Breastfeeding is no simple task. As an onlooker and a non-parent it may come off that way, but trust me when I say that even as a huge breastfeeding advocate I’ve had those moments when giving up breastfeeding seemed like a completely viable option. There are many factors to consider when making the decision for your family. The benefits of breastfeeding should not be ignored in moments of frustration, exhaustion, or weakness. Here are some facts to keep you going.
Breastfeeding saves you money.
The cost of formula for the first year is around $1,700 depending on the brand you use. This cost will vary depending on how long you breastfeed as well. By breastfeeding you are saving your family money you can use elsewhere on bills, clothing, or even a vacation! Kelly mom has an awesome calculator to figure out exactly how much you could save by breastfeeding. I just used the calculator for one of the leading recommended brands on sale in bulk at Sam’s and it was over $8,000 for the first year! Ouch.
Breastfeeding moms get more sleep.
Whether you’re co-sleeping or not, parents of breastfed babies get an average of 40-45 minutes more sleep than those of formula fed babies. Likewise, mothers of breastfed babies reported to having more energy to function throughout the day. This decrease in fatigue is said to have a dramatic effect on battling postpartum depression. It is often assumed that breastfeeding moms get less sleep because breastfed babies eat more often. However, formula feeding parents have to wake up, get completely out of bed and make a bottle. Then they have to hold the bottle for the duration of a feeding. This causes an increase in exhaustion and less sleep overall.
Breast milk has antibodies!
Old news, I know. I recently dove into the myth that women should stop breastfeeding due to illness. While on a mission to dispel this myth, I found out just how amazing breast milk is! Our bodies make antibodies for every virus that the mother comes in contact with. This is done right away so that the baby gets the antibodies before the virus has a chance to attack your baby’s fragile immune system! Pretty neat, huh? When giving up breastfeeding you are also giving up those awesome biological advances. To read more about what is in breast milk, check out the components here.
Breastfeeding gets easier.
All those hiccups you come across as a new mama with a newborn will soon be fading memories. Those latch issues, bouts of thrush, and clogged milk ducts do pass. After 6 or 7 months you’ll both be considered professionals and you can look back and think, “Yay we did it!” Babies don’t last forever, and before you know it you’ll be sending the little nursling off to school.
If you are struggling with common breastfeeding issues such as a poor latch, thrush, or clogged milk ducts don’t panic! There are trained professionals in your area to help you right away. Call your care provider and ask for a lactation consultant. Most LCs are on-call and willing to meet with you for emergencies. You do not have to give up breastfeeding to enjoy your new role as a parent. There are other solutions that can better benefit you and your baby. Seek encouragement and find physical support.
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