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Step 1
Consider the pros and cons of breast-feeding and bottle-feeding. There are plenty of advantages to breast-feeding, but it isn't the correct way for every mother.
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Step 2
Dispel the myths surrounding both ways. For instance, one myth states that women with small breasts cannot make enough milk for their babies. This is false. Dispelling the myths can help you make an informed decision about which way is best to feed your baby.
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Step 3
Realize that you can successfully feed your baby using both methods if that is what you choose. Many mothers bottle-feed during the day while they work and breast-feed at night when they get home. If you initially choose to breast-feed your baby and then switch to formula, you are not breaking a cardinal rule.
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Step 4
Think through your own beliefs, preferences and attitude towards breast-feeding. How do you really feel? Do you have a supportive partner or spouse? Are you willing to make the time and nutritional commitment?
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Step 5
If you want to breast-feed your baby, but have fears, speak with a lactation consultant, doula or midwife. Perhaps you are afraid of the pain or of being successful. Talking through some of your fears that could inhibit a successful breast-feeding relationship could make a difference in your choice.
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Step 6
Read books about breast-feeding and bottle-feeding. Getting accurate information about both methods is important. Stay updated with current studies and don't just accept someone's beliefs or advice as fact. You are choosing the best way to feed your baby; therefore, no one else can tell you which is the right way.
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Step 7
Take a newborn class. The instructor will generally cover both bottle-feeding and breast-feeding during the course. She can show you how to hold the baby using either method, how to use the proper techniques and what signs to look for in a nutritionally thriving baby.
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Step 8
If you are still unsure as to which way to feed, give breast-feeding a try for 2 weeks. Breast-feeding for this amount of time can allow your baby to get the important, nutrient-rich milk called colostrum, boost his immune system and give your body a chance to adjust to feeding.
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Step 9
Most importantly, be comfortable, loving and affectionate with whichever way of feeding you choose. Bonding with your baby during feeding time is very special, and the baby will receive many benefits through either method.
Comments
MyJB said
on 8/5/2009 This is a sensitively written article, as it addresses and understands the position of women who want to breast feed and those who can't or prefer not to. The information and tips are timely and current. Thanks for sharing. 5*
jennifer91402 said
on 8/2/2009 I completely agree with this. There is so much pressure in our society of what to do. Everyone seems to have an opinion when it comes to raising an infant. Everyone is different. What is right for one mother and child will not be right for the next. Great tips!
stayathome394 said
on 8/2/2009 I love this article. I just wrote a paper on this for my Final a few weeks ago. I am an avid advocate for breastfeeding but my argumentative essay made me see that not everyone sees it the same as I do. Great article!