I'm having a hard time with whether or not to breast feed. Between my boyfriend and I, breast play has always been an important part of our sex life and I'm having a really hard time associating it with our soon to be born son. Everyone tells me I'm crazy and it won't feel remotely the same, but I can't get it out of my head. That being said, it's the only reason I don't want to breast feed. The best compromise I can think of is to pump exclusively and bottle feed him. Has anyone else felt this way or tried this? How has it worked out? Lastly, what is the best type of bottle/nipple for a breast fed baby? I would still like his father to be able to help out with nighttime feedings also.

I completely appreciate your honesty, and I understand how you are feeling, but I believe that breastfeeding is one of the most sweet, beautiful, amazing and unselfish things that you can do for your baby! Not to mention it promotes a bond that is so great, you are doing something for your baby that no one else can do!

As far as breasts being sexual, they definitly are that. I think that breasts are a HUGE part of everyone's foreplay -they are a major erogenous zone. However, keep in mind that sexual foreplay is a breast's secondary role. The primary reason that we have them are for feeding our offspring. Sex will most likely be the furthest thing from your mind while you are breastfeeding (not to mention you don't want to think about sex for several weeks after delivery:lol

As far as pumping goes, it is hard work! Yes, your baby still gets the amazing benefits from your breastmilk, but constantly pumping and washing pump parts and washing bottles, and freezing/storing milk is a full-time job! I pumped several times for my last baby, but I cannot imagine doing it for every feeding. (Of course I would if needed, just not my first option)

You should definitely just try breastfeeding. It is so convenient not having to wash and tote bottles around everywhere. It is very hard at first, but very worth it if you can get through the first 2 weeks. I won't lie, it is a bit of a sacrifice, but the convenience and benefits far outweigh the sacrifice. Your partner is going to have to give them over to the baby for a few months, otherwise he risks getting squirted with breastmillk (Hey, it happens) but maybe that's a risk they are willing to take.

Good luck and sorry for the novel (I am obviously a huge advocate for breastfeeding).

I won't breast feed for similar reasons. My two older children (15 & 16 yrs) turned out just fine, and we are very close. My MIL is tryin to guilt me into breastfeeding. I told her if she feels so strongly about it to have another child of her own & she can breastfeed all she wants. I am due in 13 days with my third and plan on formula feeding from the start. Sorry if that upsets anyone, but I know that is what works for me.