Making the Decision to Formula Feed or Breast Feed Your Baby

One of the first decisions you make as a new mom is how to feed your baby. Most women already have their minds made up before the baby is even born.

First, it should be noted that the decision is an extremely personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. Yes, breastfeeding is better, overall, but there are circumstances that make bottle feeding a better choice. If you have any concerns whatsoever, talk to your doctor or health care practitioner.

If you decide to bottle-feed, don’t feel guilty, no matter what other women or community groups say. Many try to shame women into choosing breastfeeding, but that is nothing more than bullying. Some women simply don’t feel comfortable with the idea of breastfeeding; others can’t do it for medical reasons.

Advantages of Breastfeeding

• Breastfeeding is the optimal solution for your baby’s health, especially for the first 48 hours. It has essential vitamins and nutrients needed to help your baby grow and develop.
• Breastfeeding is a great way for baby and mom to bond. The skin-to-skin contact has been proven to builder stronger bonds between moms and babies.
• Breastfed babies are generally healthier, and have lower instances of infections and illnesses
• Moms who breastfeed burn more calories; thus can get back to their pre-pregnancy weight faster
• No need to sterilize bottles or warm up the formula; breast milk is always ready and always at the right temperature.
• It doesn’t cost a thing!

Disadvantages of Breastfeeding

• Your breasts are likely to feel swollen and engorged; sore nipples can also be a concern
• Dad may feel left out, and have less of a chance to bond with the baby
• You will have to watch what you eat – no spicy foods, etc.
• It’s difficult to measure how much milk your baby is consuming
• It can be difficult to constantly pump and store milk, especially if you go back to work and leave your baby with a day care provider or babysitter.

Advantages of Formula

• Commercially prepared formula can be just as nutritious for your baby, and is enriched with extra iron and other nutrients that your baby needs.
• Many of the ingredients in formula is modeled after the natural ingredients that are present in breast milk.
• Formula that has been enriched with iron have proven to reduce the number of infants suffering from anemia
• Dad can help feed the baby which will help the bonding process. This also frees up your time so you can do other things.
• Babies who are bottle fed usually sleep longer between feedings

 

Disadvantages of Breastfeeding

• It can be costly, and you’ll have to include formula and bottles in your budget
• Bottle fed babies may be prone to illness such as diarrhea ,  constipation and ear infections
• Bottle feeding requires planning; you have to make sure the bottles are sterilized and ready when you need them.
• Formula may have to be mixed with water and heated before serving

Remember that choosing the method you feed your baby is a personal one and only you can decide what’s best for you and your little one. You can save some money on baby formula by using enfamil coupons on a regular basis.