Becoming a mother is being able to hold your little bundle of joy close and shower all your love on your baby. However, it also is a huge responsibility. It means, frequent feedings, including night feeds, being alert constantly, for your infant’s safety is paramount, changing of nappies, adjusting to the babies sleeping patterns, taking care that the baby is not sleeping in the wrong posture, and the list can go on.
The debate over breastfeeding versus formula feeding is alive and well these days. Many women decide on one method during pregnancy and then change their mind once the infant arrives, or in the weeks following. The decision to breastfeed, formula feed, or combination feed is based on a family’s comfort level, lifestyle, and specific medical situations. Debating the benefits of each method can help you decide what is best for you and your baby. It is important to keep in mind that breastfeeding is not always possible for women, single father households or households that have two dads. Infant formula is a healthy alternative, providing babies with the vitamins and nutrients that they need to grow. The product is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and meets the nutritional needs of infants. Most brands are the same, with the exception of a key ingredient, the fatty acid DHA. Some studies have shown that DHA can improve cognition and visual processing. Below are some things to keep in mind if you plan on formula feeding.
Formula Feeding
Formula feedings allow for the opportunity of equitable parenting, allowing both parents equal time to bond with the child. Your partner can assist with nighttime feedings so you can get more sleep. Many mothers also discontinue breastfeeding prior to the six-month mark because they have to return to work, and formula provides a healthy alternative.
Things Before Preparing Baby Formula
Always wash your hands before preparing formula. Make sure to clean and rinse bottles and artificial nipples carefully. Discard any leftover formula, which can spoil easily and upset your baby’s stomach. Once opened or mixed, the formula is good for about one hour out in the open. The powdered formula comes with an expiration date so double-check all labels. Never heat formula in the microwave. Sometimes switching formulas can help settle digestive issues but check with your child’s paediatrician prior to making any adjustments.
Your Baby’s Lead
Each baby is unique and will vary his or her intake from day to day, or from feeding to feeding. Never force-feed additional formula, and don’t leave your child wanting more. An infant that spits up often may do better with smaller, more frequent feedings.
