Last time, we answered questions a breastfeeding mother would want to ask. Among those questions is one about formula for those who can’t or don’t want to breastfeed. Feeding your baby has some stigma around it on both sides, especially in a world where mothers so often meet judgment for every action. So we’re here to clarify the differences between breastfeeding and formula so you can choose what’s best for your baby.
Breastfeeding
Mothers who breastfeed their infants contribute to a strong immune system. Breast milk provides natural antibodies, such as those that combat ear infections. Breastfed babies also tend to have happier digestive systems because breast milk is easier to digest than formula.
There are also plenty of benefits for moms, too! Mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, and heart disease.
Breastfeeding is convenient in that your baby can be fed anytime he or she needs it. You never have to carry supplies or warm up a bottle. It’s also free, provided by your own body. Though, there is a downside that you may have to use a pump if you miss a feeding or won’t be able to breastfeed at a certain time.
If you choose to breastfeed, don’t feel shamed by it, especially in public. Do what makes you comfortable, whether that’s to cover up or use a nursing room, or openly breastfeeding your baby. Don’t feel pressured either way.
Bottle Feeding
Some mothers can’t or choose not to breastfeed their children. So they turn to formula to keep their baby fed. But formula has a lot of myths around it, especially when comparing it to breastfeeding. One of these myths is that formula doesn’t have the nutrients and immune boosters necessary to sustain healthy development. But infant formula actually has a lot of nutrients in it, and is just as healthy for your baby. Formula contains prebiotics and fatty acids that help brain and eye development. Some even contain vitamin D and other nutrients which breastfed babies may need supplements for.
Formula is a great alternative to feeding your child in public if open breastfeeding makes you uncomfortable. If you bottle-feed your baby, you also won’t have to worry about medications or specific foods that would harm or irritate your baby.
Above all, it’s convenient. Bottle feeding allows others to feed the baby and bond with him or her. Plus, this can give you needed time off. Let your partner feed the baby at night, accomplish other things, go to work if you can’t take time off, or even take a short nap!
The downsides of bottle feeding is that it is more expensive than breastfeeding. You’ll have to purchase the formula itself and the equipment. It can also upset your baby’s tummy, making them gassy or constipated.
It’s Up to You
In the end, the choice is yours to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby. You’ll bond with him or her either way, no matter what you choose. Your baby can’t tell the difference between feeding from a bottle or a breast as long as that contact and love is still there.
It’s also not an either-or choice. You have the freedom to use both, if that’s what works best for you and your baby. What really matters is not how you feed your infant, but that your baby is healthy and growing.