Is Breast Milk Better Than Formula?
Some women may find breastfeeding too difficult or stressful or have medical conditions that may prevent them from breastfeeding. Commercially prepared infant formulas are a nutritious alternative to breast milk. Baby formulas attempt to duplicate breast
milk through a complex combination of proteins, sugars, fats and vitamins. Formulas even contain some vitamins and nutrients breastfed babies need from supplements like vitamin D and iron.
However, there are also challenges when choosing whether to formula feed. Manufactured formulas are not capable of recreating the antibodies found in breast milk, so they cannot provide a baby with the added protection against infection and illnesses
that breast milk does.
Manufactured formulas have yet to duplicate the complexity of breast milk, which adjusts as the baby's needs change. Using baby formula also requires planning and organization to ensure it's always on hand and served at the right temperature. Hypoallergenic
and soy-based specialty formulas cost far more than the basic formulas. Formula-fed babies may have more gas and firmer bowel movements than breastfed babies.
Deciding whether to feed your baby with breast milk or manufactured formula can be difficult. Talk to your doctor or lactation consultant so they can provide you with more information about your options.
Are Breastfed Babies Healthier?
According to the WHO, breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests and are less likely to develop life-threatening diseases like obesity and diabetes later in life. Any amount of breast milk reaps positive benefits. However, the longer you
breastfeed, the longer the protection lasts and the greater the benefits for you and your baby.
How Long Should You Breastfeed?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding your child for about six months and then gradually introducing foods and drinks other than breast milk and infant formula (also called complementary foods) until your child reaches
12 months old or older.
Remember, it is a good practice to encourage healthy eating patterns at a young age to promote healthy habits in the future. Give your child various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, meats, yogurt and cheeses. When your child reaches 12 months old, you
can offer plain, whole cow's milk or fortified unsweetened soy beverages aside from water, breast milk and infant formula.
Who Shouldn't Breastfeed?
There are rare instances when human milk or breastfeeding is not recommended. Some medical conditions, such as chemotherapy or certain medicines, can be unsafe for babies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend breastfeeding
or feeding expressed breast milk (milk produced from squeezing milk out of your breast for storage and later use) to infants in the following situations:
- Infants diagnosed with classic galactosemia, a rare genetic metabolic disorder that affects how the body processes a simple sugar called galactose.
- Mothers infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
- Mothers infected with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I or II.
- Mothers using illicit street drugs, such as phencyclidine (PCP) or cocaine.
- Mothers suspected or infected with Ebola virus disease.
What Is a Lactation Consultant?
A lactation consultant is a professional specially trained to provide general prenatal and postpartum breastfeeding support under the supervision of a physician. Education and management help mothers address the many challenges of breastfeeding and lactation,
such as nipple pain and low milk supply.
Mothers and parents need to talk to their doctor or lactation consultant to help them weigh their options to make the best decision for their baby and family.
Learning the basics of breastfeeding is a good first step. Take part in our breastfeeding support group at Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital and connect with other breastfeeding mothers. Register for this event and learn from an on-site lactation consultant
for a personalized breastfeeding journey.
Breastfeeding Support and Lactation Services
Every story has a beginning.
When you give birth at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tucson, our team of experienced and compassionate professionals aims to provide an amazing experience to ensure you and your baby receive the care and comfort you need during your stay.
From lactation services to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for high-risk pregnancies, we have everything you need for the arrival of your little bundle of joy. We offer certified lactation consultants with extensive clinical knowledge to provide everything you need to know for your new beginning.
Our goal is to promote successful breastfeeding. If you prefer to learn about breastfeeding before your baby's arrival, we offer a breastfeeding basics class taught by a lactation consultant. After your hospital stay, you are welcome to attend our breastfeeding
support group for additional advice or to share your experience.
Find an OB/GYN in Tucson
Our compassionate care does not end with delivery. Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital is committed to guiding you through your journey as you transition into parenthood. Visit our facility and meet our dedicated staff so you know what to expect on your
big day.
To learn more about maternity services at Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital in Tucson, please call 520-873-3000 or check out our list of obstetric services. We're here for you, always.
