Is breastfeeding worth it if it hurts my mental health?

If breastfeeding is hurting your mental health, that matters — and it is okay to change course. Your baby can be fed safely with breastmilk, formula, or a combination, and your mental health is an important part of your baby’s care too.

Breastfeeding should not come at the cost of severe anxiety, depression, panic, dread, or worsening sleep deprivation. If feeding is making you feel worse, switching to pumping, combo feeding, or formula feeding may be the healthiest choice for you and your baby.

You do not have to “push through” alone. Reach out to your OB/midwife, pediatrician, lactation consultant, or a postpartum therapist so you can make a feeding plan that supports both your mental health and your baby’s nourishment.