Breastfeeding vs. Bottle Feeding: What New Moms Need to Know

As a new mother, one of the toughest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed your newborn. Both options present unique benefits and drawbacks, so to make an informed decision, explore all your options thoroughly. In this article, we discuss both options and the pros and cons of each.

Breastfeeding 101: The Fundamentals

Breastfeeding is an all-natural way to feed your baby. Your breastmilk is full of essential vitamins and nutrients infants need to grow and thrive, along with antibodies that protect them against illness. Breastfeeding may also decrease your risk of certain cancers, and it has been said that it helps you create a strong bond between you and your child.

When starting to breastfeed, seek assistance from a lactation consultant in the hospital to ensure your baby latches appropriately and help you create an efficient breastfeeding routine.

All About Bottle Feeding

Bottle feeding offers moms who can’t or choose not to breastfeed an easy solution to feeding their babies. Bottle feeding allows for more flexibility in your schedule, as other caregivers can help when you’re busy or need a break. Today’s formulas mimic breast milk for proper infant development, so you won’t have to worry about your little one getting all their nutrients. Speak with your pediatrician to find the one best suited to your baby’s needs. Also, select bottles equipped with slow-flow, low level numbered nipples to minimize risks of choking or overfeeding.

Breastfeeding vs. Bottle Feeding: Pros and Cons

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition for your baby and helps them develop their immune system. It can also reduce the risks of illness or disease.

On the downside, breastfeeding requires patience to learn and master. It is usually uncomfortable and painful at first, and can require more time and effort from the mother than bottle feeding. Sometimes, breastfeeding can lead to mastitis, so make sure you are feeding on time, or pumping regularly. If you start feeling extra pain, place cold cabbage on your breasts for pain and swelling reduction. We swear, it works!

Bottle Feeding

Bottle feeding is convenient and flexible. It allows other caregivers to help feed your baby and opens bonding opportunities with other parents or caregivers. Bottle feeding may be beneficial if breastfeeding is impossible or undesired, providing more freedom and flexibility in scheduling your day-to-day routines.

Bottle feeding also has its drawbacks. Formula is expensive, and your baby may not receive all the immunity-enhancing benefits associated with breastfeeding. Some infants may also have difficulty adapting to bottle feeding.

Tips For Feeding Your Baby

No matter which option you select for feeding your infant, there are some steps you can take to help the transition go smoothly:

Be Patient: Feeding can take some time for both of you, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen smoothly at first.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to seek support from lactation consultants, pediatricians, or moms who have gone through it before.
Stay Hydrated and Fed: For breastfeeding mothers, staying hydrated with water and other fluids, and eating a robust diet is crucial to maintaining your milk supply.
Select an Appropriate Formula: Speak to your pediatrician regarding which formula best meets your infant’s needs.
Sterilize Bottles: To minimize infection risks, sterilize all baby bottles and nipples before each use. This can help lower the possibility of infection.

Bottle and Breastfeeding: Our Picks

Elvie Pump ($299.99 for single; $549.99 for double, shop here)

The Elvie Pump is a helpful tool for busy breastfeeding moms. Just place them in your bra and go about your day! Be sure to use your regular pump when you can so you don’t diminish your milk supply.