Postpartum is filled with emotions, hormones, healing, and a lot of opinions — especially when it comes to feeding your baby. One decision that truly helped my mental health was choosing not to breastfeed.
This is a deeply personal choice, and this post isn’t meant to persuade anyone one way or another. I’m sharing my experience because I know how isolating postpartum can feel, and I want other moms to know they’re not alone if this is the path they choose.
Why I Chose Not to Breastfeed
For me, deciding not to breastfeed removed a huge amount of pressure during an already overwhelming time. It allowed me to:
- Protect my mental health
- Reduce anxiety and stress
- Focus on recovery and bonding
- Share feeding responsibilities more easily
- Feel more present and rested
Postpartum is not the time to push through something that feels heavy just because you think you’re “supposed to.” Mental health matters.
When Your Milk Comes In (Even If You’re Not Breastfeeding)
Even if you choose not to breastfeed, your body doesn’t know that right away. When my milk came in, these things helped the most:
Supportive, Layered Bras
Wearing multiple tight, supportive bras helped minimize stimulation and relieve discomfort. I avoided underwire and focused on compression.
CaboCrème
Applying CaboCrème helped soothe engorgement and discomfort.
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No More Milk Tea
This tea is designed to help dry up milk naturally and gently.
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Avoid Hot Showers
As tempting as hot showers are postpartum, they can actually stimulate milk production. I stuck to warm or cooler water until things settled.
Supplements to Help Dry Up Milk
I also used supplements specifically made to help stop milk production.
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Postpartum Comfort Essentials
Disposable Underwear
Disposable underwear was truly my best friend postpartum. Comfortable, practical, and one less thing to worry about during recovery.
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Showering Every Day
Even a quick shower made a huge difference for my mental health. It helped me feel human again during the early postpartum days.
Tip: Put a pack ‘n play in your bathroom so you can shower without feeling rushed or anxious.
Matching Pajama Sets
I bought a few cute matching pajama sets, and while it seems small, feeling a little put together helped my mindset more than I expected. You don’t need real clothes — just pajamas that feel intentional.
Other Things That Helped Me Postpartum
- Lowering my expectations and reminding myself that rest is productive
- Creating small “care stations” around the house
- Keeping lighting soft and calm, especially at night
- Muting group chats or social media when it felt overwhelming
- Letting myself say, “Today is hard” without guilt
- Giving myself permission to heal at my own pace
A Gentle Reminder
Choosing not to breastfeed does not make you less of a mom.
Protecting your mental health is part of taking care of your baby.
If you’re reading this and struggling with the decision — or feeling guilt after making it — know that you’re not alone. You’re doing the best you can, and that is more than enough.
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.