Either way, you are the best mom your baby could have!
Mother's milk is the best food for your baby. It has the perfect balance of vitamins and trace elements, it strengthens the immune system and reduces the risk of many diseases. And of course, it helps to establish an emotional bond between mom and baby [1].
But if you can't breastfeed, the thought of you and your baby missing out on all of these benefits may be weighing on you. You may be experiencing embarrassment, discomfort, or even guilt. Here are seven ways to deal with uncomfortable emotions around not breastfeeding.
Acknowledge your feelings
It's perfectly normal to feel frustrated, depressed, or annoyed. You don't have to chase these emotions away. They are natural.
Learn more about artificial feeding
The WHO estimates that mother's milk is the ideal food for babies [2]. However, a quality formula is a worthy alternative to breastfeeding and has everything your baby needs for growth and development. Explore your options with your pediatrician and choose the best one.
Turn bottle feeding into an intimate experience
You can bond with your baby and form a strong attachment without breastfeeding. When feeding, look your baby in the eye, talk, and sing to them.
Do not forget about body contact
Hold your baby in your arms often, hold them close to you, and kiss and cuddle as much as you want to. These sweet and tender actions help strengthen your emotional bond with your baby.
Do not compare yourself with others
Every mom's experience is unique. Love and care come in many different ways.
Remind yourself of your strength
Make a mental note of all the things you do to be a responsive, attentive, and loving mom. There are plenty, and you should feel good about all of them.
Think of an encouraging phrase to say to yourself
For example: "I am a loving mom; I do everything I can to keep my baby healthy and happy". Repeat it as often as possible.
