Nine Months : Breastfeed or Bottlefeed?

Bottle Feeding

Natural

Yes, as nature ntended

Man made, mostly based on cow's milk

Digestible

Easily digestible. Breast fed babies tend to have less stomach upsets and wind as compared to bottle fed ones.

More protein and hence takes longer to digest.

Antibodies

Yes, passed from mother to baby through the
milk

No antibodies are passed

Allergies

Babies fed on breast milk are less likely to develop asthma or eczema

No such natural allergy protection is seen
in bottle fed babies

Cost

Free

Bottles, milk powder and accessories will need to be bought

Temperature
Control

At the right temperature at any time

Milk will have to be cooled /warmed to
attain the right temperature

Sterilisation

None required

All bottles and teats will have to be thoroughly sterilised

Benefits for You

Uterus comes back to the normal size quickly.

The process of breast feeding takes up calories. Hence you will regain your original shape quicker.

Helps in bonding with your newborn

Your partner will be able to help you with feeding.

Going back to work will be easier.

Problems for You

Mastitis may be a problem specially for first time mothers.

Tender breasts and sore nipples.

Change in shape of the breasts after prolonged feeding.

Some women feel awkward in having to offer the breast all the time on the supply and demand principle.

Although you can express milk in bottles, going back to work while feeding may be slightly more inconvenient.

You may feel guilty about not feeding your little one. Once you take the decision of not breast feeding, there is no turning back.

Your uterus will take longer to return to normal.