Breast v. Bottle Georgia CTAE Resource Network Instructional Resources Office

Breastfeeding Breast milk is the perfect food baby It is the only food baby needs during his/her first six months Breastfeeding is natural but it takes time

Benefits of Breastfeeding (for the baby) The perfect food Easily digested Less likely to be overfed Carries disease fighting antibodies Develop fewer food allergies Generally have fewer illnesses Perfect temperature Individualized for each infant

Benefits to the Mother Convenient No cost! Helps uterus to return to normal size Increases metabolism for weight loss Already sanitized No preparation Decreases woman’s risk of developing breast cancer later in life Suppresses ovulation and menstruation Strengthens mother’s bones

Bottle Feeding Benefits Others can share the work Baby can be fed and cuddle from others Mother has a chance to rest Mother can leave the infant for many hours at a time if necessary Mother does not have to be as careful about what she consumes May be preferable for a woman who is inhibited about her body Mother’s body back to being her own

Bottle Feeding Tips Three types of formula: Powdered formula – cheapest, powder that must be mixed with sterilized water Concentrated formula – liquid that must be mixed with sterilized water Ready-to-feed formula – most expensive, but easiest, already mixed with water Sterilize all bottles and nipples before using Never heat formula in the microwave – HOT SPOTS! Check the temp before feeding – it should fill warm on your wrist, not hot or cold Hold baby’s head a little higher than his tummy Make sure the nipple stays full of formula Never prop the bottle

Is Baby Getting Enough Milk? Six to eight wet diapers Three to five bowel movements Baby gains at least a pound a month Baby eats every 1-1/2 to 3 hours; averaging about 8 to 12 feedings a day

Feeding Basics Feed baby when he/she starts rooting or sucking on his/her lips Try to feed before the baby cries

Burping Baby You should burp your baby after one or two ounces if bottle feeding and after five minutes if breastfeeding. There are several positions to place baby while burping: Over your shoulder In your lap Lying over knees