Pregnancy: Breastfeeding.?

Question

Hello,

I am due in February and I am having an awful time deciding between breastfeeding and bottle feeding my baby. I really like all of the benefits of breastfeeding my baby, but with my schedule I don't know if I will be able to breastfeed or not. Is bottle feeding really that bad for infants in comparison to breastfeeding?? Also, what happens if you don't breastfeed from the start? What kind of changes does your body go through? How long does it take for your body to not produce milk?? any previous experience on the subject or insight is greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Answer 1

Why do you think you will be unable to breastfeed?  From a medical/physical POV,  over 98% of women CAN breastfeed, even if a tiny percentage may need to supplement a bit.  

If you have practical issues that may interfere, (work schedules, for example, or  a baby with physical issues making nursing a challenge) you will need to look into those, and make the best decision for you. Most jobs allow for pumping, and if you can't pump, you may be able to breastfeed while at home, and offer formula the rest of the time.

If formula 'bad' for babies?  No, of course not. If you really can't breastfeed, it provides adequate nutrtion and sufficient calories.  But it's a far distant second-choice, and lacks many of the things that serve to make breastmilk (and breastfeeding) perfect for babies. (Formula fed babies are more likely to get sick, more likely to be constipated, more likely to need braces, more likely to have allergies and asthma ... The list goes on.)

If you don't breastfeed, your body will make milk and you will get engorged.  After a few days your body will conclude that baby has 'died', and your milk will dry up on its own.

(If by 'schedule problems' you ARE referring to a job where pumping/nursing is impossible, then by all means breastfeed during your maternity leave.  Any breastfeeding is better than no breastfeeding, and even if you have to wean at 8-12 weeks, baby will still have gotten a couple of months of breastmilk.)

Answer 2

You have a 100% right not to breastfeed! I would suggest you give it a try after baby is born, to see how it feels for you. If it is comfortable for you, you can choose to pump your breast milk for on-the-go feedings if public feedings make you uncomfortable. And even if you only breastfeed for two weeks, you will have made a world of difference for your baby! Breast milk when your baby is a newborn will help her immune system to develop, and just that little duration of breastfeeding will give her a great head start. But don't worry if you don't want to do it! Don't worry about people who judge you. You love your baby and will feed it whatever you choose, and you can feel confidant that no matter what your choice is, your baby will be receiving a health and nutritious meal!

Answer 3

You can do both. Breastfeed/pump into bottles and also formula feed. Just remember, some babies can't don't latch on.  

Answer 4

Why dont you just pump and feed you baby the bottle... You can freeze your milk so its always on hand

Answer 5

I don't know what your schedule is like, but even breastfeeding for a week or a month is better than not doing it at all.  I am sure you plan on staying home at least 6 weeks, so why don't you plan on breastfeeding at least that amount of time?

Breastmilk is MUCH better than formula.  It protects babies from disease and illness.  Breasfed babies are less likely to get sick, therefore there is less chance that you will have to take off work to take baby to doctor, pay for doctor, etc.  Breastmilk is FREE.  

It is natural; our bodies were made for breastfeeding.  Babies will choose breastmilik over formula even at 1 hour old.  Bottle-fed babies are more likely to get colic.

There are too many reasons why you should do it and I can't think of one reason why you shouldn't at least try.

Answer 6

Give breastfeeding a try, you might love it & it will be good for your baby. Good luck.