EP mum here. Currently still EP-ing at 14mo and continuing till my supply drops till non existent. For me, the hardest part for EP is not the pumping but the lack of sleep. Regardless of direct latch or EP, you’re definitely gonna lose sleep. After your body gets used to it, EP is pretty much smooth. Just clear your boobs regularly (also control certain food intake) and you can avoid mastitis. I’ve had numerous episodes of mastitis because I kept eating mala 😅.
First 6 months: 3 hourly
6m ~ 10m: 4~4.5 hourly
10m ~ 12m: 5~5.5 hourly
12 months: afternoon 12pm once, midnight 12am once. If your flange size is correct, pumping shouldn’t hurt.
If you feel that breastfeeding is taking a toll on you, it’s totally fine to feed formula. I’m sure most of us were formula fed as well right? :) Don’t bother about those who are full of talks, they are not the ones lacking sleep, washing and feeding. Do what you think is the best and comfortable for yourself.
bbyyaya