Breastfeeding vs. Formula: Benefits, Challenges, and How to Choose What’s Best for You and Your Baby
Need to Know
Issue No. 6: Food, Nutrition, and Access in Our Communities
Words - Ashley Hannan, BSN, RN, RNC-OB, C-EFM & Diana McDonnell, FNP
llustration - Alexandra Folino
Breastfeeding is natural and has countless health benefits for parents and babies. Despite this, there are many reasons why parents struggle with breastfeeding and end up switching to formula. With the right support, it can be possible for most people to produce sufficient food for their baby. Whichever option you choose, remember that all parents and babies can benefit from bonding during skin-to-skin time!
What are the benefits of breastfeeding/chestfeeding?
The benefits of breastfeeding/chestfeeding for the parent include a reduced risk of:
Asthma
Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Ear and respiratory infections
High blood pressure
Certain cancers
Breasting/chestfeeding also reduces the risk of Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) for the baby.
How does breastfeeding/chestfeeding work?
During your pregnancy, your breasts/chest will make colostrum, a thick, sticky liquid. Your baby only needs about 1 teaspoon per feed during their first few days. Within a week, the colostrum will switch to milk to match the changing needs of your baby.
If you are worried your baby isn’t eating enough, keep track of how many dirty diapers they produce daily. 6+ poopy diapers a day is common after the first week.
How long should I breastfeed?
Breast/chestfeeding is recommended up to two years or beyond, alongside solids such as baby purees, or age-appropriate table food.
How many extra calories do you need while breastfeeding?
A lactating person requires approximately 500 more calories per day than they were eating pre-pregnancy. WIC has packages available to support this additional need specifically for those who are breastfedding/chestfeeding.
What should you avoid while breastfeeding?
Parents should limit their consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and potential allergens or irritants while breastfeeding because they can be passed to the child through their milk.
What are alternatives if breastfeeding isn’t possible?
Pumping and/or donor milk banks may also be options for parents who want the health benefits of human milk but are struggling with breastfeeding or chestfeeding.
What are the benefits of formula feeding?
Formula can be a more convenient option for working parents, or situations in which the baby is often fed by other caregivers. Formula can also be used in combination with breastfeeding or chestfeeding, and it can be helpful to have on hand for instances when you’re temporarily unable to breastfeed or chestfeed.
How much does formula feeding cost on average?
Formula feeding requires the purchase of formula but isn’t quite expensive as you might expect compared to breastfeeding. According to a 2023 Yale study, a year of breastfeeding costs families as much as $11,000 when you consider the cost of increased food intake by the nursing mother, supplies, vitamin supplementation, and time dedicated to pumping or feeding. In comparison, a year’s supply of formula may cost as much as $2,500.
How do you safely prepare and store powdered infant formula?
Always follow the instructions on the package or specific steps given by your health care provider. When preparing and storing powdered infant formula, be sure that the formula remains germ-free by keeping it properly sealed, out of direct sunlight, and at the recommended temperature. Check regularly for formula recalls.
How do I know which formula to choose?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends choosing an iron-fortified, cow milk-based formula. Soy and hypoallergenic options are available, but should be reserved for babies with diagnosed allergies or intolerances.
Additional support for breast, chest, and formula feeding parents:
If you’re concerned about your baby's feeding schedule, weight loss or gain, painful latch, or their milk supply should reach out to a lactation professional. They can be found through hospitals, community-based programs, and WIC peer counselors.
For more breastfeeding/chestfeeding tips and support, text “MILK” to 877877 or visit wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov and www.llli.org.
Also see articles from Womanly Magazine Issue No. 4: Black Maternal Health: Economics of Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Infancy, Breastfeeding and You, and 90% Determination, 10% Milk Production.
