The first time I Bottle-fed my son, it was at my in-laws’ and I literally had to hide inside my room to make his milk. You know how the world is! And I was ashamed myself. I thought breast was the best and I was doing something criminal to my son. However, later I played it smart and mixed bottles even before my child would cry, so people thought I had too much so I pumped and kept it ready.
Don’t mistake me. I am a huge advocate of breastfeeding but that does not mean moms who bottle feed deserve to be shamed. After all, they are feeding their babies too. After a lot of self-talk and convincing, I stood up for myself and began appreciating every other mom friend of mine, who decided to Formula-feed their baby. And here are 10 reasons why I totally don’t feel guilty about bottle-feeding my son.
My baby needed more
I ate well all through my pregnancy, my mom breastfed me until I was one but I could not produce enough to nurse my child or fill his tummy. Believe me or not, boys need more and being able to produce very little, I had no option but to switch to formula. At least my baby slept tummy full!
Exclusive breastfeeding did not suit my family
We are a family of three and I had to get back to work (like most moms) after my maternity leave. I did use pumps to leave my milk behind, but not as much as my son needed. Like I mentioned before, he needed more and I did not have. So, formula came to my rescue.
My baby thrived from formula feed
Even today, when I compare my son’s pre-and post formula pictures, I literally skip a heartbeat. He needed formula to thrive and it made a huge, undeniable difference. And that was how he grew from a skinny, jaundiced newborn to a healthy, chubby baby.
Formula is amazing
Firstly, I refuse to call it formula. According to me, it is nothing but scientifically approved milk. There are so many options available these days, catering to the various needs of babies. Well, having said that, in no way do I intend to mean breastmilk is bad. It just means they both are pretty awesome.
I don’t have to explain my choices
And at the end of it all, I think I have every right to decide how and what my son would eat. Those are my breasts, my baby and my decisions can only be for his good. So, I honestly don’t think women who bottle feed their babies need to have an argument or a reason in hand.
So, ladies, its time you stop blaming yourself or going on a guilt trip because you bottle-fed your baby. Remember, c-sections and bottle feeding do not make you any less of a mother!
Feature image source: Tescobabyclub.com
