Motherhood is often a well-planned decision for American women because most of them want to be ready for the experience. Balancing parenting with career goals is the main reason women want to time things according to their expectations. According to 2022 statistics, the labor force participation rate for women was an incredible 56.8%. Surveys also show that more young American moms are working than ever.
As a new mom or a woman planning motherhood, you may struggle to choose between breastfeeding and formula feeding. Exclusive breastfeeding is not an option for women looking to rejoin the workforce soon after giving birth. Conversely, formula feeding comes with apprehensions, despite being a convenient and widely-used option.
Being aware of the downsides of baby formula is essential for moms seeking the best nutrition for their little ones. It is about making an informed decision instead of choosing your career over your baby’s well-being without thinking twice.
In this article, we will explain why baby formula may not be the best choice for working moms seeking the right nutrition for their babies.
Nutritional Disparities
Breast Milk is better than formula when it comes to nutritional value. Studies of breastfed babies show that they perform better on intelligence tests because breast milk abounds in nutrients that enhance brain growth and nervous system development in infants. The sugar (carbohydrate) and protein in it are absorbed better by babies. Further, it has disease-fighting factors that prevent infections in babies.
While baby formula manufacturers strive to mimic the nutritional content of breast milk, replicating its unique composition is impossible. Breast milk is tailored to an infant’s specific needs, adjusting its composition as the baby grows. The baby formula may lack elements for optimal development, depriving infants of crucial nutrients for early development.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) Risk
If your baby is preterm, formula feeding can elevate the risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis. According to consumernotice.org, studies show that cow’s milk baby formula can have the worst effects on the delicate intestines of a premature baby. NEC is a serious condition that causes inflammation and damage to intestinal tissue. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
The recent NEC lawsuit underscores the risk for formula-fed infants and the importance of awareness among working mothers opting for formula feeding. According to the latest NEC lawsuit update, the total number of pending cases in the NEC multidistrict litigation is 290. The number shows that breast milk is a better choice for working mothers with premature babies.
TorHoerman Law notes that parents can bring an NEC compensation claim against formula manufacturers if their baby has suffered harm due to the product. Manufacturers are responsible because of the failure to mention the risk to consumers. They should be legally bound to compensate the families suffering due to their failure to perform the duty of care.
Economic Considerations
Money can be another factor that makes formula milk a bad choice for working mothers. The shortage of baby formula in the US has escalated its costs. In 2019, American parents spent 9 to 32 cents per ounce on baby formula. The price soared to a range of 54 cents to $1.15 per ounce in 2022, showing a significant increase.
Besides the cost of the product, the financial burden of formula feeding extends to bottles and sterilization equipment. Since formula-fed infants are more prone to infections, medical costs can add to the overall burden. Breastfeeding is a natural and cost-effective option that alleviates these economic pressures.
Lack of Bonding
According to the CDC, 84% of babies in the US are breastfed at birth. The numbers decrease gradually, dropping to 50% by three months and 25% by six months. Most of the women who quit exclusive breastfeeding or leave it altogether are working and do not have a choice. Unfortunately, they miss out on the deep emotional connection that happens naturally with breastfeeding.
Research shows that the act of breastfeeding stimulates the release of prolactin, oxytocin, and other metabolites. These natural chemicals reduce physiological stress and enhance mother-child bonding. Working moms can retain this bonding by optimizing breastfeeding sessions during the limited time spent with their infants.
Avoid formula feeding as it lacks the intimacy and emotional connection that connects you with your baby. Besides nurturing your connection, breastfeeding also enhances the child’s emotional development in the long run.
Health Impacts on the Mother
Another valid reason for working mothers to prioritize breastfeeding is that it is good for their health. CDC notes that breastfeeding can lower a woman’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. It also reduces postpartum bleeding and accelerates postpartum weight loss for new mothers.
The best part is that breastfeeding is convenient and stress-free as you can feed your baby anytime and anywhere, without worrying about warming the milk or sterilizing the bottle. You can express your breast milk and ensure that your baby’s caregiver feeds her while you are at work. Opting for baby formula may deprive you of these health advantages in the long run.
Environmental Impact
You may have another good reason to opt for breastfeeding instead of baby formula if you are an eco-conscious person. Like any product, the production, packaging, and distribution of baby formula may have a significant environmental impact.
The manufacturing process often entails resource-intensive practices, while the packaging may generate waste. Breastfeeding is an eco-friendly option as it is natural. Choosing it over formula is a sustainable choice, aligning with environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, baby formula may seem like a feasible choice for working mothers who cannot breastfeed due to their professional obligations. However, it may not be the best option, considering the lack of nutritional content and the potential health risks it may entail. As a working mother, you should make an informed choice, whether by seeking a longer maternity leave, considering work-from-home roles, or looking for other options. You should be comfortable with the choice, and it happens only when you are confident about the well-being of your infant.
