Remind Me Again Why I'm Doing This

Mr P is 11months and still has at least 4 feeds during the day, and has been having 1-2 overnight for the last couple of months.

Since being pregnant, he has started to graze my nipples (particularly the left) with his teeth when he pulls off, and it is getting really sore. The last couple of days it has been painful to feed off that boob.

It is getting exhausting feeding him, and having him just want to comfort suck at night rather than actually feed - I tried giving him a bottle last night and he drank 20ml before pushing it away and grabbing at my boob and within 5seconds of being on he was settled and asleep. I know if I tell people they will say wean him, but I'm happy to feed him as long as he wants, I just need reassurance I guess that I am doing the right thing and that things will change.

Sorry, just needed to get it out, I don't know what I really expect from this post :rolleyes: so thanks for reading

* Because you are getting exhausted being preganant and having an 11 mnth old - not because you are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding does no *take it out of you* - in fact it is very gentle on your bodily systems.
* because it's a quick way to calm the irritable (almost) todder and allows you to get more rest - you have told me the story yourself - forget all that rocking, patting and crying stuff - a few sucks and they're out for the count.
* Because he needs it
* Because he's just a baby himself
* Because breastfeeding is a short and sweet phase of your life - and you won't get to do it more than a few more times in your life. It's precious.
Doesn't mean you can't have a whinge. Doesn't mean you have to feel like the Madoona. But you are doing the right thing!

You certainly have a lot going on! Sounds like he's very happy to continue. Maybe try going back to basics with latching. Nipples can be very sensitive during pregnancy, and over time we tend to get a bit slack with attachment, so paying a bit more attention might help you out with the pain. Maybe also stick your fingers in there and pop him off when he's done, rather than letting him slide off like that :dunno:

ETA - i forgot to mention all the great reasons to bf a toddler (barb has mentioned some). Definitely worth it. And it does get easier as they get older.

UntoldAngel :comfort: I have no words of wisdom like the other ladies nor the knowledge! But you are definately doing the right thing and there is nothing else in the world that is as unbelievably valuable and 'amazing' as providing your DS with milk from you. I rememebr DD was awful at 11 months with feeding and I think this was a stage where she was feeding 8 times a day :rolleyes: It will get easier and dont be suprised if you turn around tomorrow and he has dropped feeds :lol: this BFing is a crazy thing ;) You are doing well, hun :hug: