Breastfeeding versus Bottle Feeding
It would be better to breastfeed your child if he is less than one year. It is recommended by the doctors. Breast milk contains proper amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrates and helps in providing minerals, hormones, digestive enzymes and vitamins to the infant. It also helps in building antibodies in the infant’s body which fight infections.
There are two ways through which you can feed your baby with breast milk. One of the ways is by breastfeeding and the other way is to use a bottle. ( Breastfeed while pregnant )
Feeding directly from breast
This has to be done by the mother only.
You can completely breastfeed your baby or give bottle feedings also.
You can use bottle also.
This requires usual milk pumping from the breasts.
Suitable handling as well as storage of milk is needed.
Nipples and bottles have to be prepared suitably.
Doctors recommend to breastfeed the infant for the first few weeks. You can switch your child to a bottle after 2 months of age.
Benefits of breastfeeding
There are some benefits of breastfeeding which helps in saving the baby from following problems:
Intestinal and stomach infections.
Allergies of any type.
Ear infections.
Skin related diseases.
Problems related to digestion, like diarrhea or constipation.
Hospitalization in early days of life. ( breastfeeding after cesarean delivery )
Breastfeeding also helps in reducing the risk of anemia, tooth decay, diabetes and high blood pressure for the baby.
Benefits for mothers who breastfeed their babies
No need of sterilizing the bottles.
No need of preparing formula.
Cost friendly.
Can lose weight easily.
Develop a unique mother and child bond.
This reduces the risk of ovarian, uterine and breast cancer.
Tips for the mothers who breastfeed their babies
If you are under any medication then it would be better to consult your doctor.
The nutrition should be maintained.
It would be good to take lots of water or fluids.
Take rest.
Take care of your breasts and nipples.
Problems which you may find during breastfeeding
Pain in nipples.
Difficulty in judging the amount of milk your baby is having.
Engorgement in breasts.
Some babies find it hard to breastfeed due to following reasons:
Defects since birth of mouth.
Sucking problems.
Physical conditions.
