Breastfeeding

(or go straight to tips for Bottle-feeding)

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Did you know? Breast milk has many benefits for babies that are superior to formula. Babies who are breastfed are reportedly less likely to get sick (with diarrhea, gastrointestinal illness, urinary-tract infections, respiratory disease, pneumonia or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), less likely to have allergies, less likely to have later weight problems, less likely to have ear infections, and -- according to a study published in the May 8, 2002, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association -- likely to be more intelligent.

 

Not only is breastfeeding better for the baby, however, research also says it's better for the mother. Among potential benefits to mothers: 500 more calories burned per day, possibly leading to quicker weight loss; stimulation of the hormone oxytocin, potentially leading to less postpartum bleeding; (if breastfeeding is long-term) possibly lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer; recalcification of bone during the weaning process, possibly leading to stronger bones; and a possible reduced risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

 

Safer Child Tips and Suggestions for Successful Long-term Breastfeeding, Based on Our Experience:

Sexual Reaction to Breastfeeding

Breast Pumps

Exercising and Breastfeeding

Environmental Contaminants

Sagging Breasts

Sore Nipples

If Baby Cuts Feeding Time

Child's Growing Awareness of Environment

Storing Breast Milk

When to Start Using a Bottle with Breast Milk In It

Using a Special Chair

Breastfeeding in Bed

Mother's Thirst and Hunger

Breastfeeding and Schedules

Be Wary of Advice to Supplement with Formula

Old Weight Charts

Find a Support Group

Links to Helpful Information on Breastfeeding

Bottle-feeding With Formula

Which is best for the baby (and for you)? Breast milk or formula?

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If you decide to bottle-feed with formula:

Safer Child feels strongly about the benefits of breastfeeding, but we recognize that not everyone is able to breastfeed, and not everyone wants to breastfeed. If you must bottle-feed, or if you decide to bottle-feed, you should know that today's infant formula is considered the best quality it's ever been. We have tried to find support sites for bottle-feeding moms, including two from the FDA. If you know of other sites that would help bottle-feeding moms, please tell us. And we thank you!

Bottle-feeding help:

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