Feeding Options for the Working Mom

Feeding is one of the most importantissues a working mother faces.  Someworking women think that formula feeding is their only option, butbreastfeeding is still very possible. This article will explore the basics of several feeding options, andhelp working mothers choose what’s best for them.

Formula Feeding

Formula feeding is one of the most commonchoices for working mothers.  It is easyand convenient.  There is no specialequipment required, other than bottles and nipples.  Breast pads will be needed until your milkdries up, usually about 3 weeks.  Onedrawback of formula feeding is the price. The powdered variety is the cheapest, but even that can cost more than$60 a month.  Despite the high price,formula feeding is still a popular and viable option.  You can even choose special formulas forissues such as spitting up, colic, and milk intolerance.

The most common type of formula ispowdered.  The powder is mixed withwater, one scoop per two ounces of water. You must follow the directions exactly. Too much or too little formula can result in nutritional deficiency orother health problems. 

Another mixable formula isconcentrate.  With most concentrates, youmix equal amounts of formula and water. They are more expensive than powdered formulas.  Again, take care to follow mixing directionsexactly.

The last type of formula is ready tofeed.  This formula requires no mixing,just pour into a bottle and you’re ready to go. Some brands also come in disposable bottles, and you just have to put ona nipple.  This is the most expensivetype.

Whatever formula you choose, make sure toget one that is iron fortified, with added DHA. These are essential to proper infant growth and development.   Once you have found the formula that worksfor you and your baby and made sure dad or the babysitter knows how to prepareit, you can rest easy knowing that your baby will be well-nourished while youare at work and home.

Breast Feeding

Many women think that they can notbreastfeed if they work outside the home. Though it may take some extra adjustments and some time to adjust,working mothers can enjoy breastfeeding success.  Breastfeeding is still considered the bestform of nourishment for your baby.  Breastmilk is free, takes no preparation, and contains the correct nutritionalbalance for your baby, along with powerful antibodies.

Working moms will need a breast pump.  There are many types of pumps available, witha large price range.  Nursing pads willbe needed to protect your shirt.  Youremployer should supply you with a quiet, private place to pump, if you do nothave your own office.  For optimal milkflow, relax and think about your baby. If you can, take a picture of him or her to look at while you pump.

Make sure you know about how much yourbaby eats during the day, so you can leave the proper amount of bottles.  It helps to leave a little extra.  Breast milk can be stored in the refrigeratorfor up to 8 days, frozen in an attached freezer for 3-4 months, or in a deepfreezer for 6 months.  Be sure to labelthe container with the date of pumping. It may take a while for your baby to be able to switch from breast to bottle.

Combination

Another option, and probably the mostcommon, is a combination of breast and bottle feeding.  Moms give breast milk while at home, eithergiving pumped milk in a bottle or breastfeeding.  When they go to work, the baby drinksformula. 

Moms who choose this option can still pumpat work, and save the bottles to feed their baby when they get home.  If you choose not to pump, eventually yourbody will not produce milk during the times you normally do not breastfeed. 

There is no right option, and a methodthat works for one family may not work for another.  Be sure to research all options available,and once you decide, do not let anyone talk you out of it.  Do what you think is best for your baby andfor your family.