Pregnancy and motherhood are not without their challenges, that’s for sure. So many people want to give you their opinions, whether you want them or not. One topic in particular seems to heat up quickly… breastfeeding or formula? Let me start by saying, whatever you choose, your way is truly the best way.
Breastfeeding or Formula
If you’ve spoken to anyone about feeding your newborn, I’m sure you’ve heard the expression “breast is best”. While there are so many wonderful aspects of breastfeeding, the mental health of a mother cannot be overlooked.
Have you sat back and thought about what you want? Do you want to breastfeed? Do you want to formula feed? Ultimately, as the mother, the choice is yours. Yes, breastfeeding is fantastic for nutrition, bonding, and health.
But guess what? You can do that with formula without compromising your mental health or the safety of your baby.
What if Breastfeeding Doesn’t Work?
After giving birth to my son, a child I prayed for for 5 years, I had severe postpartum depression. But at the time, I didn’t know it. Nursing was supposed to be easy. I was told that the “breast was best” – – repeatedly.
I was struggling to bond with my baby. It took nearly all of my energy just to get out of bed, let alone nurse and care for my crying son. I had no appetite so I didn’t eat. Nursing wasn’t working. My baby just cried. And so did I.
Fed is Best
Eighteen years later and I can still remember those early days in my son’s life. They were some of the hardest for me, and they are still some of the hardest memories for me. Luckily my family recognized postpartum depression and got me the help I needed.
My son was given a bottle. He drank it happily…and I cried. I went to counseling for my postpartum depression and the fog started to lift. I was never chastised for giving my son formula over breastfeeding. There was NOTHING wrong with me for giving my son formula.
I was not a failure for giving my son a bottle even though that’s the message I had been given by so many people trying to help. It was a message that did not help me or my newborn.
You are a Great Mother
You are not a failure for feeding your baby formula instead of breastfeeding. You’re a great mother because you are feeding your baby.
If you plan to breastfeed, that’s wonderful! If those plans change, remember, it’s okay. Your baby will be okay.
If you plan to formula feed, that’s wonderful! If those plans change, remember, it’s okay. Your baby will be okay.
The Decision, Breastfeeding or Formula, is Yours
The decision on how you feed your baby is yours. However you choose to feed your baby, breastfeeding or formula, the decision should be yours. If you are feeling pressured by someone to breastfeed, or pressured to bottle feed formula, please find someone you trust to talk to.
The fact is, a fed baby, whether breastmilk or formula, makes for a healthy baby. And a fed newborn, let’s face it, makes for a much happier mom. Exhausted still, yes, but happier.
You don’t have to feel like an island. You don’t have to live in the fog. Talk to someone you trust. It’s okay to need help. Ask for help.
Therapy for New Moms in Washington, PA
If you have been struggling with the “right” way to feed your baby, please, don’t fret. You’re doing great. If breastfeeding isn’t working, formula is okay. Ask your pediatrician what formula they recommend (they will probably even give you a few free cans) and just enjoy your baby. After all, your way is the best way, for you and your little one.
As a therapist specializing in helping new moms with postpartum depression, I understand how you feel. If you think you may be experiencing postpartum depression, contact your doctor and seek counseling. The sooner you get treatment, the sooner you will start to feel better. You don’t have to suffer alone. You can feel better and begin enjoying your baby and motherhood!
If you have any questions about postpartum depression, if you’re feeling overwhelmed as a new mom, or if you would just like to get to know me a little better, please call (724) 503-6670 or email me at admin@inthenowcounseling.org. You can also talk to me on Facebook and Instagram, too.
