Many moms struggle with deciding when faced with this question: breast feeding or bottle feeding? It is essential to note that both options are valid, and the decision should be made by the mother and her doctor.
The medical community all agree that breastfeeding is the healthiest option for the mom and baby, both nutritionally and emotionally – however, not all women can breastfeed successfully. There are many milk alternatives on the market that can mimic the nutrients of breast milk. These options help ensure a healthy baby and a happy mom.
Why Would A Woman Not Be Able To Breastfeed?
Some moms don’t produce enough milk in their ducts to sustain a baby sufficiently. Many factors can result in the mom having a low milk supply during breastfeeding.
Sometimes moms wait too long after giving birth to start breastfeeding, or they do not do it often enough to trigger the supply and demand in the glands.
Previous breast surgery affects milk production too.
Other factors can include:
- Premature birth;
- A mother who suffers from obesity;
- Supplementing breastfeeding;
- An ineffective latch;
- Using certain medications;
- Pregnancy-induced high blood pressure; and
- Poorly managed diabetes.
Many moms worry about having a low milk supply, but insufficient breast milk production is rare. Most mums produce at least 33% more breast milk than their babies need.
The Benefits Of Breast Milk
Even though there are alternatives to breastfeeding, there are definite benefits that come with choosing to breastfeed and give your baby breast milk. This is true even if you primarily pump and bottle feed.
Breast milk is nature’s source of nutrition for babies, and moms’ bodies are designed to keep up with the production needs as the baby grows. As the baby ages and its nutritional needs change, the mom’s body will adjust the breast milk to meet her baby’s nutritional requirements.
This helps stave off any potential illnesses. Breastfed babies are less likely to develop asthma, diabetes, or SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
Preventing SIDS
Sudden infant death syndrome is a condition in which a baby stops breathing without any medical reason why.
It is a phenomenon that is still being investigated by medical practitioners today. It is devastating for families who lose a baby to this condition.
Breastfed babies are less prone to developing lung and diaphragm conditions such as asthma and experience a lower chance of passing away due to SIDS.
Breast Milk Is An Immune Booster
The mum’s antibodies are transferred to the child, and this helps the body develop a strong immune system. Our immune systems are vital in protecting us from illness. This is especially important for babies as their immune systems aren’t fully functional straight out of the womb and need to be cultivated.
Convenience For Moms
If you find yourself on the road for longer than expected or out and about with a baby, you are unlikely to run out of breastmilk, compared to having to pack enough formula and bottles.
Medical Society clinics have experts who focus on maternal health both during gestation and postpartum, as well as lactation and nutrition experts to ensure your and your baby’s well-being.
Bonding, Mental Health And More For Mom!
The connection and bonding during breastfeeding can provide beneficial psychological effects for both baby and mom.
These benefits include lowering stress hormones like cortisol and increasing feelings of calm, Web MD reports in a dissertation on breastfeeding and the positive effects for moms. Having skin-to-skin time increases feelings of positive emotions for the baby.
Additionally, breastfeeding could reduce a mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Disadvantages Of Breastfeeding
There are some psychological disadvantages to breastfeeding that should be noted.
Mothers who suffer from postnatal depression or other mental afflictions associated with the birth of their child might not feel comfortable breastfeeding.
Many women also dislike the feeling of ‘entrapment’ that comes with having a baby latch for a feed, sometimes for up to an hour.
Working moms may not be able to breastfeed as often as they want. They benefit from being able to have someone else feed the baby. This can be either formula or pre-pumped breast milk.
Breastfeeding can also be physically painful for moms, which is a deterrent for some women.
Potential Side Effects of Breastfeeding
- Painful, cracked nipples;
- Breast engorgement;
- Mastitis;
- Plugged milk ducts;
- Fungal infections; and
- Pain due to pumping.
Some moms don’t produce enough milk, and babies can be left feeling hungry and cranky. In these cases, supplementing breast milk with formula is crucial to ensure that the baby gets optimum nutrients.
Can I Breastfeed And Bottle Feed?
Alternating between breastfeeding and bottle feeding is perfectly safe. It’s important to note that you should be using a good quality formula, as milk is the only way your baby accesses nutrients.
You can speak to your midwife, nurse, or GP for guidance on choosing the best formula for your baby’s needs.
