The decision to breast-feed or bottle-feed is an important, personal one. Medical research indicates many advantages to breast-feeding, but no woman should feel pressured into making the choice. No one should make you feel guilty for formula feeding your child, or uncomfortable about breast-feeding your infant. A mom who is anxious with one method, but relaxed with another is better off choosing what makes her more comfortable. However important a role nutrition plays in a baby’s life, parental love, attention and interaction are ultimately more critical components for the baby’s well being. The baby will benefit from the calmer environment and the bonding between parent and child will be more firmly established.
Breastfeeding should be a pleasurable time for both baby and parent. Breastfeeding for the first time can be very anxiety-producing for some women. Is he getting enough? Is she crying and gassy because of something I ate? The responsibility of being the sole source of nutrition for this tiny being can be a heavy burden. Other moms who have breast-fed their babies can be a wonderful resource to help with questions and tips. Your health care provider might have a list of new mom groups in your area, or there might be a notice up on the bulletin board at the grocery store.
Breast milk is more easily digestible, so breast-fed babies tend to feed more frequently and more erratically in the beginning than formula-fed infants. To make sure the baby is well hydrated, and to assist in the establishment of breast-feeding, try to nurse at least every two hours during the day and every three hours at night. Certainly, if she wants to be fed more often, go ahead.
Formula-fed babies might go up to three hours between feedings. At this early age, their stomachs are small, so don’t expect them to take much more than 2 to 2-1/2 ounces per feeding. If you are bottle feeding with either formula or pumped breast milk, aim for an ounce an hour. If the baby takes 2 ounces, he’s fine for about two hours. If she only takes half an ounce, try feeding her again in an hour.
How do I know if she’s getting enough?
The best gauge for determining if your baby is feeding enough is by counting the number of wet diapers. Six to eight wet diapers in a 24 hour period of pale yellow or clear urine means the baby is well hydrated. Disposable diapers are designed to pull liquid away from the baby’s bottom, so check at the outside, next to the plastic for wetness. An unused diaper will have a dry, rough feel to it, whereas a wet one will have a soft, spongy, gelatinous feel. Orange spots on the diaper indicate the presence of uric acid crystals, a sign of dehydration. If you suspect dehydration is a problem, try to increase your baby’s fluid intake, and call your pediatrician.