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Every part of postpartum

Feeding without the guilt

Breast, bottle, pumping, combo feeding and getting help when it hurts.

4 min readΒ·Written by the Postpartum+ team, checked against public guidanceΒ·Updated

However you feed your baby, it is a full-time job in the early weeks. Breastfeeding, pumping, formula and any combination are all ways of feeding a baby well. The best plan is the one that keeps both of you healthy, including your mental health.

Get help early if

  • Feeding is painful beyond the first few seconds.
  • Baby is not gaining weight or has few wet diapers.
  • You feel dread before feeds, or feeding is consuming your whole day and mood.
  • You are exclusively pumping and running on empty.

Who helps

Lactation consultants (IBCLC) can assess latch, supply and pain. Many hospitals, pediatric practices and WIC offices offer free visits. La Leche League runs free peer meetings. Use the lactation category in Find Care to search near you.

Stopping or changing

Weaning, switching to formula, or combo feeding are legitimate choices. Weaning can bring a temporary hormonal mood dip; going slowly and having support helps.

Drawn from public guidance including La Leche League. Educational only; not medical advice.

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