21 April 2021Breast milk or formula: which should you choose?
Most expecting parents go through the dilemma of having to choose between breastfeeding or formula-feeding. If you have decided to go with the former, this article is for you! Read to learn more about what you can expect on this special journey.
Why do Some Women Choose Breastfeeding Over Formula-feeding?
Each has its own merits, but what differentiates breastfeeding from formula-feeding is far more than nutritional benefits.
Breast milk contains antibodies and germ-fighting minerals that a mom can pass to the baby to boost their natural immunity. Since a newborn's immune system takes around six months to develop, mothers can help to strengthen their baby's immune system and fight off viruses by sharing theirs; this shared immunity is transferred through breastmilk.
In the first few days after birth, mothers produce colostrum, baby’s first inoculation. This small precious golden-yellow or light orange colour liquid contains high levels of beta-carotene. The colostrum also tends to be thicker than transitional and mature breast milk. It is high in vitamins, proteins, antibodies, antiviral agents and will help your baby clear out his first poop, a dark viscous liquid called meconium.
Following the onset of colostrum, transitional milk sets in over the next 3 to 5 days after delivery. Transitional breast milk is a combination of our colostrum and mature milk.
At about 2 weeks post-partum, transitional milk, becomes mature breast milk. Mature milk naturally follows the required nutrition of the baby, as they move along in life. The composition of fat, carbohydrates, and many other minerals and vitamins needed changes according to the child's age and growth stages. This is why eating the relevant foods or taking boosters as your baby grows is vital as your body draws down from your natural reserves to give the best to your little one.
Nutrition aside, a mom can also enjoy quality bonding time with the baby while breastfeeding! The experience encourages an emotional bond by promoting a sense of closeness, protection and love. Many mothers who enjoy breastfeeding can even go as far as 24 months with their child, as suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO).
What to Expect if You are New to Breastfeeding
Every mom faces different challenges, particularly during the early stages of motherhood. But here's what you should expect during your first time breastfeeding:
1. It's not the same for all moms
The journey to motherhood differs from mom to mom. breastfeeding can be a walk in the park for some but an uphill battle for others.
Ultimately, your breastfeeding experience depends on your body's natural breast milk supply, genetics as well as lifestyle.
2. Changes in your breasts
For some lucky moms, your body might produce more milk than your breasts can hold, and you might experience leaky breasts. However, the leaking should slow down as your body gets more accustomed to breastfeeding. You might need to put cloth pads in your bra if you are going out to avoid staining your clothes.
Also, your breasts might feel uncomfortable and rock-hard due to engorgement, which occurs when the breast tissue overfills with milk and other fluids. However, the engorgement should subside as you continue to breastfeed your baby. Post-natal breast massage may help to ease the milk flow, similarly, pumping out your milk for freezing can also aid with engorgement.
Some home remedies include placing a chilled lettuce leaf around your breast to reduce the swelling, however, take note that this may reduce the milk you produce as well!
I can't produce enough milk
Sadly, some moms have it harder than others.
If you find that you are struggling to produce sufficient milk supply, you could consider taking lactation supplements or foods like lactation cookies to boost your body's natural supply of breast milk.
Follow the recommended dosage and observe if it improves your lactation experience. Last but not least, remember to drink plenty of fluids to keep the nutrients flowing through and out of your body to baby.
3. Fatigue after breastfeeding
Sometimes, breastfeeding feels like a marathon, and you might feel exhausted after you have finished feeding your baby.
But fatigue is entirely normal because breastfeeding releases prolactin and oxytocin, making a mother feel relaxed and sleepy.
Help! My emotions are erratic!
With a can-do attitude, persistence and access to resources, you can make nursing bliss a reality for you and your baby. Here are some of the common problems nursing moms go through and what you can do about them:
I'm feeling sad
Are you feeling hopeless, tired and frustrated after giving birth? It could due to postpartum depression or baby blues.
Surround yourself with good vibes and give yourself some downtime whenever you feel like you need to take a breather. For instance, try following social media pages that empower new moms (like ours!). You can also find solace and comfort in our closed group, share your feelings, thoughts and opinions in a safe space. Drop us a personal message and we will be happy to add you in.
If your blues are still present after 6 months, please see your gynae or a psychologist to get some help. Mental health is extremely important for moms!
I feel pain
Discomfort like tender breasts are normal, but please do not ignore any sharp pains! Speak to your doctor or gynae if you feel unbearable sharp pains when breastfeeding.
Many first-time breastfeeding mothers also feel tender or bruised nipples due to breastfeeding. In severe cases, the skin around the nipples can tear and bleed. Fret not. You can use your own breastmilk to coat the tender areas to hasten healing, the anti-bacterial power in your breastmilk will also prevent any infection. After 1-2 weeks, your nipples should be more accustomed to baby’s feeding habits and you will soon enjoy this wonderful bonding experience with your child.
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