Fed is Best: A Fed Baby is a Healthy Baby
by Marguerite Yoder, PsyD, HSPP
August is national breastfeeding month, which is a time to recognize the dedication and love that goes into feeding a baby. Breastfeeding can be a meaningful part of the early months and years of parenthood, but every mother and parent’s experience is different. Some parents choose to breastfeed exclusively, some combine breast milk and formula, and some choose or need to use formula from the beginning. Every family deserves compassion and support without judgement in how they choose to feed their baby. There is more than one way to nourish a baby, and a thriving baby who is well fed is what matters.
Ways to Support Breastfeeding Mothers:
Breastfeeding is not always easy. A mother may be learning how to help her baby latch, managing pumping, navigating returning to work, dealing with discomfort, or simply trying to find enough time to rest and eat.
· Listening without judgment. Ask how she is doing and what kind of support would be helpful.
· Protecting her time to feed or pump. Breastfeeding and pumping can take significant time and energy.
· Encouraging professional support. A lactation consultant, nurse, midwife, or health care provider can help with concerns about latch, milk supply, pain, or pumping.
· Avoiding pressure. Encouragement is helpful, and it will be important to not be critical of her decisions regarding how to feed her baby.
Thinking About Stopping Breastfeeding?
A mother may decide to wean because she feels ready, because breastfeeding has become physically or emotionally difficult, because of work or family circumstances, because of medical considerations, or simply because her needs and her baby's needs have changed.
There is no failure in deciding that it is time to stop. If a mother is considering weaning, she can talk with her baby's health care provider or a lactation professional about gradually reducing feeds, maintaining her comfort, and ensuring that mastitis does not occur.
Formula Feeding
Like with breastfeeding, when a parent decided to formula feed, one of the most meaningful things that can be done is to respect the decision without making the parent(s) feel that they need to defend it. Infant formula is a safe and nutritionally regulated option for babies who receive it exclusively or alongside breast milk. FDA regulated infant formulas are designed to meet infant’s nutritional needs. Additionally, speaking with the baby’s health care provider about which formula is appropriate could be helpful, especially of the baby was born prematurely, has feeding difficulties, or may need a specialized formula due to allergies or other medical conditions.
Considering Milk Donation?
Some breastfeeding mothers produce more milk than their babies need and may wish to share their milk with another family. Nonprofit milk banks accredited by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA) screen donors, test and pasteurize donated milk, and distribute it primarily to premature and medically fragile infants. Mothers interested in donating can contact a HMBANA member milk bank to learn about eligibility and screening. Screening and shipping are provided at no cost to approved donors through HMBANA member banks. The Milk Bank Indianapolis, which is located on the north side of the city, is accredited by HMBANA, and is a great local resource for those who are wanting to donate or receive donated breast milk.