Breastfeeding is better for a newborn. Despite the vast dietary improvements in formula supplements, there is still nothing comparable to natural breast milk and colostrum for a newborn.
2006-11-07 02:09:09
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answer #1
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answered by Trollbuster 6
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You can do whatever you are most comfortable with.
I breastfed all 5 of my babies and I wouldn't change a thing. I am a firm supporter of breastfeeding but I know it's hard and it isn't for everyone.
Consider both options, pros and cons before making a decision.
Once you decide not to breastfeed your milk will dry up and you can't go backwards. T
he milk will be there no matter what you choose so why not try it and if it isn't for you then switch to formula? There are a lot of great choices out there from what I hear but breast milk will always be best for baby.
It is always your decision.
2006-11-07 02:09:58
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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You don't have to breastfeed if you don't want to. Doctors and nurses will push it on you and some women may look down on you for it but don't let it bother you. I decided to breastfeed cause breast cancer runs in my family and breastfeeding helps reduce my risk. The first month or so is a nightmare but I've been at it for almost 6 months now and am about to start weaning her. My bestfriend tried to breastfeed (her son is 6 weeks younger than my daughter) and it just didn't work out for her. She said she was upset at first but then once she started formula feeding, it was a relief because feedings were easier. It's all up to you. Do what you feel is going to be best for you and your baby. Congrats and best wishes!
2006-11-07 02:08:20
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answer #3
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answered by Anonymous
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You don't have to breastfeed but it certainly is great for your baby and provides a great way to bond with your baby. Nature designed breast milk to meet all of the needs of a new baby's body. Plus, your baby will receive antibodies against illness through your breast milk which certainly helps keep them healthier during the first months of life. I have been breastfeeding my daughter since she was born in May and so far she has not had 1 cold or other illness. Breastfeeding is also great for the mother. It helps you burn some extra calories which helps get some of that pregnancy weight off. It is also very relaxing (once you get the hang of it) and convenient (since the milk is always with you and ready to go). It really depends on your lifestyle. Breastfeeding definitely takes commitment in order for it to work well. It is hard work but really worth it. I don't think formula is bad at all and I have supplemented my daughter with it. I just think that breastfeeding has some great benefits for baby and mother.
2006-11-07 02:21:12
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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Well breast feeding is obviously better than formula. It is natural, more nourishing, etc. BUT it needs to be something you are willing to stick with. It isn't easy. It's pretty rigerous, and you can't pass that on to dad if you are too tired one night to get up. You are really tied to the baby 24/7. I mean you can pump, and that works too, but i find women who do that give up on breastfeeding real quick!!
There is also the issue on if you can. Some women just plain can't or aren't comfortable wth it. Each has it's advantages. But it needs to be your decision and what works best for baby. I say you should give it a shot. See how it goes, and take it from there. Even just a little is good for the baby. I now can't breastfeed due to surgery i had to have, so anyone who says formula is "horrible" is just plain wrong. Some women CAN"T, and formula is the "next best thing" and they grow up just fine!!
But give it a shot!! You might be perfect for it!
2006-11-07 02:12:07
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answer #5
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answered by 3rdtimesacharm 3
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The choice is up to you. You don't "have" to breastfeed, but it is better for you and the baby. If you don't give it a try, you can't change your mind later. I suggest giving it a shot at least. There is no minimum time frame you have to commit to it. Whatever works for the two of you.
The first two weeks is the most important time for the baby. The collestrium, (spell?) helps strengthen their immune system. It's a bonding thing & is much healthier for the babies.
Benefits for the mom:
* When you breastfeed, your uterus contracts, helping you slim
down quicker.
* Those babies suck the fat off of you. You'll need to up your calorie intake.
* Don't have to bother with warming bottles or running to the store. It's always ready!
* Breastfed babies diapers don't stink like formula fed baby's
* Don't have to sit up in the middle of the night with the bottle. Just hook 'em up next to you & you can both drift off to sleep.
There are several support groups & information groups out there. Try La leche League. http://www.lalecheleague.org/
A lactician may visit you at the hospital. Ask lots of questions! They are there to help! Good luck!
2006-11-07 02:19:30
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answer #6
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answered by ? 3
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Breast is best for both your baby and you. Your baby will get the exact diet that he/she needs as well as all of the antibodies and immunities from you. For you, it can help you lose your pregnancy weight faster and reduces your risk of breast cancer. It is a wonderful bonding experience for both of you and can't compare to using a bottle. It is also cheap and very convenient (no formula to make and bottles to sterilize). If food allergies run in your family, then breastfeeding can prevent or reduce the allergies.
You could try breast-feeding and if it doesn't work out for you, then go to formula. It doesn't work for everyone, so don't be disappointed. Do what you are comfortable with. Good luck.
2006-11-07 02:09:37
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answer #7
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answered by finding_my_dream 3
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If you live in an area of the world where you have access to clean safe drinking water then no you do not have to breastfeed.
However, breastfeeding is better for both you and baby. Breast milk is the perfect food for babies and the hormones produced while breastfeeding help fight post partum depression, allow your uterus to return to its proper size, prevent breast cancer. The list goes on and on.
Babies who are fed formula have an increased chance of diarrhea, food allergies, and infections.
Breastfeeding is also cheaper (free or nearly free), easier (no need to bring bottles when you go out, no need to pack ice packs to keep the formula cold and then worry about how to heat it up). You never run out of breast milk at 2am when the stores are closed. Breast milk is never accidentally contaminated during manufacturing.
Breast is best.
Why don't you list why you are concerned about breastfeeding or would prefer formula and we will all try to give you more specific information.
http://www.kellymom.com
http://www.lalechleague.org
2006-11-07 02:11:51
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answer #8
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answered by Anonymous
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Breastmilk is best for babies because it has lots of things (antibodies, enzymes to help the baby digest the milk, etc) that formula cannot have.
I personally think breastfeeding is way easier because you don't have to lug around bottles, nipples, water, & formula. And you don't have to juggle a crying baby in one arm while you're mixing a bottle.
I would recommend that you try breastfeeding. If it doesn't work out, then it doesn't work out. You have to do what is right for you.
If do bottlefeed though, at least hold your baby while they're eating. They need that physical contact.
2006-11-07 04:36:46
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answer #9
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answered by Peter & Lora E 2
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Breastfeeding is definately better for your baby, You should get a couple of books about breastfeeding and really read up. The choice is yours though, don't let anyone bully you into feeling like you have to breast feed. But you should be well informed, breastfeeding helps the babies immune system tremendously, it helps prevent them from getting sick even after you stop breastfeeding. It also has been proven to help decrease the mothers risk of developing breast cancer later, and helps melt the pregnancy weight.
2006-11-07 02:08:35
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answer #10
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answered by voidtillnow 5
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