After not having the birth I wanted I was determined more than ever to have at least one thing I wanted happen for me and my daughter. I started breastfeeding with enthusiasm and perserverance to ensure me and Isobel were comfortable.

To be honest breastfeeding got easy at 10 days, then 6 weeks. Isobel is now 13 weeks old. For about 3-4 weeks now I have felt increasing tired and frustrated with breastfeeding. It gives neither me or Isobel the freedom to explore the outside world as much as I'd like us to when she is growth spurting (this seems to be every other day at the moment). Sometimes she feeds every 2 hours during the day and between 3 and 4 at night (if I am lucky 7 hours). Occasionally she'll feed for 2-3 hours at a time. I don't feel the bond there was at the beginning. I feel like a constant teat and in my mind there is always one breast is always exposed.

Don't get me wrong there are many advantages to breastfeeding. In the beginning it forged a bond between us. Feeds were 3-4 hours apart, Isobel looked at me during them and it felt good to be able to provide her with something no one else could. As time passes this has phased out, Isobel becomes more aware of her surroundings, takes in all around her and I love introducing new ideas for play.

So after exclusively breastfeeding since week 3 we're trying to once again combine feed and I'll start to express breast milk with a view to Isobel being on a bottle fully by 6 months. This phases in with her being able to take solids and then in 4.5 months my return to work. At the moment it is proving difficult so if you have any tips at all I'd be glad for them!