A tricky question that lots of new Mums face with pressures about what you should do from every direction. Here is a guest blog by Nisha.
Every new mum will face the important decision of how she will nourish her baby. Will she breastfeed or use formula in a bottle? Wars break out on internet message boards when this topic comes up. Mothers tend to feel strongly and can be very defensive about their personal decision. It is, of course, a personal decision. There are pros and cons to either choice. Thankfully, we have options available. Most babies, regardless of their source of infant nutrition, grow into healthy adults.
Breastfeeding
Pros:
- Experts have asserted that there are nutritional and immune system benefits to breastfeeding.
- Breastfeeding is cost effective because your body supplies the milk for the baby.
- Many mothers love the intimacy of feeding their baby in such a personal way.
- With no bottles to wash and sterilize, breastfeeding can be a time saver as well.
- Breastfeeding has been linked to easier weight loss after birth.
Cons:
- Only mum can feed the child unless she expresses her breasts and prepares a bottle.
- Pumping and storing breast milk can be challenging for a working mum.
- Some women have trouble getting into a routine and allowing their milk to regulate.
- Chapped or sore nipples can accompany breastfeeding.
- Mum needs to watch her diet.
- Feeding your baby in public can be tricky and some mums have been challenged for it.
Bottle Feeding
Pros:
- Dad and Grandma can feed the baby.
- Formula has been studied and approved by the FDA and is guaranteed to have nutrients and vitamins for the baby.
- Ready-made, concentrate and powder versions are available for your convenience.
- You can feed the baby anywhere without much of an issue.
Cons:
- Formula can be expensive.
- Bottles and nipples need to be sterilized and prepared.
- Formula can be harder to digest and may lead to constipation.
- Babies are more likely to experience reflux and gas with formula.
Experts agree that while formula will provide your baby with everything necessary to thrive, breast milk is still the best choice. If breastfeeding is not for you, rest assured that your baby will do just fine on formula. Don’t get caught up in the social pressure to conform to what another mother, or group of mothers, wants you to do. This is your baby and these are your choices. Be confident in your choices for your child. You don’t have to explain it or get permission from anyone else. Enjoy feeding your baby and use this as a time to bond.
The following article is written by Nisha, who loves to write about parenting, children and give advice to mums, you can visit her website Babyplanet.biz
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