The debate over breastfeeding versus formula feeding can be highly polarizing. Many new mothers who choose to feed their children with newborn formula, while others breastfeed their infants. No new mother should be made to feel guilty about using formula, especially if there are personal issues that prevent her from breastfeeding in the first place. In fact, there are many benefits of formula feeding a newborn.
Please note that this post is not about taking a stand either way in breast versus formula but instead intends to highlight information about newborn formula so new or soon-to-be moms, as well as their loved ones, have all of the necessary information to decide for themselves if it’s the right choice for their newborn and their family’s lifestyle. After all, it makes sense to prepare for the new baby as much as possible.
Top benefits of formula feeding:
1. It can alleviate postpartum stress
Firstly, choosing to use formula with your newborn can reduce stress on new mothers. Breastfeeding can be a painful and demanding activity that is sometimes be too much for couples who are in the throes of postpartum life.
There is nothing shameful in choosing not to breastfeed when formula represents a nutritional alternative that is far easier on the body, and potentially the mind. Even choosing to combine breastfeeding with occasional formula use can be helpful when it all becomes too much to handle.
Formula can also remove any conditions that cause breastfeeding to be an uncomfortable experience for either the baby or the mother. For example, if breastfeeding is too painful or if your baby has poor suction ability, then formula feeding can be an effective solution.
Furthermore, you can easily get back to your pre-pregnancy “normal” when using formula. You will be able to eat and drink whatever you want, including coffee, and spicy foods, without worrying about its effect on the baby.
2. Formula is nutritious
Formula has many additional vitamins and minerals, including some that are not in breast milk. These extras include vitamin D and, in some cases, DTA fatty acids, which are both necessary for healthy development. Nowadays, there are many brands of formulas luckily and parents have the opportunity to choose between organic and non-organic formulas. Holle is one of the world’s most well-respected organic baby formula brands with over 85 years of experience with a variety of organic baby formulas.
Also, you can customize formula feeding to your unique child. For example, if your newborn has digestive issues, you can easily find a way to make the bottle so it is easier to consume. Premature and low birth weight children can also benefit from a formula that is higher in calories than standard formulations. Best of all, with formula, there will be no mystery as to how much food your newborn is eating. Formula is easy to measure before consumption, while breastfeeding involves somewhat of a guessing game.
3. It encourages equal parenting
If your partner can share the responsibility of feeding your child early on, this activity can create a more equal parenting dynamic within your new family. It can be a lot easier for everyone involved if nobody is the “primary caregiver” 100% of the time.
However, if you worry that not breastfeeding will leave you feeling distance from your baby, it’s important to know that formula feeding can still be a nurturing experience. You can also be sure that there is much more to being a mother or father than simply feeding your child!
Final words on benefits of formula feeding
Is this information about the benefits of formula feeding new to you? Are there other advantages not pointed out here?
Thanks for posting this! Am feeling terrible guilt for switching my baby over to formula
That’s exactly why this post and others like it are needed, Roisin ~ Please don’t feel guilty. What’s most important is you’re taking care of your baby and doing what’s best for your family. LOVE is what truly matters xo
I did breast feed for the first six months with my son, and five months with my daughter, though we chose to introduce our babies to formula as well. This proved to be a lifesaver, as not only did my husband have a chance to feed our infants, but he could also give me a break from time to time. This was especially important as I had trouble producing enough milk for my daughter after she was a few months old. Neither of our babies were very particular about the source of their food, only that it was there when they needed it.
It sounds like you found a combination that worked well for you and family, Amy. Thanks for sharing your experience. Your kids are so lucky to have you xo
Wonderful post! Will be sharing with my expecting mother’s who are struggling with this decision!
Thanks! It’s such an important topic xx
Those are three great reasons to choose formula, Christy.
Your support here is amazing. Thank you, Norah.
My pleasure to read and support, when I can, Christy. :)
So sweet!
I think number three is very important. Since as you stated it enourages a paertnership in this sacred responsibility.
I embrace the idea of equal parenting all around. Thanks my friend. I hope you had a nice vacation.
Great advice… 😃
:D
Sent this to my daughter and son in law who have newborn twin boys. Thank you Christy!
Oh I’m honored by the share, Cindy! Blessings to you and family.
Excellent advice, Christy. I breast fed my older son for only three weeks. I had an awful time with engorgement and anxiety. Michael I breastfed for nearly three years. My relationship with both is the same and they are both strapping great lads now.
Wishing you and family all the best always, Robbie xx