Breastfeeding vs Bottle Feeding: Go Bottles!
{Photo by pfly} The Blessing of the Bottles
In this, the 21st Century, we are blessed with some pretty amazing formulas. Today's formulas are just as nutritious as human milk. In some cases, with babies allergic to breastmilk, the formula is better for them!
Just as you can cuddle and bond with your baby while breastfeeding, you can do the same with the bottle. In fact, everyone can bond using the bottle. You can share the evening feedings with your hubby, or have Grandma sit in for a few hours without needing to pump.
Bottle feeding is also beneficial because you can see exactly how much food your infant is getting. Determining the same for breastfed babies takes more effort. (Like using a Breastfeeding Diary.)
You also never have to worry about your diet affecting your baby. You can eat whatever you'd like without having to concern yourself on whether the broccoli you ate for supper will haunt you with a fussy baby at 2 in the morning.
The Curse of the Breasts
Because breastmilk is so easily digested, your baby will burn through it more quickly, requring more breastfeeding sessions. If you will be going back to work, breastfeeding can be difficult to balance (although not impossible). Breastfeeding at work takes more...well...work.
If you have a chronic condition that leaves you weak, breastfeeding could hurt your stamina even further. Speak with your doctor about your condition and whether breastfeeding would be too much of a strain on your system. You should also speak to your doctor if you are taking any medication on a regular basis. Some medicines can pass into your breastmilk and harm your newborn.
Breastfeeding takes time to learn. It will be several weeks for you and your baby to be working in rhythm with each other. The decision attached to breastfeeding vs bottle feeding must be made with the understanding that you will not (most likely) start breastfeeding as a pro. It is a skill that must be practiced before it is perfected.