Breastfeeding or powdered milk: which to choose?

The choice between breastfeeding and formula feeding is a crucial one for many new parents. You may have already heard your relatives, doctors or other mothers give their opinions on the best way to feed a newborn.

 

Between the WHO's recommendations and the social pressure that can weigh on young mothers, it's not always easy to disentangle the true from the false.

 

So, how do you make the right choice? What are the advantages and limitations of each option? And how do you equip yourself to feed your child with complete peace of mind?

 

Advantages of breastfeeding and formula milk

Breastfeeding: a concentrate of benefits

When it comes to the benefits of breastfeeding, it's no exaggeration to say that there are many. Scientific studies all agree on the importance and nutritional value of breast milk.

 

• Ideal composition for infants: Rich in nutrients, antibodies and enzymes, breast milk adapts to baby's needs over the weeks, making each feed unique. It helps strengthen baby's immune system and contributes to the optimal development of his digestive system.
• Stronger emotional bond: Breastfeeding encourages close, skin-to-skin contact, providing a moment of calm and complicity between mother and child. The hormones released during feeding (particularly oxytocin) reinforce this feeling of attachment.
• Benefits for the mother: In addition to the pleasure shared with her baby, breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of certain diseases such as breast and ovarian cancer.
• Practical and economical: breast milk is always available, at the right temperature, and requires no prior preparation. In financial terms, it also represents significant savings compared with the regular purchase of powdered milk, since it costs nothing.

 

Finally, it's worth remembering that recommendations from the WHO and many health professionals encourage exclusive breastfeeding up to the age of six months, before gradually diversifying an infant's diet.

 

Powdered milk: an alternative, but not equivalent

Infant milk (or powdered milk) is an alternative that may prove necessary in certain cases, whether due to health problems (medication incompatible with breastfeeding, particular pathologies, etc.) or personal constraints (return to work, lactation difficulties, mother's choice, etc.).

 

Although breastfeeding is and always will be the best option available, this is not to demonize formula milk: many babies grow up perfectly healthy on this solution. However, it is essential to bear in mind that its composition, although controlled, does not exactly reproduce the complexity of breast milk.

 

• Health safety: Infant formulas are strictly regulated and comply with very precise health standards. They are therefore a safe option for feeding your childwhen breastfeeding is not possible or not desired.
• Flexibility: Since other people can also bottle-feed, powdered milk offers greater organizational flexibility. Fathers, grandparents or a nanny can all take part in feeding the baby.
• Cost: Powdered milk involves a sometimes substantial monthly budget, to which must be added the purchase of feeding bottles, sterilizers and so on. At the same time, formulas can be more or less expensive, depending on the brand and specific features (anti-regurgitation milk, hypoallergenic milk, etc.).

 

Choosing formula milk can be a relief for some moms, especially if breastfeeding is too stressful.

 

Nevertheless, from a purely nutritional and immunological point of view, breast milk remains the most suitable option for baby, provided mom is willing and able to offer it.

 

What's more, powdered milk doesn't have a monopoly on flexibility! For mothers who want to, there are breast pumps (manual or electric) that allow them to extract their milk and store it in the fridge (for up to 4 days) or in the freezer (preferably for up to 3 months, and NEVER longer than 6 months), in case the milk runs dry, or to allow other family members to feed baby!

 

Breastfeeding or formula milk: a personal choice that can be supported

Whether you opt for breastfeeding or infant formula, the final decision must take into account your personal situation, desires and constraints.

 

For those who wish to breastfeed, it' s vital to have the right support right from the start of the pregnancy: advice on latching on, suitable positions, management of any cracks or engorgement, etc. A trained healthcare professional (midwife, lactation consultant, etc.) can greatly facilitate the early stages and prevent many difficulties.

 

Getting off to a good start with breastfeeding, or using formula milk

Whether you want to breastfeed or are still hesitating about formula, find out more before the birth of your child. Talk to your midwife, read reference books, join support groups...

 

Some babies suck quickly and efficiently, others take their time. It's important to respect this rhythm, rather than compare yourself to others. If you have any concerns (doubts, pain, reduced lactation), turn to a professional or a support group. You're not the first to experience these issues, and getting the right advice can make all the difference.

 

Breastfeeding to the full: the importance of being well-equipped

If you decide to breastfeed, one of the biggest obstacles you may encounter, especially after returning to active life, remains embarrassment or discomfort when feeding your child in public or outside your home.

 

This is where nursing garments come into their own. Specifically designed to facilitate access to the breast, they ensure discretion, practicality and comfort:

 

- Clever openings: concealed zippers, buttons or flaps allow the breast to be taken out quickly, without having to undress completely. Baby can feed in complete peace, while mom feels more at ease.

- Soft, stretchy fabrics: Nursing garments are often made from pleasant fabrics, suitable for contact with the baby's sensitive skin and the mother's changing body.

- Variety of styles: Gone are the days when breastfeeding outfits boiled down to basic tops! Today, there are dresses, shirts, sweaters and more, enabling every mother to preserve her identity and style, even while breastfeeding.

 

Whether you only want to breastfeed, or also want to use formula, 23 Mai Paris is there for you.

You've decided to breastfeed, and you'd like to make sure you have every chance to enjoy the experience with peace of mind? Then take a look at the 23 Mai Paris range of nursing clothes.

With quality materials, flattering cuts and discreet openings, 23 Mai Paris allows you to feed your baby in any situation: in a restaurant, on a walk, at friends', or even at formal events... and should you decide to stop breastfeeding, your investment won't be wasted, since these garments feature careful designs that allow them to be worn at any time of your life!

 

So you can enjoy all the benefits of breastfeeding without sacrificing your personal style and comfort.