Breast or Bottle?

Give your baby what she needs in a way that is right for you.

Let’s get one thing straight right away: your baby can grow and thrive irrespective of whether you opt for breastfeeding or bottle feeding. What’s more important for your baby’s nutrition in the first few weeks is that you both feel relaxed and comfortable. So trust your own instincts and don’t let anybody pressurize you.

... you will know that breast milk contains everything that your child needs for the first six months of life –always in the correct quantity, at the right temperature, and immediately available wherever you both might be. Even if you should fall ill, your baby won’t lose out in any way. In fact, your baby is actually absorbing essential antibodies as well as nutrients from your milk. Breast milk works like an inoculation for your child against a large number of acute illnesses both now and in later life, such as infections, inflammations, diarrhoea and allergies, to name but a few.

Breastfeeding is also a positive experience for you as a mother. Aside from its practical advantages and the way in which it allows you and your baby to bond deeply, breastfeeding is also soothing to body and soul. In short, breastfeeding gives your baby (and you) the best start in life. 

... bottle feeding is a good alternative. Bottles can be used to feed your baby expressed breast milk. Otherwise, today’s infant milk formulas are perfectly adequate, apart from their lack of antibodies. Using a bottle to feed your child will not stand in the way of you both forming a deep connection. What’s more: it also lets your baby's father, grandparents or other caregivers take a turn at feeding for a change. Don’t let these advantages stop you from breastfeeding though, if this is still an option.