Breastfeeding, Formula Milk and Motherhood
By: Neha Singh
Tags: Formula Milk, Breastfeeding, Newborn, Motherhood

If you have stepped into the shoes of motherhood recently, you must have come across the phrase “Mother’s milk is best for the baby.” This sentence may have been repeated multiple times by your In-Laws, or women in you family. Although, there is no denying the fact that Mother’s milk is the best, as it contains a lot of nutrients, Colostrum, anti-bodies and enzymes for good digestion along with countless benefits. But what if the Mother is not able to produce enough milk or sometimes no milk? Does that mean one is failing to be a good mother, or that her baby will not build that bond with her? Sometimes, a mother may not be able to produce enough breastmilk as per the demand of the newborn baby due to various reasons. But then the question arises, “Can I give formula milk to my baby? Is it safe for newborn? Does it have any side effects?”

What is formula milk? Formula milk is milk powder for babies that contains all types of nutrients that a newborn needs. Although there is no comparison between breastmilk and Formula Milk, but it is safe to say that it is the best alternative for breast milk for newborn baby. It should also be noted that only breastfeeding doesn’t define motherhood. A Baby is connected to mother from the very first day through umbilical cord. It is true that skin to skin contact strengthens your bond with your baby but other than breastfeeding one can give skin to skin contact through cuddling, hugging and many more ways.

Formula milk is good but why not cow milk or buffalo milk. Cow milk contains high proteins and minerals which is not good for babies immature kidney. It also contains high concentration of sodium which is sometimes toxic for the babies. Formula milk is made up of processed skimmed cow’s milk with added emulsifiers and stabilisers. It also contains plant based oils such as rapeseed oil, palm oil etc, amino acids, enzymes, lactose while some formula milk powder also contains probiotics.

Formula milk is sometimes helpful along with breastfeeding for the babies with low birth weight to increase their weight. In some occasions if breastfeeding is not possible then infant formula milk powder is the best option. Other pros of formula milk is that anyone can feed baby so father can also feed baby in the night and mothers can get extra rest time, don’t have to worry about your eating habits as compare to breastfeeding mother who have to avoid some type of foods.It is also good for lactose intolerance baby as lactose free milk powder are also available in market

With so many pros of Formula milk there might be some cons also.

It can cause digestive problem sometimes such as gassy babies. One should be extra careful regarding the milk temperature and extra care is needed regarding hygiene, sterilised bottles, nipples and boiled water. While expenses for milk powder, bottles and sterilisers may increase, but the advantages are not something that can be ignored.

To conclude, formula milk is good. It can not substitute the breast milk, but it is no way inferior to mother’s breastmilk in comparison. So, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. In the end, it’s all about enjoying the motherhood. Enjoy the sleepless nights, the stinky diapers and the smiles of your newborn when they look at you. You are doing a great job Mommy !