This is a common question asked by many soon to be mothers.
I want to know if I should breast feed, but I don't want my breasts to sag. So would there be any difference if I used a breast pump and just gave it to the baby in a bottle? I know its better for the baby, but what will my side effects be?
There are many answers to this question.. Some of those answers are below.
April 4th, 2009 at 7:58 am
Well your breast might sag either way. Look at it this way though..eventually gravity catches up with us all anyway!!
April 7th, 2009 at 3:34 am
The pump will be worse for your breasts sagging. You should breastfeed, as it is less stressful for both you and the baby.
April 7th, 2009 at 4:09 am
I don’t see how it would make a difference whether you breastfed or pumped. Pumping would be a lot more work. Wear a well-fitted and supportive bra.
April 9th, 2009 at 7:59 am
it wont matter whether you feed or pump, if they are gonna sag, they are gonna sag, it’s because they get bigger then get smaller again.
some people sag very bad, and some people hardly at all
April 11th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
Both actions have exactly the same consequences on your breasts. Make sure you wear well fitting bras and position bubs correctly and you’ll be fine. Breastfeeding creates a closeness and bond that nothing can rival – it is the most beautiful thing in the world, and from someone who had the very same concerns as you 12 months ago and is STILL feeding to this day, let me tell you, feed bubs yourself. You won’t be sorry. Good luck
April 15th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
There’s no difference. The pregnancy itself is what makes your breast sag, since they get bigger during, and then after usually get smaller, which causes the skin to become looser. Breastfeeding is better because the baby can get more milk out that way than you can pumping. Pumping is good for going out or going back to work though.
April 18th, 2009 at 10:16 pm
Holding an infant in your arms and breast feeding him/her is the greates feeling in the world!!!!! Do you also realize by breastfeeding, you can get back into shape faster……………
Besides, your boobs will not sag until you hit menopause!
April 20th, 2009 at 7:48 am
Breast is Best!!!
April 21st, 2009 at 11:02 pm
both and they might sag anyway, in time
April 22nd, 2009 at 2:26 pm
You really need to do whats best for you.
If your worried about sagging I’m sorry to tell you you have had a baby and that will happen but not that bad. i had a baby 6 mths ago and am still breast feeding an my breast have not really sagged. all i have found is that they are a little larger then they were.you need to do whats best for you. weigh up the pros and cons if your going to give breast milk do whats more comfortable to you.
good luck
April 25th, 2009 at 1:57 am
the sagging dsoent come from the baby eating from your breast, it somes from them filling up with milk and expanding and deflating on a constant basis! If you are too worried about it, id formula feed, and maybe only breast feed for a few weeks.
April 26th, 2009 at 10:09 am
You can do either….Pumping won’t make them sag any less, but it may make your nipples larger. If you know that Breast is Best……then why worry about the vanity of it? You will be giving your baby a very healthy start at life and if you decide to breastfeed right from the breast, you will create a bond that no other person could ever have with your baby…it truly is a wonderful and special experience. Dad can hold the baby, play with the baby, even change the baby….but Only YOU will be able to breastfeed your baby…for me, that feels very empowering!
Good luck and Congrats!
April 26th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
breastfeeding is definately better. even though your baby may still get all the minerals and nutrients from your breast milk in a bottle, there is no substitute for the bonding between parent and infant when breastfeeding takes place.
April 27th, 2009 at 7:43 am
Breast feed. Not only does it not sag your beasts so much but it also brings you and your child closer. Or so it is said. Congrats on your baby
Kimimila
April 28th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
I nurse my son and pump on occasion. Go to a maternaty store, and get fitted for a good nursing bra! If you properly support them as they grow, the elastic tissue in your breast will not get stretched as bad, and they won’t sag too much. You also need to sleep in your bra! I got some softer comfie cotton ones to sleep in. And even though the underwire makes them look good, it can lead to mastitis when your milk comes in. I learned that the hard way!
I will have to agree, breast feeding your baby is the most wonderful feeling in the whole world. The bond is amazing.
May 1st, 2009 at 3:09 am
I nursed three children and if you wear a good supportive bra and don’t let yourself go too long you shouldn’t have to worry about sagging. nutritionally breast milk is the same no matter what it comes out of. keep in mind it is easier not to use the bottle and more hygienic. best wishes
May 2nd, 2009 at 11:00 am
Giving your child breastmilk by any means necessary is the best option for your baby, no matter what. That being said, the previous respondents are right, your breast are destined to succumb to gravity no matter what at this point. Welcome to the club!
Breastfeeding, however, is SO much more beneficial to you and your baby. The side effects to you are as follows:
Less stress over feeding sessions, as there is no prep work necessary (pumping, bottles, etc…)
More time to rest, as breastfeeding forces you to actually SIT DOWN and relax while feeding.
Quicker and more complete bonding with your child, especially if you feed on demand.
You will be more sensitive to baby’s hunger cues, resulting in a more content, happier child.
A potentially longer period of breastfeeding overall, since it tends to be more positive, rewarding, and less of a hassle than pumping and bottlefeeding. This is healthier for your child and for you in the long run.
Extended breastfeeding also puts you at a lower risk for breast cancer later on in life.
Best of luck to you and your family,
Hope this helps!
May 3rd, 2009 at 7:29 pm
Either way your breasts will sag. It is best to go ahead and breastfeed instead of pumping. I heard pumping is harder on you.