Choosing how to feed your baby can be a difficult decision for many families. With the demands of both parents working, day care and other obligations, it is important that you are well informed on all the options so you can make the best choice for your baby and you.
Breastfeeding is the biologically natural way to feed a baby. Women’s bodies begin to make colostrum, the first milk, during pregnancy to provide nutrition in the early days after birth. Colostrum is designed specifically for a newborn baby’s needs.
When breastfeeding or stimulation is initiated, your colostrum transitions into mature milk that changes with your baby’s needs. Although a woman’s body naturally prepares for lactation, supply doesn’t just happen on its own. It does take feeding your baby whenever hunger cues are shown, holding them skin-to-skin as often as possible and ensuring your baby has a proper latch to maximize stimulation and milk transfer.
If you’re unable to latch your baby, it is essential to express and/or pump to stimulate your breasts to encourage milk production.
Exclusive breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is considered the biological norm. However, it doesn’t always come naturally to moms or babies.
The first few weeks can be hard for some families as they figure things out. But once you are more comfortable with breastfeeding, you find a plan that works better for you and your baby. Below are some benefits of breastfeeding.
If you breastfeed
- Convenient or readily available – laws protect public breastfeeding
- Milk is fresh and the perfect temperature for baby
- Bonding between mom and baby
- Minimal to no supplies needed
- Decreased illness, digestive issues and adult obesity for baby
Pumping breast milk
Direct breastfeeding is not for everyone or for every situation. In some cases, women chose to pump their breast milk and bottle feed their baby. Bottle feeding breast milk is still considered breastfeeding and is a common option to feed your baby. There are some important things to keep in mind if you choose to exclusively pump.
If you pump
- Pump to express the volume your baby needs. This may be 8-10 times in 24 hours
- Know how to properly use and clean your breast pump
- Learn how to safely prepare bottles and understand the CDC Breast Milk Storage guidelines
If you desire to breastfeed your baby but are struggling with latching, supply, or just have concerns or questions, reach out to an internationally board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) or review other lactation support services.
Formula feeding
Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for moms and babies. However, for some women or babies, it doesn’t work out, or they determine it’s not their preferred feeding method.
Formula is a nutritional substitute that can be used in place of breast milk for most babies. Although formula serves as a substitute, it can never fully compare to the nutritional benefits of breast milk.
If you formula feed
- Evidence-based research shows formula-fed infants have increased incidence of illness
- Upset stomach due to overfeeding is more common
- Expense of formula and feeding supplies
- Potential for feeding intolerance
- Preparation and feeding time
- Ask your baby’s provider for guidance with any concerns regarding your baby’s nutrition
Regardless of your feeding choice, meeting your baby’s nutritional needs requires adjustments in your routine and lifestyle. It is important to be informed of all the options to nourish your baby.
To prepare for this journey, Sanford Health lactation consultants are here to help you. Sanford Health offers support for every mom, whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping or formula feeding. Learn more about lactation services.
Learn more
- How do I know if my baby is hungry?
- 5 breastfeeding FAQs for new moms
- Buying a breast pump to match your lifestyle
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Posted In Children's, Health Information, Nutrition, Women's
