Post on 02-Jan-2016
Breast v. Bottle
Georgia CTAE Resource Network
Instructional Resources Office
Breastfeeding
Breast milk is the perfect food baby It is the only food baby needs during
his/her first six months Breastfeeding is natural but it takes
time
Benefits of Breastfeeding (for the baby)
The perfect food Easily digested Less likely to be overfed Carries disease fighting antibodies Develop fewer food allergies Generally have fewer illnesses Perfect temperature Individualized for each infant
Benefits to the Mother
Convenient No cost! Helps uterus to return to normal size Increases metabolism for weight loss Already sanitized No preparation Decreases woman’s risk of developing
breast cancer later in life Suppresses ovulation and menstruation Strengthens mother’s bones
Bottle Feeding Benefits
Others can share the work Baby can be fed and
cuddle from others Mother has a chance to rest Mother can leave the infant for many hours
at a time if necessary Mother does not have to be as careful about
what she consumes May be preferable for a woman who is
inhibited about her body Mother’s body back to being her own
Bottle Feeding Tips Three types of formula:
Powdered formula – cheapest, powder that must be mixed with sterilized water
Concentrated formula – liquid that must be mixed with sterilized water
Ready-to-feed formula – most expensive, but easiest, already mixed with water
Sterilize all bottles and nipples before using Never heat formula in the microwave – HOT SPOTS! Check the temp before feeding – it should fill warm on your
wrist, not hot or cold Hold baby’s head a little higher than his tummy Make sure the nipple stays full of formula Never prop the bottle
Is Baby Getting Enough Milk? Six to eight wet diapers Three to five bowel movements Baby gains at least a pound a month Baby eats every 1-1/2 to 3 hours;
averaging about 8 to 12 feedings a day
Feeding Basics
Feed baby when he/she starts rooting or sucking on his/her lips
Try to feed before the baby cries
Burping Baby
You should burp your baby after one or two ounces if bottle feeding and after five minutes if breastfeeding.
There are several positions to place baby while burping:Over your shoulderIn your lapLying over knees