Choosing how to feed your baby is one of the very first decisions a parent will make when their baby arrives. While there is absolutely no argument over the many benefits of breastfeeding, it is equally important for Moms to know that they have a choice, should breastfeeding not work out for them. And perhaps more importantly, that they do not have to feel guilty about it.
5 Tips For Formula Feeding: Sometimes it’s not about whats better or worse, but what works.
My Almost-Breastfeeding Story
9 years ago, when I was having my first baby, breastfeeding was my first choice. I did not second guess it. But when my son arrived, my body had other plans. I was not producing enough milk, no matter how often I pumped or what foods I ate. For the first few weeks I split between breast and bottle feeding, hoping that soon my milk would increase. And then I was hit with an infection, setting back my recovery from my emergency c-section weeks! This was not the plan. I began to feel guilty about my milk production (even though I had no control over it), guilty about leaning on others to help with the baby when I was in pain, or exhausted (when I should have been thankful). 3 weeks in to this Motherhood gig– I was both physically and emotionally spent– already feeling like I was failing somehow. I had a bout with postpartum depression. It was a rough time and moreover, it was the exact opposite of how I envisioned how my introduction to motherhood would to go.
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When my second and third child arrived, I remembered my experience and weighed it out again, this time with sibling juggling added into the equation. I could have tried again. Maybe it would have been different. However we ultimately decided (this time with more confidence) that for our family as a whole, it was best to bottle feed with Similac for a second and third time.
Changing The Conversation
Stories like mine are not heard often enough. Sometimes it is not about which is better – bottle or breast feeding– but what works. And no matter the choice, none of us are any better or worse of a Mom. I am a believer that as Moms, we all just want to feed our babies the best we can– guilt free. And so it is this reason that I am proud to be partnering with Similac to bring you a series of post to educate, support and provide tips for new parents.
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Statistics show that like me, many Moms plan on breastfeeding but for a variety of reasons, need or choose to introduce formula at some point in their babies’ lives. However, picking the right formula for your baby can be confusing. The amount of options, along with your baby’s specific needs, are factors that can be overwhelming when looking for formula. Here are 5 tips from Nationally-syndicated pediatrician Dr. Sue Hubbard, “The Kid’s Doctor,” to help parents who have decide to formula feed, find a formula that works best for their family.
5 Tips For Choosing The Right Formula For Your Baby
- Figure out your lifestyle needs and which form of formula will support them: Infant formula generally comes in a variety of forms, and figuring out which one works best for you depends on a few factors.
- Understand the ingredients: While the FDA regulates all infant formula, that doesn’t mean that all brands are the same. Understanding the makeup of infant formula will help you select a brand that is best for your family.
- Be mindful of your water source: The type of water you have access to may affect the type of formula you want to use.
- Watch and learn: The best way to know if a formula is right for your baby may be easier than you think.
- Consider your baby’s age: As babies grow and solid foods are introduced, consider a formula designed for older babies.
Disclosure: Similac is a paid sponsor of ComplicatedMama.com All opinions expressed are my own.
