Breastfeeding vs Bottle Feeding: A Personal Decision

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The matter over whether to breastfeed or bottle feed has been around for ages. In the 1970's was considered fashionable. Flash back to 18th Century Europe, and breastfeeding was considered for the low-class. Today, it seems like everyone has an opinion on breastfeeding-doctors, clinical researchers, other mothers. And with the abundance of data available on the subject, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Whatever you decide, remember ultimately it's your choice. While it can be extremely helpful to listen to what others have to say, basing your decision on what you feel most comfortable with is what will make you and your baby most happy in the end. To make the right decision for you, it's vital to educate yourself. That doesn't mean you need …show more content…

It also presents a perfect opportunity for the father to play a role in feeding. Many fathers also find this helps them develop a closer bond with the baby. Bottle feeding is precise and consistent. Mothers who bottle feed never have to worry if their baby is eating enough because they can see exactly how much milk their baby is getting. What's more, the taste and quality of bottled milk is always the same, which means it doesn't rely on a mother's health or nutritional choices. Advantages of Breast Feeding Nursing can be a wonderful experience for both the mother and baby. Because it is such a close and intimate act, it can provide a special bond that many nursing mothers treasure. Breast feeding can also help a new mother feel confident in her ability to take care of her baby as she is the total provider for food. Breast milk is natural and highly recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Milk produced during pregnancy is created to provide the perfect amount of minerals and nutrients a baby needs. Breast milk also contains immunities and antibodies to help protect a baby from disease, which is very important during the first few months when a baby's immune system hasn't fully developed. Sucking is important for a baby's …show more content…

The cost can be considerable especially compared to breastfeeding, which doesn't cost anything. Manufactured formula doesn't contain any antibodies. This means that even the highest quality formula doesn't offer the added protection against bacteria and viruses that breast milk provides. As a result, a breast-fed baby may be more susceptible to illness. Disadvantages of Breastfeeding Nursing can be extremely painful and difficult, especially during the first few weeks. Some mothers experience sore, cracked, or engorged nipples. If a mother needs to leave her baby to run errands or go to work, she'll have to pump her milk into bottles so her baby can eat while she's away. Breast pumps can be somewhat expensive and can also cause breast tenderness or pain. A breastfeeding mother must take precautions regarding diet, medications, and overall health. Often, a mother may eat or drink something that doesn't easily mix with the baby's digestive system. And if a mother becomes ill or stressed, her breast milk may be reduced. It's essential for a mother to have a thorough check-up before nursing not only to ensure good physical and mental health, but also because there are rare blood-borne viruses which can pass from a mother to her baby during

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