Our son is not going to sleep in our bed. We have a dog who likes to jump in the bed, a husband who likes to flop around and sleep through earthquakes, and a wife who needs her space--being touched when I'm sleepy is not going to happen.
I am also switching him to formula at 3-4 months when I go back to work after summer vacation. It just isn't logistically possible to pump or breast feed as a teacher. I am out of the house from 7 am until 4 pm at the shortest, and the only break I get is a 30 minute lunch (not long enough to pump, eat, and use the bathroom!). Two days a week I have a 60 minute planning period the first period of the day (doesn't really help me space things out, especially only twice a week). I am not going to let my job performance suffer or turn my life upside down to breastfeed. In all honesty, if it's a challenge, we aren't going to do it at all and DH 100% supports me in that. I am not paying $1000's of dollars for lactation consultants and supports and extra therapy visits due to stress when formula will do the job just fine.
And delivery? Bring on the drugs. To each and all their own, but there is no way I'm turning down something that is going to make the process less stressful for all involved. Drug me up, hand me a nice, cleaned up baby, and all will be well.
We will take care of baby's needs fully, but I am not going to make myself miserable just because someone guilt trips me into it.
Your posts, for some reasons, sound, to me, that you're still a bit resenting this pregnancy and unsure about the new baby & the changes he'll bring to your life upon his arrival
. It's almost like you're planning & preparing for how much you're going to love him, how much you're going to let him change your lifestyle... and try to control the situation as much as possible.
If I'm completely off base, I'm sorry. Its just the feelings I get when reading your posts in this thread...
But, if I'm not, then the only advice I can offer you is, please don't worry too much. A mother's love for her son comes naturally. You may be surprised to find out how much you're willing to sacrifice for him. You may find that the "most important" thing in your life prior to your son's arrival is suddenly second to him now. This incredible love comes so naturally that you may not even notice all the changes in your approach to everything.. until it's too late lol, but it's strong enough to make you do absolutely everything in your power & more to ensure his wellbeing & happiness & to protect him from any dangers.
I've always been working fulltime while having both kids, but managed to nurse Katie until 18 months, and still breastfeed Titi (she's 15 month now). I firmly believe that this contributed greatly to the fact that my kids are very rarely get sick (Both kids had never have any fevers, nor ear infections, thus far *knock on wood*). With Katie, I pumped until she was 1, but with TiTi, I didn't pump at all... once returned to work, I only nurse her in the evening -> next morning.
Both kids co-slept with us... I totally understand the reasons you're not choosing to do so & support them. Co-sleeping was our choice and worked for us doesn't mean it will be the same for others. Having the baby right next to me gives me the peace of mind to fall asleep, plus it makes nursing during the nights so much easier/faster/convenience
As far as the birthing process is concerned, be prepared for .. surprises
. For example, you want epidurals, but may be too advance by the time you get to the hospital for it, or you want a natural birth, but may need an emergency C-section, etc... Just be open and go with the flow. The baby will be safe & sound in your arm before you know it & his eyes looking at yours for the 1st time will make you forget what you've just gone through minutes ago