Breastfeeding Vs. Bottle-fed

I breastfed.
My choice.
My daughter would NOT take bottles of pumped milk.
My son would.
I had NO horror stories nor experiences about breastfeeding.
My kids are REAL healthy.
Breastfeeding saves money too.
I did not lose weight per breastfeeding.
After my kids self-weaned from breast, I had NO problems per drying up. Nor was it painful.

I had a good experience, per breastfeeding.
That is my experience.

I tried breastfeeding for a few weeks. Neither of my twins latched on well and it left me frustrated & sad. I ended up pumping and supplementing with formula until they were 4 months. When they were 4 months my supply became just a trickle so i switched to just formula. This was the best choice for me & my babies. To be honest i was really on the fence about even trying breastfeeding, its wasnt terriable just not for me. I dont remember any pain just a little uncomfortableness when i stopped producing milk.
You will know when the time comes what the best choice is for you.

What is best for your baby?

Feeding your child, loving your child, and taking care of yourself to maintain your sanity.

That can be achieved with breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

Here is a link to an article that is not necessarily balanced but helpful. Know what you're walking into if you DON'T choose to nurse, the judgment, the comments, etc.:

http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2009/04/the-c...

You must be getting info from formula feeders because the info you got couldn't be farther from the truth!

1) Breastfed babies have been shown in multiple studies to be healthier physically (antibodies and lactoferrin in breastmilk make them more stronger to withstand infections, disease and viruses - not to mention diarrhea and constipation is much less an issue)

2) Healthier emotionally (They have been shown to exhibit more confidence, curiousity and independence with less regression. They are also more likely to be less clingy)

3) Healthier mentally (IQ tests are higher for breastfed babies... so if a formula fed baby had a high IQ, imagine what it COULD HAVE been if they were breastfed?!)

4) Breasts were developed/designed to nurse full time for a year and have a slow weaning process of another 2 years (complete weaning around 3-4 years old). If you stop suddenly at ANY time or before a year - your breasts will be a bit sore due to going against what they were designed for.

5) Breastfeeding lowers the Mother's chances of getting ovarian, breast, cervical and uterine cancers - the most optimal results occur if breastfeeding over 2 years. Breastfeeding helps baby so much too... read the above 1-3.

6) Please never forget that breastfeeding is the NORMAL and optimal nutrition for your baby. Breastmilk does not get recalled, does not contain dozens of synthetic chemical compounds you cannot pronounce, nor does it's container contain unhealthy chemicals which are just now being found out about (BPA in formula canisters).

What's best for the baby is what the mom is happy with, comfortable with and suited to.

Don't let the booby brigade make YOUR choice for YOU.

The weight loss is largely a myth, as is the bottle fed babies are sicker. Simply not true.

Research FACTUAL sites, articles, etc.
Even then, I don't think you'll "know" til you try it whether it's for you or not.

You don't need your identity as a mom to be defines by bottle or breast. Some of the best moms I know bottle fed and some of the biggest wacko-job moms I know breast fed.

I liked MR's answer "Feeding your child, loving your child, and taking care of yourself to maintain your sanity."

I see you are receiving much propaganda from the Booby Brigade, but just to set the false claims straight with some facts:

FACT:
New research shows no direct link between breastfeeding and intelligence later in life. In the largest study ever to address the issue, researchers found a positive impact for breastfeeding on intelligence only when other potential contributors -- such as the mother's IQ and the parents' educational and economic status -- were not taken into consideration. When these variables were considered, breastfeeding was found to have little impact on a child's IQ.

FACT:
According to Dr. Scott Cohen of ParentsAsk.com, it's a myth that breastfed babies are always healthier than formula-fed babies.

FACT:
It's the skin-to-skin contact that makes babies feel emotionally secure--not mouth-to-breast.

Breastfeeding may be "NORMAL" to many, and "NOT NORMAL" to others. You need to decide your normal.

There are oddities out there....watch out for false claims! Make your own decisions and do what's right for YOU and YOUR baby.

I see you are only 5 weeks along. You have a good while to think about your options and your choices. Try reading a variety of breastfeeding books. This may help make you more comfortable with your decision.

I FF my kids and it honestly drives me batty when women say "oh the cost.." I am a coupon nut and so far I have all my formual stocked up till she will be a year and I got a name brand for $10 a can. At a can a week for 52 weeks thats $520. Ya that is alot... but if you look at people like my SIL who thinks she has to have a $300 pump plust the $80 bag to go with it and then she still has to have all the bottles and sterilizers b/c she works and the nursing pads and the coolers, etc, etc etc... (this is not knocking anybody - only my SIL b/c she is a goof) at this point in comparison with her, me FF was cheaper then her BF'ing.

Yes they say breast is best... but do what makes you happy and baby happy.

Good luck and congrats!

Unfortunately, you won't know what is best for you until your baby is here. Listening to your body, and your baby, are key. Let me give you a little back story.

I started out breastfeeding...my daughter latched very easily, ate well, grew well, all in all we had no complication. However, at about a week old she began crying constantly. People said she was colicy, fussy, all the key phrases that don't mean much of anything to a sleep deprived mother who's already at the end of her emotional rope. I knew something was wrong. I took her to a GI specialist and she was diagnosed with a dairy/soy protein intolerance. Anything that I was eating that had dairy, casein, soy, whey, and a host of other ingredients was causing her body extreme pain. Her pediatrician failed to diagnose this because she liked to eat and was still thriving (this is rare with this diagnosis). Now, I could have altered my diet (to include basically chicken and vegetables) but I chose to bottle feed at 4 weeks old, using a specialized formula that has already been broken down. THIS WAS THE BEST DECISION FOR MY FAMILY!

I struggled with this a lot. I felt inadequate, like I had failed my daughter. But ultimately, I realized this was as far from the truth as I could get. During my struggle I read this "it's not what you feed your baby that matters most, it's how you feed her." This really hit home for me. I snuggled my daughter, caressed her face, sang to her, just simply enjoyed feeding time...all while giving her a bottle. At 18 months old my daughter is a thriving, happy, healthy, well adjusted (and smart!) little girl. Making the right choice for our family, and not being afraid to choose a path that was against the mainstream has allowed for this. Don't be afraid to reassess your desires or your situation daily. YOU have to also be well taken care of in order to best provide for your little one.

Sorry for the long winded response, just something I'm passionate about. Trust yourself and your instincts, no one knows your baby like you do!

I bottle fed and my kids are very healthy! While there are obvious extra antibodies in breast milk that can't be replicated with formula...my kids are doing just fine. You have to do what's best for you and baby!! If you can breastfeed great but if you can't...Formula is fine and your kids will survive. Bottom line...down the road it will be the lifestyle you set as an example and what they choose when they get older that will determine their health. I.e. foods they eat...how many veggies, sleep patterns, exercise etc..

BTW..My third who is in daycare...did not get his first ear infection/congestion until he was a year old and he was bottle fed.

It depends. Scientifically, we know what's best (breast)...but it doesn't always work like that. I never produced any milk, so I didn't have a choice. I honestly think I would have formula fed, anyway. The idea of breastfeeding makes me VERY uncomfortable. I know it's natural, but that doesn't mean it feels natural for everyone. The idea of my child on my breast suckling...I just don't like that. It's not because I've over-sexualized my breasts, either. It IS a private body part, sexual or not. One that I don't feel comfortable exposing, or having someone attached to. Emotionally, mentally, and physically...breastfeeding can be very hard. I've had friends who've tried and it devastated them. I've had friends who've tried and succeeded. It wasn't a struggle for them. You won't know what your body will do, until your baby is born.

Anyway, I knew formula was best for us. When your baby is born, you might feel totally comfortable about breastfeeding. It might automatically be a wonderful thing for you and your baby. You might know right away that's what you want to do. And, you might feel it's not. That's OK. I have many teachers in my family. They will all tell you, that they have no idea who was breastfed and who was bottlefed. There are "mommy wars" about breast vs. bottle, but the truth is once they aren't a baby no one knows how they were fed. And, no one cares. My son is two years old and has never been sick. We are good parents and that sets him up for a wonderful life, much more then how we fed him as an infant.

Both feeding methods are fine. You will know what feels best when baby gets here.

Breastfeeding is HANDS DOWN better for you and your baby. Breastfed babies get sick LESS, it strengthens their immune systems, the benefits really just go on and on. And I've been breastfeeding for 6 months now and I'm thinner than before I got pregnant, so that's an added bonus for sure! And yes, you will have to dry up whether you breast feed or not, the milk comes in regardless of what you decide. But your body makes it for a reason, I would say absolutely to breastfeed if you can. Yes, it has it's challenges, but it's all so worth it - It's the best decision you can make for you and your baby! :)

It's not even debatable. Breastmilk wins hands down. Of course, breastmilk is only as healthy as the body of the woman providing it, so make sure you make good food and lifestyle choices if you plan to breastfeed.
I noticed a lot of people have recommended "trying it out" (breastfeeding) and having bottles and formula on hand just in case it doesn't work out. Well, if you're going to breastfeed you really need to be committed to it in order for it to "work out." It won't necessarily work out on it's own, you need to be willing to troubleshoot, if necessary, and don't be so quick to give up just because your nipples get dry and sore, or because the baby doesn't latch on properly, or whatever. THere are tons of resources out there, if only people would utilize them.

Hook up with a lactation consultant while you are at the hospital. Get her card with her phone number so that you can contact her from home if you run into trouble. Most of the problems associated with breastfeeding are temporary and fixable, with the right help. I had 4 cases of mastitis in 4 months but powered through and continued to breastfeed. It was so worth it! No bottles to wash, no expensive formula to buy and mix up/heat up, no bottle bag to carry around with me, the food was right there, ready to go!

My advice is to read a lot about breastfeeding NOW, not after the baby comes, and decide what you want to do NOW, not later. If your decision is to breastfeed, know your resources. Find out if there are any La Leche League meetings in your area so you have a place to go to ask questions, meet other breastfeeding moms, etc. Ask to speak with a lactation consultant after baby is born, like I already mentioned. Look for "mommy and me" type groups in your area. THey are often a wonderful place to talk to other moms about the barriers to breastfeeding, and how to overcome them. Finding your resources now will prevent anxiety later on if you do run into trouble. A great book to keep in your house is, The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. If you're not one to seek out resources in your community, at least get a copy of this book, as it will answer most of your breastfeeding questions.

I exclusively formula fed and both of my boys have been very healthy. BUT, I have read and any Pediatrition will tell you that breast is best! If you're willing, breastfeeding is definitely worth a try and if it doesn't work for you and your baby, you can switch to formula.

I chose to go the formula route and my 16 yr old daughter is a picture of great health.

Yes it is a huge debate but it boils down to what you choose for your family and whatever you choose is your business. Don't let the BF'rs pressure you if you don't want to.

I have an aversion to BF and I was not a candidate for it at all. I don't like to see it either. I hated the BF nazi's at the hospital.... they wouldn't give me formula until my husband threatened them with security and my Dr told them to back off.

My neice and nephew were both BF the first year and BOTH have severe allergies, must have breathing treatments regularly, sickly and my neice just had surgery for scoloisis. Now I know BF did not cause those issues but I don't believe it is all it is cracked up to be.

I suppose now the hate mail will begin....

Breastmilk is best. I have never heard anyone say otherwise. Never. Whomever is telling you that breastfed babies are sicker more often has been misinformed.

Even the commercials for formula put a disclaimer on the bottom that reads "pediatricians agree, breastmilk is best". A simple google search or a dicussion with your future pediatrician will tell you this. I can tell you from experience, breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding and wonderful things you can do for your baby.

Drying up the milk is not as bad as you think. You don't listen to all the horror stories about marriage, giving birth, etc because most are not the norm. Well, same idea here. Simply start nursing less and less, or pump less and less, and your milk dries up. There are many tricks you can do to make the process less painful, like anything else that is not the most comfortable thing to deal with. It won't be the most fun thing you have ever done, but it definitely shouldn't be something that worries you or discourages you from giving your baby nature's perfect food. Same thing with regard to your chest. Small chested and large chested women alike are very capable of nursing.

Best wishes....

It is the opposite...bottle-fed babies are said to be sick more often than breast fed babies. Ask your Dr. Your baby gets the advantages of your built up immunities through your milk. Formula companies will even admit that none of them are as good or better than breast milk. You need to do what you want to do and what you are comfortable with. I will not tell you that you must breastfeed (hundreds will, I am sure). However, I would recommend trying to BF from the beginning if you are considering it as an option. You can always quit and go to the bottle later if it is not for you. Not everyone suffers pain when the baby weans (I did not at 19 months). I did breast-feed because I looked at it as simple as this: if breastmilk is the best thing for him, that is what I will feed my child. I have friends who formula fed and that is their choice. They are great mothers. Breast vs formula does not define you as a mother. My mother formula fed all three of us and we are very healthy so I don't share the "poison in a can" view as so many others on this board. If I had another baby, I would breast feed again, however. All for the same reasons as I did my first. Good luck.

Nothing is as healthy or safe for your baby as breastmilk. Not saying you're the devil if you don't do it, but nothing is as good for the baby. I got shingles when my first born was not even 8 weeks old - she was saved from getting chicken pox because of the antibodies my body made for her. I breastfed all 3 of mine until they were ready to stop, and then we stopped gradually, so no pain at all in the drying up arena. I know people who have not breastfed at all and they have said it is horrible when your milk is coming in. I know I had pain when my babies didn't want to eat...

My take was that I wanted to try nursing because you can't change your mind in 6 months if you don't start out nursing. So I did and ended up nursing my child (at least PT) til she was 2.5 yrs old. I had no problems "drying up" and she just gradually weaned with a little encouragement from me. The last 6-9 months or so was mostly just before bed.

It is good for the baby, and it's good for you on many levels. It releases hormones that make you feel good and I have also read that it may help bone density and lower your risk of breast cancer.

I did have some initial pain but that was quickly resolved with a better latch and some Tylenol. The first weeks are hardest, but if you make it 4-6 weeks, you'll be well on your way to nursing long-term.

With a larger chest, you may have to find a better hold for YOU but many larger women nurse just fine.

I would seek out a La Leache League group and/or a certified lactation center/counselor and friends who would support you. It was invaluable to have friends who could answer my questions based on their own experiences. Kellymom.com is also a good resource.

My DD was no more sick than any other kid and might have even been more well. They get a certain amount of immunity from you. Also, when she was truly sick (we all got the flu for Christmas one year) breastmilk is a "clear liquid" so when she couldn't take anything else I could nurse and keep her hydrated.

I also pumped and nursed while working FT for her first year or so, til I changed jobs. It can work. I learned to nurse in public with my cover (personal preference) and I never had to worry about a bottle while we were out and about.

So, if you're on the fence, give it a go. That's my opinion.

Who told you that breastfed babies get sick more? It's actually the other way around. You can always pump. It's the breastmilk that is the most important part. Yes you get the bonding experience through skin on skin. but the nutrients and antibodies from the breastmilk are what truely helps the baby.

And the drying up doesn't hurt. It only hurts when you get engorged. If you don't let that happen and taper off slowly you won't have any pain. I don't know were your getting your facts, but they are strange.

Do what you think is right for you and your child. Try breastfeeding for yourself though. Don't let anyone tell you not to try. If it doesn't work out for you then try pumping and bottle feed the baby. If you can't find time to pump and you dry up then at least you tried it. Whatever you decide I wish you the best of luck!!! :)

Not sure if that is a typo or not but breastfed babies are sick less than bottle fed.

So long as you don't stop cold turkey there is no pain involved. I cut out one feeding at a time for a week so that I produced less milk. So by the time I cut out the last feeding I was barely producing, no pain. :)

I can not believe you are surrounded by such negative ill-informed people! Good for you for wanting to breastfeed!! BF babies get sick LESS not more than bottle fed babies because you are passing along your own immunities as well as lots of good stuff that formula can't mimic. Breastfeeding should come easy for you as long as the baby attaches properly. The nurses at the hospital can help you with positions and things. YES, you will lose weight very fast and the only time you have pain is if you are going full on breastfeeding and then you stop abruptly. I breastfed my son for a long time and the weaning was so gradual neither of us really noticed it. See how it goes and you can tell those people to go educate themselves about the truth of breastfeeding before they start advising you.

I'm not a "crazy person" re this issue, but breastmilk is best for the baby. Formula companies work as hard as possible to get the nutrition as CLOSE to breastmilk as they can, but it's not breastmilk. BF babies tend to NOT be as sick because of the antibodies they get through the breastmilk.

If you have ANY challenges, or even just to help prepare for breastfeeding, get a referral to lactation consultants in your area - they can be a HUGE help if you're having trouble (I did due to an illness just after I had my son, and with help, I was able to breastfeed successfully and stopped when my son was 2.5 years old).

I gradually weaned - taking away the least needed nursing one at a time so there was little if no pain when I stopped. THAT was wonderful.

The world health organization recommends 2 years minimum, US says 1. Do it as long as you can, and as long as you both want to. It's great for mom and baby (endorphins and comfort for you, nutrition and comfort for baby). Enjoy!

Breastfeeding is best, but it isn't for everyone. We opted not to for a number of reasons:
1. I work and being the only one capable of feeding the baby at night wouldn't work (I need to have some alert days). Pumping at work wasn't an option because I'm self-employed and couldn't afford the lost productivity.

2. My husband wanted to be involved with feedings. By bottlefeeding, we could alternate nights of feeding/full night of sleep, which helped reduce sleep deprivation.

3. I'm large chested. At 32G, I exploded when the milk came in. Can't even begin to guess where I was at, but I looked like Pamela Anderson got another boob job on top of her existing one. Even my husband said, "Oh my god!" and not in a good way. It hurt like heck carrying that weight around.

4. The healthiest people in our family were formula-fed. Those who were breast-fed have asthma, severe allergies and other health concerns not seen in those formula-fed. So, the health argument just didn't factor for us. And for what it's worth, both of our kids are incredibly healthy -- rarely get colds, maybe once a year. Our son has gone for years without getting sick.

Really, in the end, it comes down to what makes sense in your unique situation. For us, it just didn't make sense to breastfeed, while for others it really does. There is no right or wrong here. Several years from now, this will be a non-issue for you. No one cares how you fed your child as a baby.

I think people have it backwards. It's bottle fed babies that are sick more often. I've never heard anyone say that breastfed babies are sick more often. Breastmilk is hands down, scientifically proven to be a healthier way to feed your baby. Your breastmilk has stem cells (aids in further growing your baby) and white blood cells in it to help pass along immunities as well as help your baby fight off illnesses. Breast milk is definitely the PERFECT food for your baby.

Boobs are pretty awesome. When your baby is sick, if they are nursing, your boobs will identify the illness in the baby from the baby's saliva and will work on creating antibiotics and white blood cells to put in the milk for the baby, helping them fight off the illness. Babies do not have fully developed immune systems, so this is very important.

I'm not saying formula is of the devil. I feel quite opposite. I think it's a wonderful creation for babies who can't breastfeed or for whatever reason breastmilk is not an option. It's life saving in those instances. BUT when compared to breastmilk, there's truly not a question. It is scientifically proven that breastmilk is by far superior.

Just so you know, my baby is currently on formula. I ended up accidentally getting pregnant when she was six months old, and my supply dried right up! I was devastated. I tried and tried to get my supply up, but I couldn't. My body had switched to making the new baby and not focused on the milk anymore. My baby was crying and hungry and not peeing much, and I knew I had to give her formula. I tried to keep nursing her, for whatever milk I could get her to take, but she refused because it frustrated her. So sad! I've had three other babies and nursed them until they were well over one year old. But, I'm grateful that formula is there since I can't provide that for my baby right now. But I know that breastmilk is definitely best.

Anyway, breastfeeding does help you lose weight (you have to make sure you aren't eating so much extra that it doesn't let you burn extra calories like some of my friends do!). And when you are done breastfeeding, there's absolutely no reason for it to be horribly painful when you are done nursing. Do it slowly. Let the baby wean over a few weeks, and your body adjusts as you go along. It's definitely not painful unless you stop cold turkey, which isn't a good idea. And, look up how long is healthy to breastfeed your baby. AT LEAST a year is best. But the World Health Organization says at least two years. Any amount you can do is great, though.

Anyway, does that help a little bit? If you want to know which is healthiest, breastmilk for sure. That's not even arguable. But people have different situations and can't always choose breastmilk...or they simply don't want to breastfeed. It's a choice. My first took eight weeks to finally nurse...and 5-6 different lactation consultants. She'd had open heart surgery and an inner mouth cleft which caused a lot of issues. So, it can be a challenge. But for me it was worth every drop of effort. I can't wait until I have milk again and can start giving current baby breastmilk again (not sure if she'll go back to nursing, but I'll pump if i have to).

Good luck!

What's best is what works best for you AND the baby! Some babies don't latch, some mom's don't produce enough, some babies are sensitivities to food including different forumulas...it's all a guessing game before the baby even gets here let alone each individual baby! I nursed (including bottles w/pumped milk) my first until about a year (at about 10 months a bottle or two a day formula) and she weaned fairly easy. This one nursed and quit taking bottles of milk at about 8 months and she has been horrible trying to wean the night feedings! I didn't have a problem with drying up with the first, but we gradually wean so might make a difference?

People say you get a lot of judgement for bottle feeding but I found a lot of judgment for nursing... a lot of questions when I was barely back to work "how long are you going to do THAT?" or "how can you stand that?". No one I know that has formula fed has said they have gotten grief over it.

It's really all personal choices and what your body and your baby are able to do and comfortable to do!

Actually, breastfed kids tend to get sick LESS. Breastfeeding provides your baby with everything they need. Formula will get the job done, but is not superior to breastfeeding. If you can't or don't want to breastfeed, formula is perfectly fine (as long as your child doesn't have any allergies or sensitivities). But if you are wanting to breastfeed, that's the best option for babies. It can be hard getting used to it, but it's totally worth it. And when it's time to wean, do it one feeding at a time, and there should be no pain or problems. Usually the only time there's problems with stopping breastfeeding is when the mom has to stop all nursing at once. I had some rough patches learning with my first, but I wouldn't have traded it for anything. I loved nursing my 3 babies. Good luck!

I can only speeak on my experience, breast feeding was wonderful for me. I had no pain, except for when we had latch issues (a good Lactation Consultant will fix that). When I dried up no issues, no pain. I am small chested and actually did have issues making enough milk personally so we had to supplement. My sister tried to nurse but her breasts were too large for her kids (all 3) to actually latch so really I would educate yourself and be prepaired for either method.

I did both and it went well (and I too am rather large chested). I exclusively breast fed for the first 4 months, then slowly started replacing one breast milk with a formula. By the time my son was 9 months old, he was exclusively formula fed. He is now just over 1 year old and has never had any illness rather than a runny nose here and there, but he goes to daycare full time during the week so that is typical. Do what you feel comfortable with.

Give it a try! You can always change your mind and switch to a bottle. It was easy for me with all 3 kids, but I eventually dried up by 7 months. There are a lot of benefits if you can do it even for a few weeks or months. However, if it doesn't work it's NOT the end of the world!

First off, as far as I know, you will have to go through the discomfort of drying up whether you breastfeed or not. I know my family members who did not BF complained of this discomfort. Breastfeeding is definitely not for the faint of heart, it does hurt at the beginning and it is frustrating and exhausting, BUT it is also one of the most wonderful things I have ever experienced. I have never heard of BF babies getting sick more often, quite the opposite, in fact. It is a very personal choice, I know many women just aren't comfortable with the idea of their breasts NOT being sexual objects, and that is their thing. I'm more of a naturalist, so obviously wanted to go the more natural way.

All of my kids did get formula at some point, my body just couldn't keep up with them growing so much, and I wasn't providing enough calories, but I'd still do it again!

Actually it's the other way around. Children who are breastfed are sick less often than formula fed babies, statistically speaking anyway. There's anecdotal evidence that will always go against WHO (worldwide) and AAP (national) statistics of course but it's true. You give all of your antibodies to your children and they have a lower risk of seasonal allergies as well.

I didn't lose a single pound while breastfeeding. I actually gained weight while breastfeeding. I got my period right away as well, full force, regularly on the dot every month until I got the Mirena. I couldn't pump because, well, pumping wasn't efficient for me and I had a very low milk supply no matter what I did.

Anyway, it's worth the shot. It will save you hundreds of dollars.

Breast feeding is for sure better for you and your baby.

I breast fed my son for 9 months and he didn't get a single cold the whole time. They say it helps them not have allergies later in life too.

Breast feeding is good for the mother too because they say breast feeding lowers your chance of getting breast cancer by a lot. I lost all 40 lbs I gained in just 3 months while breast feeding. Plus it's a great bonding experience with your child.

I say go for it! They say 1 day of breastfeeding is better than none.

Feed the baby which ever way works best for you! If you want to try breastfeeding...try it and see, if it works for you great. If it doesn't work for you give that baby formula and be happy we live in a day and time where you have to option.

I was going to give BFing about 2 days and see how we went...but after all the horror stories, I had formula and bottles on hand and ready to go. If anything on me cracked and/or bled...it was formula all the way baby. My son had a great latch...he jumped on and I never had any issues with BF... it just happened that way.

So do what works best for you and your baby!!

Whomever told you bottle fed kids are sick LESS is lying. That is simply not true. I tried to nurse my first and after 4 months it didn't work out -- never latched well. She was on formula and ended up allergic to milk, peanuts, eggs, and fish and had a horrible bacterial ear infection that landed her with ear tubes at 9 mos. Fast forward to my son (17 mos younger than her) -- I nursed him a year - no allergies, barely any sicknesses (minor colds, same as all kids in daycare -- that's it). You do not have any PAIN drying up after nursing IF you do it the right way -- the right way is to drop one feeding at a time over a period of days so that you end your nursing relationship over about a month, NOT COLD TURKEY. And non-nursing moms go through a LOT of pain to dry up because they still get the milk coming in even though they decide not to nurse -- I would rather take the gradual process over that kind of pain any day. Good luck with whatever you decide but I would definitely check your facts rather than listening to what "people" tell you. Breastfed children have been shown to have higher IQs, less incidence of obesity, less illnesses and less serious illnesses, and less allergies. As an aside-- my own mom was young (19) when she had me and had ZERO desire to breastfeed. My IQ is considered gifted, I am far from fat, but I did have horrible ear infections as a child from infant to age 2 and have BAD allergies that led to 6 years of weekly allergy shots. To each their own but I am going to do everything I can to help ensure my kids have the best shot possible!

I breastfed my daughter exclusively until 6 months, and did not introduce cow milk until 1 year. She is now 16 months and still breastfeeds. She has been in daycare since she was two months old and she has only been sick twice in her life.

I breastfed my son exclusively until 6 months, and then had to start supplementing with formula after, and stopped at 12 months. After six months, it seemed like he was sick all the time. He had ear infections and colds constantly for about 5 months.

Breastfeeding worked for me. The first week was very hard and painful, and it was crumby the first three months getting up all the time to nurse. I HATED hauling the breastpump around and washing all its parts and pumping at work BUT all that was definitely worth it. It is SO much cheaper, and I really enjoyed my time nursing my babies.

I say definitely try it - give it a couple of weeks to try it out.

I nursed all three of my babies, and I am very large chested as well. I've never heard of BF kids getting sick more, thought it was just the opposite in fact. And for me it's true, it DID help with the baby weight.

I did it because it was natural and easy. If it had been 'horribly painful' I probably would've have. I have no 'horror stories'.

The important thing is the love and bonding a mom feels while nourishing her baby (least to me). Whichever you choose that achieves this is the way to go!

Congratulations, btw!

:)

I chose to breastfeed my DD for a number of reasons.
1. It is best for your baby (your body will produce the milk that is 100% perfectly formulated to your baby)
2. It is great bonding (there is no feeling that compares and really cant be described, you just have to have done it to know what I mean)
3. Formula is crazy expensive and breastmilk is FREE
4. Supply and demand (no mixing or heating up bottles of formula)
5. I was lucky enough to get it from the start and both me and DD had no issues with it
6. I lost an insane amount of weight (I lost so much that I actually attempted (unsuccessfully) to offer my DD formula at 8 months because I was withering away and getting sick from it. I obviously dont see the excessive weight loss as a good thing but the baby weight was gone in months.)

Whatever you choose has to be the right choice for you and baby. Neither are right or wrong just different.
Good Luck with whatever choice you make and congrats on the baby

The best would be breast fed. Where did you hear that a breast fed baby is sick more? I was told it's the other way around. My son while he was BF was never sick and then all of a sudden when he was Bottle fed he got sick.
There are so many studies on how breastfed is better. I read an article a few months ago about how researcher are now trying out breastmilk to see if it can help cure cancer. BM can aslo help out the baby if he/she gets a diaper rash. It's a mom made ointment.
Breastfeeding also reduces your risks of getting cancer. So right there was my main reason for BFing. I have a family history of it, so I will try anything not to get it.
As for the pain. Yes, it can be painful if your baby doesn't latch on right. But that is why there are lactation consultants, the La Leche Leauge, and family and friends who can help you out. There is more than enough support groups to help you successful at breastfeeding.
Anothing I want to mention is the cost of formula. It is $13 for a small can of similac. My son went through 2 1/2 cans a week on average. So for a year that around $1,500. So that should be a huge consideration.

Breastfeeding is definitely better for you and your baby than formula (you can tell because every can of formula has a tag line stating how it's almost like breastmilk). I don't know anyone who has regretted breastfeeding. However, if you choose not to that doesn't make you a bad mother. Everyone is different and not everyone is comfortable with breastfeeding. I was nervous about it and I really thought I would end up formula feeding but after about a month it became much easier and more natural.

Here's what I thought was beneficial about breastfeeding
1. baby didn't have much issue with gas
2. diapers were not horribly stinky (they are now that we're on solids)
3. don't have to wash a million bottles
4. don't have to worry about having a bottle when we go out because breastmilk is always ready when you are
5. my DD has been VERY healthy since she was born-- no flu, colds, ear infections. (I think the people you're talking to are mixed up. Breastfed babies have less issues with being sick. However, if your baby is going to be in any kind of childcare then he/she is going to get sick regardless.)
6. Lost 30 lbs before my baby was 2 weeks old (I gained 50lbs). I'm about 5 lbs away from pre-pregnancy weight now.

Here is what has been a pain about breastfeeding
1. engorged breasts (especially in the morning)
2. have to choose clothing that is breastfeeding friendly
3. I pump at night so I'm not so engorged in the morning-- sometimes I just want to go to sleep and not hassle with it
4. I have to be cautious about medications
5. I watch my caffeine intake (I'd love to drink 10 cokes a day but I only have one)

We used formula for three days because I had to pump and dump while taking a steroid shot for poison ivy. Here's what I hated:
1. baby became constipated
2. STINKY diapers and STINKY gas
3. there was a recall of formula at the time (my breasts have never been recalled)
4. I missed the closeness of my baby at my breast and she kept trying to nurse when I would hold her which made me cry
5. forumla is $23 a can at Wal-Mart (where else are you going to find it any cheaper???)

Here's what was beneficial about formula
1. husband could feed her

I breast fed both of my kids until they were around 12-13 months and it was wonderful. It was stressful and frustrating with my first because I had never done it before, but once I got the hand of it and kept at it and it was easy. I cherished the bond that I had with my babies while breastfeeding and I was the one that had trouble weaning them, not my kids. Those 3 am feedings were nice too since all I had to do was put my crying baby to my breast instead of wasting time making a bottle. I've actually always heard that breastfed kids get sick less than formula fed. I do believe that breast milk is best for babies because everything that breast milk has to offer cannot be duplicated in a lab. However, I do not look down on formula feeding. I was formula fed and have been extremely healthy all my life and most kids I know are formula fed and they too are healthy. You just need to do what works best for you. Some women try breast feeding and just don't like it for one reason or another. Your baby will be fine no matter what you choose. Adjusting to a new baby is stressful enough to get yourself worked up over which way to feed your baby.

As far as "drying up" being painful. I never had much of an issue, however, I weaned my kids when I was only nursing them once or twice a day because they were eating solid foods. If you gradually reduce feedings as your baby grows and doesn't need as much, it shouldn't be so painful when you decide to stop since your body is making that much milk. If you decide a month after your baby is born to stop nursing, then it might be painful because your body is making SOOO much milk. I found that the best thing to relieve pressure is to release a L. bit of milk to take down the pressure but not completely empty the breast. It only takes a few days for your body to recognize that it doesn't need to make milk anymore.

Good luck to you and your new baby!

SOOO many responses, but I just wanted to say that if YOU want to try it, do so. Yes, it is best for baby. BUT it doesn't work for everyone, and thats OK!! I tried w/ my last two, sooooo hard. And no matter what I did, it just didnt work. And they are both perfectly healthy happy kids.

My best advice to you is research,research! So you can avoid the "horrors" of weaning. Be prepared, for any situation that may arise and you'll do better. Some women have no problems at all and truly enjoy and cherish it. but not everyone is that fortunate. I was not, but its ok. Give it a shot, you seem open to it. But if it doesnt work out, bottle feed. Your baby will be just fine. And don't let ANYONE bully you, or guilt you into something that isnt working for you and your baby. Good luck, and congrats :)

I'm a breastfeeding Momma, so consider me biased before I even post my response... I nursed my oldest son for 14.5 months, exclusively from the breast. He never once took a bottle. The bonding was amazing, and I never had to worry about "weaning" him to a sippy cup. He transitioned wonderfully.

The people who have informed you that breastfed children are sick more often, are inaccurate. There have been many research studies on this, and breastfed infants have a better immune system than formula fed infants because they are receiving antibodies from their mother's milk.

Breastfeeding WILL help you heal from labor & delivery faster, and it also burns a lot of calories, so it will also help you lose your baby weight. Breastfeeding is natural, inexpensive, and best for baby. I hope that you at least give it a try, before deciding to formula feed.

I understand that many women formula feed, and respect their decision to do what is best for their baby. However, do the research yourself - and you will find that the benefits to breastfeeding far outweigh those of formula. I'm 35 weeks pregnant with my second baby, and I'm definitely breastfeeding again. Sure, I have a 2-year-old that requires a lot of attention - but that doesn't mean I'm not going to nurse my second baby. Breastfeeding can be challenging, but it is TRULY worth it. Best of luck!

It also depends you. I tried to bf my first, but it didn't work. I was uncomfortable, baby was ALWAYS hungry. I became depressed, wasn't sleeping, didn't know what day it was.

We had to suppliment with formula due to baby having low iron. So after 3w I told hubby I was switching to formula full time, here's a bottle, I'm taking a nap!. He said 'fine, whatever makes you normal again'.
So I knew for the 2nd that it was bottles all the way.

As for the 'debate'. My 1st has more health issues like allergies than my 2nd, but my 2nd does have a few issues. My younger brother (4th) is a ton healthier than us first 3, 2 of with were bottle fed. So I think alot of it has to do with birth order. The first born is going to have more health issues than youngers.

M.

I think it's actually breast-feeding that provides more immunities than bottle-fed babies. I wanted to breast-feed, but my milk never fully came in, and I had to supplement with formula. It was the biggest disappointment of my life, and if I could change things, I would! If you have the chance, DO IT. Formula is fine for babies (mine lives on it, and he's great) but breast feeding just can't be replaced. But it's a personal decision, and you should make it based on what's best for you and your baby. It does require more feedings and more discomfort than bottle feeding. It also requires a lot of maintenance as far as your diet goes, not to mention pumping. But like I said, it's certainly worth it. There is no greater bonding experience when the baby is first born.

I am a huge breast feeding advocate, but it is not my choice for others to make. It can be incredibly easy for some, and painfully hard for others, and depends on the person, your goals for after tha baby comes, etc. There is allot of support for it.

I breast fed for 16 long months. Loved and hated it. I could never imagine not doing it. I faced cristism everytime I turned around. Grew a back bone, was a human pacifier. I fed on demand, no bottle ever. Whew exhausted yet. Really for some like me it just came natural and I dealt with the highs and lows of it with pretty good grace. I would do it all over again in a heart beat. Before I got pregnat I would have never consider breast feeding, as soon as I was it seemed that was the only thing for me.

What ever you choose, your best bet is listen to you gut, and just do it with love and patience. Good luck and congratulations.

Well, nutritionally breastfeeding is obviously best. I've never heard of breastfeed babies being more sickly, actually the opposite. My son was formula fed (I had tried breastfeeding and it just didn't work) and he's always pretty healthy. Although, I can say the same with my daughters who were both breastfed, one was weaned at 6 months and the other breastfed for 22 months! As far as the drying up part, that's going to have to happen either way but with my son who wasn't breastfed it was awful, I remember saying it was worse than labor, it was just really painful. With my girls it wasn't so bad because they were weaned off slowly. Can't help with with the huge boob issue because mine aren't at all, LOL Good luck!

You've got lots of opinions below. I breastfeed both my kids (one exclusively and one I supplemented with formula). I didn't have problems with going through the drying up phase. I weaned gradually until I was only nursing 2-3 times a day and then stopped. I had a few twinges of discomfort and that was it. It could also be because I nursed until 16 months for my first and 22 months for my second. I figure you can give it a try and see how it works for you and your baby and then make up your mind (it's easier to try the breastfeeding first and then switch to formula or a combination if you don't like breastfeeding than the other way around). Best wishes.

I breastfed for 21 months with my daughter... although she was only 100% exclusively breastfed for 6 months. After that she had some solid foods. I never had problems with pain after weaning because we weaned VERY gradually.

My daughter never got sick, not once... until we were down to one feeding per day. Her whole first year she never had a cold, an ear infection- nothing. I do think that had a lot to do with her being breastfed and receiving my antibodies... of course there were other factors that played in.. like the fact that she doesn't go to daycare (less exposure to sick kids).

Whether you breastfeed or not, you will probably experience engorgement... which can be really uncomfortable or painful. When your milk "comes in" your breasts can feel hard, hot and swollen... and the best relief is to express breast milk (by nursing or pumping). Nursing will make you continue to produce milk... and over a week or so engorgement usually lessens and breastfeeding starts to go more smoothly. I have heard that engorgement is harder for women who choose to formula feed at birth- because you don't have the relief of nursing. Quitting cold turkey can also cause engorgement later on... which is why I think gradual weaning is better in most cases.

Formula feeding is not "bad" for your baby though. Heck, my mom formula fed me I am a generally healthy, happy adult. If you have the option to breastfeed, even for a few weeks- I really think you ought to give it a serious try! It IS the ideal food for baby, and it IS free! Formula runs a close second nutritionally... but why not shoot for the best if you can? You are not a "failure" or a "bad mom" in anyway if breastfeeding turns out to not be the right choice for you and for baby. Formula is synthetic breast milk- plain and simple. So don't fret if that is what you end up feeding baby.

With my freinds I always tell the to do this- try to breastfeed for the first two weeks. Don't buy formula or bottles unless your doctor tells you to switch over (for baby's health). In that time, it may be pretty hard as you are learning how to breastfeed, and baby is learning how to eat! Don't be afraid to ask for help, and ask again if you need to! Call friends, consultants, relatives- or even go on youtube for help! If after 2 weeks this is totally NOT for you, go ahead and use the bottle! You have given it a real try and it didn't work out- so no one can blame you. Almost everyone I have known who gave it two weeks came out breastfeeding like champs!

As far as how long they breastfed... that depends on the mom and the baby. Some people go for 6 months, some stick it out for a year, some people go for 2, 3, or even 4 years. My original goal was 1 year, and then I moved it to age 2.... but due to my current pregnancy I weaned a little earlier than planned. The point is... do whatever works for you- be it 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 6 months, 4 years. I probably wont ever go for THAT long myself... but I respect that kind of dedication! And if you are ever worried about "what people will think"- know that NO MATTER what you do someone will criticize you- in any aspect of parenting!

Good Luck!
-M.

PS: After reading a few responses I want to add some points. My daughter comes from a family where most of the babies had bad "colic" and constipation... I do think that breastfeeding helped- along with swaddling. That said - today's formula is leaps and bound better than the formula from 20 years ago! As one poster mentioned, breastfeeding CAN be expensive if you go crazy with breastfeeding "gear"- I only spent $100 on a gently used pump from ebay, and received bottles as gifts. I used blankets or my sling as a nursing cover... but admittedly I spent maybe $200 on nursing bras and tops... They doubled as maternity wear for me... but the point is that you could go overboard, and technically you dont "need" expensive things to breastfeed! Last- some people say that breastfeeding did or did not help them lose weight... For me it was like a miracle diet! I lost my weight gain from pregnancy within a month, and at 1 year I had lost an additional 25 pounds- yippee! BUT- weight loss boils down to burning more calories than you take in and use... if you take in more than you need- obviously you wont lose weight. Unfortunately you really cannot starve yourself and breastfeed successfully at the same time... so dieting while bfing is a careful balancing act. If you are not bfing- you can starve yourself as much as you want (maybe not healthy though).

Don't be too pressured to BF. Try to get to 6 weeks if you can. happy baby happy mom.

What's best for baby is to be fed. My first kids were bottle fed breast milk and formula. They could not latch on and I could not produce enough milk for all 3. I stopped pumping when they were 9 months old. They got their first cold at 18 months. My 3 yr old mostly got breastmilk but later we did have to give formula, though we only ever had to buy 1 can. I have a friend that could not breastfeed so her kids only got formula and only one of them was always sick (5 kids so pretty good record). Also, for the drying up phase, I had no problem either time. A friend of mine that stopped at 1 yr had a little leaking but no problems and a woman I used to work with did get engorged when she stopped. she did not wean off, stopped cold turkey. maybe that's the key. I don't know but just like everything else, everyone is different. Make the decision based on what you want to do.

My recommendation, try to breast feed, especially in the beginning. If that fails you can always pump and "bottle-feed" that way. Breast-feed kids are sick less as they get thier immunities from you. Niether of my kids got sick until they were introduced to pink eye. They tend to also be leaner/less body fat then a bottle feed kid. You can lose more weight as you will be giving between 3-500 calories out to your baby. While bottle feeding is easier, I personnelly have found that I can mix the two. When the child is at daycare, she gets a bottle of breast milk and i pump at work. when she is at home she gets it from me. I am also larger in the breast, barely fitting in to a D, so yes i understand that plight but it makes it easier to use different positions for brestfeeding. In the weaning process I simply lowered the amount that I feed the child from me, and my body slowly produced less. The gorging hurt worse then when i stopped, but the let down always made me feel way better. Every hospital has a person that can help you with this after you have delived. Simply ask your nurse. If you choose not to breast feed and only bottle feed, the doctors can give you a pill to dry you up. The choice is yours, but for me, there was no subsitute to what i could give my child. Besides its cheaper, most times easier, and it allows, what I feel is a better bonding time between you and the child that no one can replace.

Obviously breast milk is better all the way around. Breast milk keeps baby healthier, more nurtured, more opportunities for bonding, and is wayyyy cheaper

Its really about what fits the family style the best. There are a few reasons that a family would be well advised to try formula feeding. Like an illness or allergy, or a mother who has to be the sole bread-winner of the household.

But of course it is preferable most of the time, (for all people involved) if the baby takes to the breast for at least 6 months.

Try to breastfeed especially the first few weeks but it doesn't work for everyone for different reasons. If you do try to breastfeed I strongly recommend a breastfeeding class offered at hospitals. It's not as easy as it looks. Also think about pumping or supplementing with formula at night so dad can take a feeding and you can sleep through one feeding. It will make a big difference in feeling better if you can get 6 hours of sleep at night. Formula is very expensive but either way you baby will be fine. I have not heard any convincing evidence about more sickness with breast vs. bottle fed children. When you are stopping breastfeeding their are ways to cut back slowly so it is less painful.

Nurse baby directly on breast for 3 months then switched to expressing milk to bottle feed so husband could help out, plus it helped to store additional breastmilk in fridge and to keep supply up once she started first foods. However, I continued to express milk until she was 13 months then switched to regular milk.

Drying up was a week of painful breasts, kept putting on crushed/frozen cabbage leaves and tylenol. No matter how much it hurts and it does, don't give into expressing to relieve the pressure or else you start all over again.

You have to do what is easiest for you : )

I disagree. My oldest boy had special needs and could not nurse. So I pumped and fed him with a bottle. He had more ear infections and was much sicker than my other two who nursed. If you do not want to nurse, you can always pump and the child would still get the benefit of the breastmilk. I just suggest that you wait until the baby is born and see what you are comfortable with. Breastfeeding is not instantaneous. It takes some practice and patience. I had more pain with the pumping than I did with the breastfeeding. The drying up period was not painful for me. If you gradually wean them off then it is less painful for you. For me, I had no pain. For example, if you feed them 5 times a day, feed them 4 times a day for a few days, then reduce to 3 times for a few days and then after a few weeks, your body will no longer make milk and will gradually reduce the milk production. I hope that helps. Remember, breastfeeding is not for everyone. So do not let anyone tell you otherwise. Good luck!
-H. B.

I breast-fed 3 children. If you nurse them until they would naturally not need breast-milk, it is not painful. Your body slowly stops making milk as they slowly start eating more solid food. It is trying to dry up early or cold-turkey that can be painful. But, if you have a baby and don't breast feed at all, you still have to dry up! So, I vote for the natural way. Plus, numerous studies show there is nothing as good as breast milk for your baby. The benefits shown go all the way to age 2, at least. Plus, somewhere around 14 months of breast-feeding, your body releases a hormone that helps you not gain weight back when you stop nursing. Set yourself a goal and see if you and baby can make it. Then I'd suggest slowly cutting out feeding times until you are done. Cold-turkey is hard for you and the baby. Also, DONT LET OTHERS DISCOURAGE YOU. It's your choice. If you have trouble in the beginning, ask for help. Many obstacles to breast-feeding can be easily remedied with the help of a lactation consultant. It WILL take a month or so to get into a groove, and after that, it's so easy! Not to mention convenient, inexpensive, and healthy. There are even studies that show breast-feeding reduces the risk of breast cancer, makes babies smarter, and actually gives them some of your immunities against illnesses. Seems to me that bottle-fed babies are sicker, as cow's milk, however broken down in the formula, can lead to babies being more prone to allergies, ear infections and eczema. I don't know any studies that would support the idea that breast fed kids are more prone to sickness. Every ounce of breast milk you can give your child is worth it. Please feel free to ask me any questions!

I am large chested also. But I also dont produce very well. My oldest I tried for 3 weeks and it didnt work. i didnt even try with my daughter. but with # 3 i decided to try again. i had to put him on formula after a month. it was a little painful, but if you put cabbage on your breasts it helps.

I actually stopped breastfeeding cold turkey with a 13 month old and it was uncomfortable, not horribly painful. Both my breast fed babies slept much better than my formula fed baby. I've NEVER heard anything about breast fed babies being sick more, I though it was the opposite.

Whichever you decide, I will tell you this from personal experience: if you breastfeed, and this is your first baby, do NOT go it alone! When I had my baby, I thought, how hard can it be, women nurse all the time. Was I ever wrong! I got blisters plus a scorching case of mastitis - both of which could have been avoided if I had not been so macho about the whole thing. Make an appointment with a lactation consultant either through La Leche- plenty of volunteer moms there who are all too happy to help you -- or your hospital.

You already have so many great answers! Just a couple things to remember: It does hurt at first (no more than 2 days for me) but the pain does go away. It helps to have a breast pump handy! Before leaving the hospital, make good use of the lactation consultant, that is what they are there for! Buy a nursing pillow. If you nurse long enough and you gradually stop the nursing process it should not hurt when you stop nursing.

1st child I nursed 6 1/2 months, 2nd child nursed for 1 year (refused bottle)

Here's what I did... I tried breastfeeding because I knew it would be best for the baby, and cheaper for us. But shortly after we got home, I started pumping after each feeding so my husband, the night owl, could take a late night feeding, and I could get some sleep. It worked out great for us! I managed to keep pumping and breastfeeding at night even after I went back to work, and my daughter was only on formula for a few months before she turned a year old. "Drying up" didn't hurt because I did it gradually over time. We just cut out one feeding at a time until she was exclusively on a bottle (of either stored breast milk, or formula). I have heard that if you don't breast feed at all and try to dry up as soon as you have the baby, it is somewhat painful.

My suggestion is to at least try breastfeeding for 2 weeks. If you can make it that long, then shoot for a month. Then 2 months. If you have to stop, then stop, but give yourself short goals to reach and it'll be easier than starting off shooting for a year of breastfeeding and failing after 3 weeks.

P.S. - Breastfeeding HURTS at first. Make sure you ask lots of questions in the hospital. Visit with a lactation consultant if she's available. It's much easier if you know going into it that it will be tough at times, but I promise it gets easier.

P.P.S. - If your child is going to daycare, it will get sick a lot no matter how they are fed!

You will know when your baby gets here as to what is best. I thought for sure that I would breastfeed mine, but turned out neither of my kids would latch on (despite trips to the lactation consultant, etc). So I pumped and supplemented with formula and then they got formula exclusively after about 5 mos. Mine aren't any more sick than anyone elses. I think wellness depends on if they go to daycare or not, where germs are rampant. My advice would be to breastfeed if you can for as long as you can, but don't fear formula if you need it. But breastfeeding is healthier, esp the first few weeks when the colostrum is in there. It is such a personal issue, no one here can really tell you what to do, it will become clear as time goes on.

Absolutely it's been scientifically proven that the best thing physically for baby - and mother is breastfeeding. Breastfeeding babies are healthier and have fewer illnesses...That said, it's not always the right thing for you emotionally. It's hard work and doesn't feel very "natural" in the beginning. And bottle fed babies are perfectly fine. I read a study when I was pregnant with my first that breast feeding for 72 days significantly lowered seasonal allergy suffering in children that were breast fed - and since my husband has bad seasonal allergies (and cat) - I told myself I'd make it work for 72 days. Well after 72 days all was great and I nursed my first for 13 months. Then I had twin girls that I nursed exclusively for 6 months and partially until they were 11 months. I never had a problem weaning.... you just drop one feeding a week-- don't go cold turkey if you stop breastfeeding! You can do it - it's all if you want to do it!

Ideally, what would you do if you didn't have to worry about drying up since both are great options for nourishing your baby?