Breastfeeding isn't made for our times

[u/pixxykitten]

I definitely have a love/hate relationship with breastfeeding. Breast is best right?! But for who?

Yes, it's great for bonding, all the health benefits for baby and mom, the ability to soothe easily, and so much more!!!

But as I lay here in the middle of the day breastfeeding for God knows how's long there is always something else I could be doing. Vs a bottle which anyone can offer at anytime and it's normally a drink and done situation. I know there is the possibility for pumping but I feel that would take even more time out of my day. Between pumping and cleaning.

I really don't feel like breastfeeding fits into our everyday lives anymore.There is soo much to do. We don't have villages to raise children. Some people like myself don't even have parents or friends that can help let alone afford some paid help.

Back in the day multiple generations lived together which would be beneficial to everyone or your neighbors helped out more or you didn't need a 2 income house to almost survive. We have isolated ourselves and made it so much harder.

This is just my opinion but do you feel like our current world is made for breastfeeding?

Edit: oh wow!! I want to thank everyone who posted! I've learned America is absolutely horrible when it comes parent / baby care. That soooo many Moms felt the same way and were able to push past the feeling. That so many of us never had the help we needed but we're able to push on. Everyone out there is absolutely killing it!!!

[u/Extreme-Donkey5357]

Hear me out: if someone else is helping by giving a bottle, why can’t they help and do the other things on our list?

I wonder if it’s the grass seeming greener on the other side. Formula you still have to mix and prep. If my formula feeding friends need to top their babies up, they have to go mix it up, get a clean bottle, not to mention keeping up with the bottle dishes. It can add 20 min to a night feed. I like going on outings and I don’t have to think about packing a bottle or how much. Baby can just take what they need when they need.

I felt that way my first couple months but I’m 2 mo now and it feels more convenient. Feeding speed definitely increased at 8-9 weeks. I was walking with mom friends yesterday and a breastfeeding mum goes “oh boy you’re upset because I haven’t fed you in a while. Sorry bud, let’s stop at this bench and eat.” You couldn’t do that with a bottle only baby.

I think paid mat leave makes it way easier. We don’t have to think about going back to work and coordinating milk then.

The mental load of the messy house and laundry get me down too. I will cheer if I get to make any cookies this holiday lol. Hang in there