What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding?

(August 3, 2010)

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Breastfeeding

There are several decisions that expectant or new mothers need to take about the health and nourishment options for their newborn babies. One of the many decisions that women often need to take is whether or not to breastfeed her baby. It has been proven that breast milk is the best option for a baby and that there is no substitute for it. However, it may not be possible for all women to breastfeed their babies. The debate over breastfeeding versus bottle-feeding has been going on for quite a while now and there have been many arguments in favor of as well as against both the methods.

What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding?

Soon after delivery, you may need to decide whether or not you want to breastfeed your baby; this is an important decision, which will affect you as well as your child. Therefore, before deciding, it is best to review the pros and cons of breastfeeding:

Pros:

•   Breast milk is much easier for babies to digest, compared to formula milk
•   Breastfed babies have fewer instances of colic and usually cry less
•   Babies who have been breastfed usually have higher IQs as compared to those who haven’t and breast milk helps in the development of the baby’s brain
•   Breastfeeding is known to reduce the risks of breast and ovarian cancers. It is also an excellent calorie burner and can also prevent the menstrual cycle from returning too soon.
•   Breast milk is absolutely free and it is a lot easier to feed the baby directly, than preparing a bottle of formula milk
•   The act of breastfeeding helps create, enhance, and strengthen the bond between a mother and her newborn baby

Cons:

•   Working mothers may find breastfeeding a challenge, as finding the time to express the milk may not always be on option.
•   Women who breastfeed tend to feel more tired than others, mainly because of the extra calories that are used while producing the milk and feeding the baby.
•   It is quite common for a nursing mother to suffer from sore nipples.
•   At times, babies do not latch on properly, which can cause problems for both the baby and the mother.
•   Breasts may get too full with milk and may start leaking, which can be quite painful.

While there are advantages and disadvantages of breastfeeding, the final decision of whether or not to feed your baby ultimately rests with you.

Submitted by P T on August 3, 2010 at 12:57