Many mothers have wanted to breastfeed but have been unable to access support, thus have had to switch to formula. Some have never even seen breastfeeding and have the societal pressure to bottle feed as this is what’s ‘normal’ to them, and some are living with the trauma of trying to breastfeed but being medically unable to do so.
These are all perfectly valid reasons why someone may choose to or have to formula feed, and of course, when a choice has been made, we have to respect that choice!
After all, the majority of us do what we believe to be the best for our children, and we make that choice with the information and support we have on hand at that time!
So why do we question each other so loudly and become so incredibly defensive over how we feed our little ones?
Why are facts suddenly insults and statistics, verbal abuse? Why is it, that someone trying to breastfed is, by doing so, told she’s judging those who feed artificial milk?
Talking about the risks rather than benefits isn’t passing judgment or criticising a feeding choice! No! It offers mothers a chance to make informed decisions in regards to the milk they offer their babies!
When I gave my daughter her first bottle of formula, I was told formula was a great substitute for breastmilk! My midwife reassured me that my daughter would thrive on formula! It really is no wonder that mothers find themselves confused with such contradictory advice and information!
A health professional may say that formula is a perfectly suitable feeding choice; yet the NHS states that the low breastfeeding rates cost the country over £40 million in treatments, as a direct result of formula feeding!?
As long as we keep talking about the benefits of breastfeeding, we make it seem that other alternatives are perfectly sufficient and that breastfeeding is going the extra mile, like an organic cloth nappy in a sea of disposable pampers.
By focusing on the benefits of breastfeeding, we deny mothers the chance to have an honest dialogue in regards to the consequences of their feeding choices!
However, if we are realistic and talk about the risks of formula feeding; not to offend or upset but simply to empower mothers, then maybe we will see a change!
UNICEF 2017 – https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/advocacy/call-to-action/
Originally published here.
The Gentle Mum is a woman, simply trying to manoeuvre through motherhood with empathy and respect. Between training to become a breastfeeding peer supporter, completing her degree in Youth and Child studies and pursuing her writing hobby, she can be found on the school run, flustered whilst trying to be the best mother she can possibly be. These are her thoughts and musings on life, alongside the ups and downs of motherhood. You can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
