One of the most important things to consider when you’re having a child is whether you want to breastfeed or give your baby formula. This is something that will impact the rest of baby’s life, but there are good things about both. Here is a look at breastfeeding and formula, so you can make an informed decision regarding your newborn.
Breastfeeding
Many people already know that breast milk is the perfect food for babies. It has all the vitamins and minerals they need to grow big and strong, and it is natural, so it doesn’t have weird chemicals and other things in it. Babies that drink breast milk are also less likely to contract many different types of disorders and conditions, and may be healthier overall.
Besides that, it can help mom’s health out too. It is able to protect you from a number of different types of diseases and also allows you time to spend with your baby. The first year of a child’s life is a precious time, so feeding them is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Another great thing about breast milk is that you can pump it and use it later, in case you were planning to be away from your baby for a short amount of time, or you have something else that you need to do. This also helps if you’re a working mom.
On the flip side, every woman is not able to produce breast milk, or simply has problems breast feeding. Even women that could produce milk with one child can have problems with subsequent pregnancies.
You may also be on prescriptions or other substances that baby shouldn’t be drinking. If you are your child’s food supply, you have to be very careful about what you eat and drink, which can be very stressful for some new moms. This is why some choose formula instead.
Formula Feeding
Besides just being more convenient, formula can also make sure that your baby has something to eat when you just can’t produce milk. There are so many options out there as far as formulas go, so you don’t have to worry that it is made with things that you don’t want around your child.
If you use formula, this can also give dad an opportunity to feed baby, which may be something that he felt he was missing out on. You also won’t have to watch what you eat and you’ll be able to plan the meals out rather well. Babies that drink formula don’t have to eat as often as when they’re breastfed, so it is a little less work for you.
Other Concerns
If you are still trying to decide the right course of action, it is essential for you to know that many mothers use a combination of the two to feed their children. In general, moms try to breastfeed as much as they can, but when they can’t produce enough milk, or have something else going on, they will give their children formula.
No matter which way you choose to feed your child, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. There are many moms that have done it before, and there are many children that turned out just fine. You may feel guilty if you can’t breastfeed your child, but you shouldn’t, since sometimes that is not the mother’s fault.
If you are still concerned, you can also look into foods that will increase or decrease milk supply, so you know what you should and shouldn’t be eating. You may also want to discuss your concerns with your doctor or other moms that you trust.
Making a Decision
There are good things about breast feeding and using formula, so you should make sure you do a little more research on your own to figure out which one you feel more comfortable with. Many people try to breastfeed first and use formula as a backup plan. However, you should do what you feel is the best solution and stick to a plan. Talk to your partner about it and make sure you have all the tools you need to be successful. It is a big decision to make, and it can keep your baby safe and healthy.