For those that stopped bfing cold turkey

Holljade · November 2014

did you notice it messing with your hormones? Maybe Moreso than if you weaned off?

Just curious if this is a possibility.

Holljade · November 2014

Bc he gained so well eating solids I got really freaked out it was my milk that was the problem. He just cut a tooth so I was going to switch to exclusively pumping but- it's my milk that's the issue.

He doesn't spit up formula like he spits up my milk. My gut told me there was something wrong with my milk.

I had an abundance of it so I know it wasn't that I didn't have enough. I felt like I was being selfish trying to breastfeed when it wasn't good for him. Part of me feels like a fool for taking 7 months to realize it.

I thought I would feel free once I stopped bfing. Instead I feel... Like something is missing. I feel sad. My original goal was 6 months but once I realized how well it worked for me (or so I thought) I definitely was planning to go for a year. So abruptly stopping at 7 months has left me feeling strange.

I have hand expressed here and there and keep checking to make sure there are no red spots- I'm worried about mastitis as wel.

Nik102 · November 2014

We weaned pretty much cold turkey 3 weeks ago. DS couldn't possibly careless and has adjusted pretty well to formula. I have had a harder time letting it go. I feel a deep void without even though things have been much better without nursing. I feel like it definitely made my anxiety worse (always have had anxiety issues)and almost sent me into a depression. From what I have read it could be fro the sudden drop in oxytocin that I would normally get from nursing. I was worried about mastitis as well especially since I had it before but luckily no issues with that. Its definitely an emotional roller coaster I'm happy and relieved I'm done but I can't help missing it and being sad that part or our bond is over. I'm not sure if it's hormone related but the past couple days I thought for sure I was getting my period for the first time. I have had some pretty horrific cramping nothing like I have ever had and a little spotting. Hang in there and just keep an eye out for mastitis.

hordol · November 2014

Hugs. I'm sorry you're feeling off about it. I felt the same when I gave up bfing. It wasn't exactly cold turkey because I had to supplement while I was at work, but the weaning was definitely unintentional.

I liked the way my hormones were while bfing. I have adrenal hyperplasia (a mild form) but since that means I make more testosterone than most women typically, during bfing I felt a little more balanced out. Now I'm back to noticing the effects of too much testosterone and it kind of sucks.

So basically I felt like pre-pregnancy me when I gave it up, but it was a dramatic change, not very gradual.

deidremaria · November 2014

I have no advice just hugs! You made it pat your goal and you are not selfish. At least you came to a realization and made a change. Your LO is lucky to have you for a mommy.

chichi589 · November 2014

I didn't quit cold turkey but the week I weaned I was a mess between the feelings going through my head from him growing up and then actually stopping I was a mess. I stopped pumping at work on a Monday only did MOTN feelings for 2 weeks and then dropped BF all together. I miss it but life is simple now! Embrace the time you had, you did great making it this far.

CalinAZ · November 2014

Many hugs - I can only imagine how hard this decision was for you to make. Good for you for listening to yourself and making the best choice for your little one. You have definitely been anything but foolish - I imagine most moms would have done the exact same in your shoes. So glad to hear that formula is working well

Best of luck with your transition!

csmily51 · November 2014

meg.eliz1 said:

DD weaned cold turkey but I didn't chose to wean her, it was all baby lead. My supply was going to shit and she was always hungry so I started giving her formula and never looked back. Because of my supply issues I never had any engorgement, any leaking...nothing. I had some wicked headaches while my hormones adjusted though.

This. I did slow my pumping. I went from 3-4 a day, to two times per day, then once. I did it over the course of a long weekend (4days). I experienced a little discomfort, but no mastitis, and I had it a few times while I was nursing/pumping. I felt so much better though, and Olivia is happier and that's all that matters. IT was a struggle for both of us to nurse and keep the routine up. We're both happier now.

Talltrees82 · November 2014

I weaned slowly and when I finally stopped I was a hormonal mess. It felt very similar to PPD. It was awful, but I got through it and things are better now.

Way to go for making it 7 months! You are doing what's best for you and your baby, don't feel bad!

Holljade · November 2014

Thanks so much everyone- it's been tough and I am hoping it gets easier with each day. I truly appreciate all of your Advice and support!!

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