can i breast feed this time?

Hi all i'm 6 months pregnant with our 3rd child.
I've never breast fed before, but am considering it this time.
But i'm not sure if i can, seen as i haven't before.
I lost a lot of blood with my first and didn't seem to leak much, there was more with my 2nd, but again i didn't want to breastfeed, i wanted to share the bottle feeds, have a routine. Since my second i've heard so many good things about the breastfeedig, and also i feel i did most of the bottle feeds anyway.
I dont see my midwife for a few more weeks, but can anyone give me any info on breastfeeding, signs that i shouldn't, things i would have to consider first of all.
I would be really greatful
thanks
Emz

Umm well i'm not going to pretend to be an expert as i didn't BF my 1st and i only exclusively fed my 2nd for a few days but i did carry on mixed feeding until he was around 3mths. The fact that you didn't leak a lot with your first doesn't mean you won't be able to feed. I didn't leak at all with my 2 and i had enough milk come in fine, although it did take me about 5days to get a proper milk supply rather than the average of about 3days. If you feel it is something you would like to try i would say go for it. It is difficult to anticipate problems before they arise. I would just take things one step at a time and deal with any problems as and when. If it doesn't work then you know you tried and it certainly isn't the end of the world but you never know you and your LOmay be naturals? Good luck with making your decision hun! Xx

go for it !!

it sounds like a great idea

make sure you find out about breast feeding groups and support in your area because only a handfull of people take to it like a duck to water

most of us need some advice and support

I know i'm replying a bit late. Although there are always reasons why some ladies are unable to or choose not to breastfeed, most will not know these until they try. There are very few physiological reasons why you wouldn't be able to and breastfeeding even for a short time provides your baby with lots of really really brilliant things that help their immune system. Plus it's always the right temperature and you never have to worry about sterlising bottles etc and it's a whole lot cheaper too! That said follow the advice above and make sure you have really good support groups etc (your local NCT probably have breastfeeeding support groups locally if your doctor or health visitor can't pout you in the right direction) as it is often a challenge and sometimes you have to really dig in and stick with it. It's absolutely worth trying it though. Good luck xx

Hello. I breastfed exclusively for 6 months with my 2nd baby but I only managed 2 weeks with my first. All you can do is try. Hope you have success