It is important to ensure that the newest addition to your family is getting all the proper vitamins and nutrients to promote overall great health. How to choose between breastfeeding and baby formula? Consider the advantages and disadvantages of baby formula and breastfeeding before making your decision.
Baby Formula
One of the advantages of putting your baby on a formula is that it is convenient. It can be a big help and possible relief when your baby is drinking formula from a bottle. Bottle feeding makes it easier for family members or a child care provider to take over while the mother gets back on her feet. Convenience also plays a big role when going out in public. It allows you to feed your baby with ease and comfort in situations that could make breastfeeding difficult. Another advantage of infant formula is the fact that it's safe and contains the vitamins and nutrients your baby needs to grow and progress.
For some moms, breastfeeding isn’t an option -- and that’s okay. If you just don’t produce enough milk, or breast feeding and pumping around the clock becomes overwhelming, formula is a great alternative to breast milk. If you’re struggling to breastfeed, WIC programs and hospitals often provide lactation consultants to help you figure things out.
There are also quite a few disadvantages to formula feeding, with one being that formula takes longer to digest and may cause diarrhea or constipation in your baby. Another downfall is that bottle feeding can get expensive. On top of that, you will have to keep upgrading or replacing your bottle and nipple supply. Lastly, there is a lot of work required when it comes to preparing your baby's bottle. You have to clean and sterilize the bottles and nipples, store baby formula in the refrigerator, and heat it up for each feeding.
Breastfeeding
Breast milk is admittedly much prefered over formula in the neonatal medical community. It is not only tailormade to provide your baby with exactly the nutrients she needs, but can provide some major emotional and developmental benefits for baby. Some of the best benefits of breastfeeding is that it's natural, free, and healthy for both the mother and the baby. Breastfeeding helps mothers to lose their "baby fat" faster, as well as helping the uterus to contract after birth.
Breast milk is always ready and at the right temperature. It promotes clear vision, healthy jaws and teeth, and supports your baby's intelligence. Breast feeding also reduces the risk of infections, colds, asthma, allergies, diabetes, obesity, and more. A plus side for the whole family is the production of less smelly diapers.
The negative effects of breastfeeding deal with having painful or sore nipples and breasts. Sometimes it may hurt when the baby latches on or your nipples become sore from constant sucking. The more your baby drinks, the more milk your breasts will produce. Breasts full of milk can sometimes be painful too. Some women find breastfeeding simply uncomfortable, while others can't produce enough milk. Sometimes the decision to breast or formula feed is simply out of your control.
Your pediatrician knows best, as he or she will provide you with all the help and information you need to produce a healthy child. Be sure to have all your questions and concerns ready before your delivery.
