First of all big i had a terrible time BFing DD1 by 3 weeks i was solely expressing for her. I hired a pump from the chemist (same as the ones in hosy) and used that up until dd was 7 weeks. I found it too hard to keep going so switched to formular. It is doable and i know a lady who did it with no problems. I just found that i'd express then feed and felt like i was double handling and spending twice as long as necessary to feed. I guess it depends on how much you want to do it iykwim. I felt guilty putting DD on formular but i was beginning to get down and IMO you need a happy mummy to keep bubby happy. I wanted to enjoy feeding her. My problems too started whilst i was in hospital with severly traumatised nipples and once home i got a thrush infection that i could not clear up. I dreaded BFing and cried knowing she was due for a feed, during the feed (from pain) and then for feeling resentful towards her and my body for not allowing me to do it with ease.
I have just had my 2nd DD (almost 5 weeks ago- oh time flies) and i was petrified throughout my whole pg of BFing. I was certain i would not go through the pain i did last time. My aim was to try and at the first sign of trouble i was adamant i would put her on formular again. However this time around she attached beautifully from the word go and we have not had a problem to date. I am now a true believer that it is all up to the baby and if i ever have no 3 i will do the same again and try but will not go down the path i did with DD1, i am not against formular.
The decision is entirely yours and your DH's and at the end of the day as long as you and bub are happy and healthy. I just thought i'd share my story so you know it may not be as bad as last time if you decide to try. i am suprised at myself at how much i am enjoying it.