For several decades, women have discussed, argued, ranted, and raved about the best method to use to feed their babies. The disagreements continue, and nobody ever seems to win these mostly friendly, but often frustrating debates. Statistics are thrown out, and pediatricians are quoted. Still, there remains the age old question of which is actually best for baby.
Pediatricians' Advice
If you are looking for medical advice to support your choice of breastfeeding
your baby, you don't need to look any further than the statement issued by the
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which recommends breast milk as the
preferred source of feeding for almost all babies until they reach the age of
one. The AAP has also issued a statement based on research that indicates
breastfeeding provides advantages unequaled by other feeding methods. Their
research also indicates that breast milk offers the best developmental and
psychological development for babies. Many pediatricians also recommend that
mothers try to breastfeed their infants exclusively for at least the first six
months.
Advantages of Breastfeeding
Such strong statements from the AAP are all that many women need to be
convinced that they must breastfeed their babies. However, many new moms don't
sit around studying medical manuals and research findings. When would they have
time even if they were inclined to do so? In the real world, women want
realistic and easy-to-understand answers to their questions.
Convenience
So, what are the many other advantages of breastfeeding your baby? If you are
the mom of a newborn or you know someone who is, you are also aware of how such
a tiny person can wreak havoc on a good night's sleep. When that baby cries, he
wants immediate attention and doesn't care if you've only slept for an hour. So,
as you stumble out of bed and head for the nursery, what will your next step be?
Can you pick your baby up and crawl back into bed to let him nurse peacefully
beside you, or do you have to stumble to the kitchen to warm a bottle, all the
while trying to settle his impatient howls? Breastfeeding is definitely
convenient, and it is free! Let's say you're going on an extended trip with your infant. If you are
breastfeeding, you don't have to carry half the nursery with you. There's no
need for large cans of formula, extra bottles, and bottle warmers. You've got
everything you need right with you, and breast milk is always at the perfect
temperature.