Formula or Breastfeeding...co-sleeping or in the crib from day one, traditional diaper or cloth...so many decisions that you have to make before your precious baby takes their first breath. We will start with breastfeeding...
A brief history of formula
Our society was turned on to formula in the early 19th century but it was only available though a prescription from a physician and was very expensive. In 1959 Similac and Enfamil began wide spread campaigns to convince mothers that formula feeding was best for baby and mom. These companies pushed the notion that formula was more nutritious and safer in addition to being easier for mom because she can get help from others ( that I can't argue with) and by 1970 over 75% of babies in the US were on formula. Breastfeeding became taboo and many women honestly thought that formula was better then breastmilk.
So, Similac and Enfamil took their show on the global road and tried to push formula in various third world Countries. This was not a good idea and many children died. Unlike in the US clean water was not available to these women. They prepared bottles of formula for their children with water that was teeming with bacteria and viruses. Without the antibodies that are present in brestmilk these tiny babies were unable to fight of a whole host of nasty illnesses and died. The companies have pulled out of these Countries without so much as an apology.
With that said, when formula was first created it did have many benefits for children here in the US and Europe where children were dying from malnutrition and medical problems like rickets when their mothers were unable to produce a sufficient milk supply and unable to afford a wet nurse.
Breast is best
"Breastfeeding is best" you hear it all the time when you are pregnant. I will not sit here and tell you that breastfeeding is easy. Like most things worth wile in life it take preparation, education and handwork...although it will get easier as time goes by. Support is the most difficult part when you decide to breastfeed. So many women have formula fed for the last few decades, it is no longer just as simple as calling your mom or family member with questions. I was fortunate to
have an easy go at it this time around but not so many women are as
lucky. Let's explore the pros and cons of breastfeeding for both mom and baby.
pros:
* Yes, you will lose weight faster if you breastfeed. Breastfeeding burns around 500 additional calories a day
* It is easier in the sense that you don't have to sterlize bottles or prepare them
* Breastfeeding causes a release of the hormone oxytocin(the chemical of love) and helps to creates a bond between you and your baby.
* Protects against ear infections, colds, and viruses: If the child does
have any of the above, the severity will most likely be lessened because
of the protection of antibodies passed from the mother to the breastmilk.
* Easier for baby to digest: It is almost impossible to have a constipated breastfed baby!
* Women who breastfeed can cut their breast cancer risk by 60%
* You will save money..Formula can cost anywhere from 10$-30$ a can and you could easily go though 10-12 cans a month. That is a yearly cost of 1200$ - 3600$. If your child needs special formula for an allergy or sentivity issue the cost could be more.
Cons:
* You will be tired, especially in the beginning. Newborn babies typically feed
every 2 to 3 hours during the day and may awaken frequently at night because of the easy digestion of breast milk. Breastfeeding takes a lot of energy for your body to make milk, so the mother can often feel quite fatigued.
* When you need a break..and you will. Someone will need feed the baby with a bottle and the mother still has to pump to keep her supply up and prevent uncomfortable engorgement.
* There can be a certain amount of anxiety and frustration while a mother and baby are learning the process. Use your resources at your local hospital if they have a
lactation consultant available, most do. Join your local
La Leche League and use your greatest resource, other women.
* Sometimes
mothers have physical problems like mastitis, plugged milk ducts,
engorgement if the baby is not feeding frequently or properly, oversupply, under supply and fast letdown issues. These can all be overcome but it take research and support.
* Working
mothers can find it challenging to schedule nursings. It would be necessary
to pump at work and some jobs may not allow for such breaks (they
should, but some do not comply).
* Pumps can be expensive. They can range from 50$ to 400$ or more. In my honest opinion most 50$ pumps are just as good as a 400$ pump. I personally like my manual hand pump more then my 300$ Medela but it is more about personal preference.
Tips:
* Try to relax and don't get upset if the expience of breastfeeding is not what you built it up in your head..Actually, if you can't let go of any and all expections that would be best, but easier said then done.
* I have said it before and I will say it again...USE your resources! You will need help, advice and support. It is okay to need help that does not mean your not a good mom...The first night I was home from the hospital with Aubrey she nursed every hour to hour and a half. I knew something wasn't right and I was exhausted but instead of freaking out I had this conversation with her.." You can use me as a pacifier tonight but first thing in the morning we are calling the hospital lactation consultant and you will give me a break" At 8 am I was on the phone and by 12pm there was an amazing nurse at my house. Twenty minutes with her straightened it all out and I passed out cold along with Aubrey at 3pm.
