Scheduling IVF Procedure While Still Breastfeeding

We are scheduled for In Vitro later this month.  One RE told me I could still breastfeed a maximum of 1-2 times a day and not have it affect my chances much, if at all. The other RE said if I wanted the best chance, I should not be breast feeding at all starting with my last period before the IVF.  So, we worked on weaning and Elijah is down to one before-bedtime feeding.  I started my period yesterday and bottle fed him last night.  Now I have to really decide...do I breastfeed him tonight and continue once a night (my heart is having a hard time with stopping and I don't know why; he was fine...milk is milk as far long as cuddling is involved) or do I stop all together (which my head says is the best thing to do).   Does anyone know why chances of pregnancy might decrease if I continue to breastfeed; we all know women who have been surprised by a pregnancy while breastfeedingg :-)  Any words of advice or encouragement? 

Jennifer

I'm thinking it's because nipple stimulation causes your uterus to contract which is the last thing you want to happen when you are trying to have a baby implant via IVF. 

However, women that breastfeed get pregnant all the time so, I don't know.   I'm sure the injectable hormones are also a factor as to why they are telling you to stop. 

You want my personal opinion?  Stop.  Why spend all that money and not do everything in your power to make it the best cycle possible? 

I'm sure it's going to be hard, but your bond will not be any less. 

Thanks so much, Julie; you're so right.  I did decide to stop and we're both doing just fine.  Congratulations (VERY belated) on your adorable babies and the newest wee one on the way!

Jennifer

I know it is such a hard decision and really nobody can tell you what to do, but at the same time my advice is like Julie's......why spend all the money, time, effort to do IVF if you're not going to do everything you can to get the positive result?  If you can't quit breastfeeding, then maybe you could wait on the IVF a little bit?  Or just go ahead and maybe I'm wrong.  Good luck to you whatever you choose to do!!  I will be hoping to hear about your BFP!

Thank you!  I did decide to stop and all is well.  I really appreciate your advice.

Jennifer