I've exclusively breastfed Dylan for close to 5mos. A few weeks ago, we started with formula feeding (when my supply drops and whenever I leave the house). I'm a stay-at-home mom so I don't have to pump anymore. And I personally think that it's too tedious compared to just letting it all hang. Haha. Plus a good automatic pump is super duper expensive! But I'm really planning to buy one cos I'm going back to work soon. I'll talk about the pros first then the cons and some tips to amp up your milk supply. Here goes!
Pros
- It's economical. Hello, it's free! Need I say more?
- Convenient. No need to wash and sterilize feeding bottles. Milk is always warm and ready. Less burping needed. Less colic too!
- Breastfed babies are more resistant to disease and infection.
- Breastfed babies tend to develop faster.
- Breastfed children are less likely to develop psychological and behavioral learning problems as they grow older. You're raising happy and smart babies!
- Breastfed babies are less likely to develop food allergies.
- Breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytoxin, responsible for shrinking the uterus back in all its glorious state more quickly.
- Breastfeeding helps with the weight loss. But you know in most cases, the body will hold onto the last 10lbs (my case). But don't fret cos after weaning, the weight comes off as well.
- Breastfeeding gives you a sense of pride as a mother. You're a milk making machine so be proud! Plus the bond of a nursing mother and her child is stronger than any other human contact.
- Breastfeeding works as a natural contraceptive so it helps with child spacing. That is if you're breastfeeding exclusively (and you have lactational amenorrhea).
- And a lot more about preventing certain types of cancer, diabetes, etc.
Cons
- The only con I could think of is that you have to constantly watch what you eat. It's hard especially if you enjoy eating. In my case, I had to cut down on chocolates, cakes and pastries included. I had to avoid spicy and greasy food. I can't drink coffee, tea and wine; which makes me sad sometimes especially if I'm around with friends. That's it! I don't care about my sore gorged breasts and cracked nipples. Seriously, I don't care about them. And over-the-counter cosmetics can wait too.
And some tips for a joyful breastfeeding journey
- Stay stress-free. I noticed that when I'm too stressed out my milk supply drops. And the baby gets all sorts of fussy. So try your best to stay relaxed and calm when nursing the baby.
- Take moringa supplements. It helps with the milk supply production by upping it up to 200%. That's a lot! (plus moringa supplements make the skin glow. heeeeh)
- Have soup! Especially those of ginger-based clam/mussel soups.
- Buy a pretty yet light nursing cover to make you feel well pretty and the baby comfortable.
- Have fun! You'll miss it badly once its over. So cherish every feeding moment.
If you can, choose to breastfeed your baby. Breastfeeding rocks so the hell with the cons. ;)
