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Kris & Rob
We are blessed to be the adoptive parents of a five year old. Recently we were contacted by a birthmom with two year old -- what a great match for our family. As of 10/3/06 we are still working out contracts between states -- but we are SO LUCKY to be looking forward to adopting our second child. THANK YOU PARENT PROFILES! more ...
Nursing
Under normal conditions, nursing is best for both you and your baby. Formula can be highly nutritious, but human breast milk is specifically designed for human babies. It contains nutrients not found in cow's milk or soy, and it changes from day to day to match your baby's changing nutritional needs.
Breast milk is easier for babies to digest, meaning less constipation, diarrhea, and tummy trouble. While your baby may be allergic to some of the food in your diet, breast milk itself is not likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Nursing provides your baby with partial protection against some illnesses in the first year of life, and possibly beyond.
Nursing is good for the mother as well. Many women find it very convenient to have baby's food always available, always ready, always safe, and always at the right temperature. Nursing helps speed the shrinking of the uterus back to pre-pregnancy size and can help burn off the fat accumulated during pregnancy. Nursing is more economical than formula, and it ensures that the new mom will sit down and rest at least a few times a day.
There are, however, some factors that might make you choose bottles over nursing. Many women need the freedom given by bottles - to work, to sleep, to leave the baby with someone else. Breast milk can be pumped and given by bottle, but this does require more planning than simply opening a can of formula. Bottle feeding means that the mother does not have to be as careful with her diet, for she will be the only one affected by those beans, garlic, and cabbage.
Some medical conditions will dictate the choice for you. If you are on certain medications or are facing serious illness, nursing may not be possible. Nursing may also be ruled out in babies with some digestive disorders or a cleft lip or palate.
You may know right from the start how you plan to feed your baby, or you may still be undecided. It can be hard to know in advance if this is the right choice for you. If you are still undecided, consider giving nursing a try. You may decide to stick with it. Even if you decide to switch to bottles, you and your baby will still have enjoyed some of the many benefits to be gained.
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