMadeMeDoIt ) might have had moments of regret, but I've never heard anyone say "Man, I wish I had just never even tried it."
@sweetlyuntied - I can see how that comment may have been off-putting to some. I did specify "for me" that was the case, not that every momma needs to go into a breastfeeding journey with that mindset. But again, I see how that seems "harsh", but that's really the way it was for me...obviously barring any medical need otherwise. If your GOAL is to EBF, I think it's appropriate to know that it's, very often, not easy. To give up, if that's not your desire, because of lack of help, etc is sad. I've seen too many family members and friends fall into this. It's definitely a fine line between support and pushiness, which is why I think it's necessary to know mommas true goals.
Re: Feeding babies
As a provider, it's a very difficult line to walk when you have a baby who isn't exactly failing to thrive, but also isn't growing the way you'd like. You want to encourage Mom to continue breastfeeding (especially if that's her goal), but you also don't want to put the baby/mom at risk.
I also feel like this thread has been very pro-formula, which is actually refreshing in a way. But also, breastfeeding is awesome. There are so many benefits, and not just physical. If you're on the fence between the two I'd really encourage you to do some research and also talk to Moms who have breastfed.
There are definitely struggles, but I don't think I've ever met anyone who was able to successfully breastfeed, who then looked back on the experience and regretted it - on the whole at least. Some moms (like @KilgraveMadeMeDoIt ) might have had moments of regret, but I've never heard anyone say "Man, I wish I had just never even tried it."
edit because autocorrect hates me.