Wednesday, March 18, 2009

To Pump, Or Not To Pump?



That is the question..... I have been pregnant or nursing for that last 4 years--non-stop. I am tired of it. But, it is healthy for my babes, it burns me an extra 500 calories to produce milk, and it is FREE! I am very proud of the fact that I work full-time, and neither of my girls ever had to even taste formula. But when should it end? Any sound advice?

4 comments:

erin said...

Oh, Cara, I don't know what to do, either. I feel as if I've reached the point where people think it's *weird* for me to still be breastfeeding, but every time I think of giving it up, I want to weep. Let me know what you decide to do.

Anonymous said...

You have done a great job for your girls. If I were in your shoes, I would get Eva going on "regular" milk and see how she does, and then taper and stop the pumping when you feel sure that she is OK with it. Honestly, you are a trooper for making the time to keep up with it for so long. I would give yourself a break, if you are mentally done, you know? I totally understand the whole guilt thing at not "providing" in that way anymore, but you provide in so many other ways ... they will always need you!! :)

That's my 2 cents, anyhow.

allison.

Elizabeth said...

It should end when you decide it should. If you are comfortable now, great. If you feel like she would continue to benefit, give it a few more months. But whatever you decide, don't let it overtake you. You do lots and lots for the girls, whether you chose to pump or not.

Jodi said...

I had the same concerns about when to stop nursing. At Gracie's one year appointment the doc said to start giving her whole milk and she likes it so much she refuses to nurse, except in the mornings! It helped me a lot because SHE decided she wanted less nursing. Maybe as you introduce more foods Eva will decide for you!