S/O weaning...

MrsAO

I've been exclusively pumping because M never latched on.  Maybe I didn't try as hard as I should've but those first few weeks were crazy and I just got so upset when he would scream every time.  So I thought pumping was the next best thing - as long as he got it.  That being said, I've decided to stop at the end of ths month.  I figure 2 months of BM is good. 

I just simply can't be attached to that machine any longer - it's impossible for be to get anything done or go anywhere for an extended amount of time, and really give M the attention he needs as well.  My supply is slowing down and I'm barely keeping up - just getting a touch more than he's eating in one feeding.  I have about 1 weeks worth of BM in the freezer, so he'll have that after I'm done. 

So, how do I stop?  Do I just quit cold turkey and endure pain until it goes away?  I'd appreciate helpful tips and advice from you ladies that have done it.

RachelJohnson

I wouldnt stop cold turkey. Maybe cut him down to one feeding in the morning and one at night. Or cut down to three feedings and then gradually work your way down. That way your milk will adjust and it wont be as painful. Good luck!!! )

RachelJohnson

He is too cute btw! Hope you are doing well )

sdkrlm

do it slowly for yourself.  Drop a pump session every few days.

 As far as introducing formula - you also want to do that slowly too.  I've heard two different "methods" - either replace an entire bottle with formula vs BM or add formula to a bottle of BM (just make sure you use the bottle within 24 hours) until it's 100% formula

 

Good luck!  you have done great EPing for 2 months!

MrsAO

RachelJohnson:

He is too cute btw! Hope you are doing well )

Aw thanks!  I'm doing pretty good, you're too sweet to ask!

MrsAO

sdkrlm:

Good luck!  you have done great EPing for 2 months!

Thanks for saying that - I've really riddled myself w/ a lot of guilt about stopping.  At first I was going to quit at one month but decided to tough it out.  But ever since I've decided on an "end" date, my baby blues has gotten a lot better.

aubie96

I have no words of advice but think it's great you've gone this long.  My sister only did it for that long and I'm only going to be able to while I'm on maternity leave. 

MissLMS

MrsAO:

sdkrlm:

Good luck!  you have done great EPing for 2 months!

Thanks for saying that - I've really riddled myself w/ a lot of guilt about stopping.  At first I was going to quit at one month but decided to tough it out.  But ever since I've decided on an "end" date, my baby blues has gotten a lot better.

You should be proud of doing it for two months. Many, many moms don't make it that far. Congrats and think of all the good that has done for your LO!

I agree with Sarah and Rachel. You may want to cut back slowly, just to make it easier on yourself and ease your DS onto formula. I would say cut back a feeding or two of BM into formula and then that way it won't be so painful.