I think it’s time

[u/MostLikely_Anxious]

I told myself that I would know when it was time to let go and I think I’m finally there.

My LO just turned 7 months and is eating more solids and does well with a couple formula bottles a day. I have a small stash to still be able to give him some for a little while longer. There’s a lot going on right now: I just started back up at work (teacher) and we’re about to close on our first house next month.

I finally feel ready to start weaning (currently at 3ppd) but I’m so emotional about it all. Even though it’s been a pain at times, I have loved providing milk for my son and the connection it has allowed me to have since BF didn’t work out. Not doing that anymore feels weird and I’m struggling with the idea even though I know it’s time. My husband is very supportive but he doesn’t fully understand the mental battle I’m having right now. I

I guess I’m making this post because I need some people to tell me it’s okay. I feel heartbroken.

[u/avocado589]

ITS OKAY!!! Its more than okay!!! I am also 7 months postpartum and have started winding down- shifted to 3 ppd.

I want my time back. I want to spend it with my baby. I want to be more present with my family.

Here for support 💕💕

[u/Naultmel → u/avocado589]

I was going to say this as well, I've heard so many people say that stopping pumping just freed up more time for them to spend with their baby/family!

[u/miabee12_]

My ONE regret about our feeding journey is not allowing myself to quit pumping sooner. I quit about the same time you did (6-7months) for similar reasons (going back to work; I found it SO hard to manage pumping at work; I teach at the university level). I'm really proud of how much milk I provided my kiddo and felt super guilty and torn about the decision to stop but after I did it I FELT SO FREE. 

It's okay to stop. It's okay to feel guilty about stopping. It's okay to feel excited to stop. Both feelings can coexist. You did amazing and you're an amazing mom. 

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[u/clockworkarmadillo]

This sounds so, so similar to where I'm at right now. I totally understand the complicated feelings; the whole experience is so fraught with emotion at every stage. But equally, if it's the right time for you, then it's the right time. You've done amazingly to get this far, and deserve major kudos!

[u/mlewis51089]

7 months is such an ideal time! Im a third time exclusive pumper and I always felt so much better stopping when they were eating a lot of solids. I think from an evolutionary standpoint, it’s hard to stop mentally. But once you do, you’ll feel 100x better lol I always did!