by Victoria Tiegert

Created on: October 23, 2009

For some expectant mothers, there is no thought even given to the choice of bottle or breast feeding. For one reason or another, they just know which one is right for them and their new baby. Often, they know because they've already had at least one child and will simply be doing the same thing that they did the last time. For other expectant mothers, though, this is a decision that they will spend much time during the pregnancy contemplating and weighing out. It can be a tough choice for some. Here are some of the things that you should consider when determining which feeding method you will opt for.

*Will you be returning to work after having your baby, and if so, when? Breast feeding can be a challenge if you are in the working world. Your baby will need to eat while you are away, so you will need to pump enough of your breast milk to leave with the care provider. There can also be uncomfortable moments at the workplace if your breasts begin to leak during the day. This is especially true of those who work with the public.

*How important is sleeping at night to your schedule? Babies who are on formula tend to stay fuller, longer. They can have a bottle before bed and it may keep them satisfied clear through until morning. On the other hand, the breast fed baby will often need more nightly feedings. While this works for many new mothers, there are some that absolutely need their rest at night for whatever reason.

*Which one is more suited to your personality? If you are a rather active person that cannot stand just sitting for long lengths of time, bottle feeding could be better for you. Although some babies will breast feed until they're full and then allow you to remove them from the breast, others become irritated with the removal and will insist on more feeding, even if they've had their fill. Some new mothers love breast feeding, others find it very frustrating. Those who love it enjoy the wonderful bonding time that it gives them with their infant, but those who don't can find bottle feeding equally as enjoyable.

*Can you do both? There are women who choose to incorporate both bottle and breast feeding into their lives and the lives of their babies. Not all babies will do well with this method, but for those who will, it can give the new mother the best of both worlds.

*Is money an issue for you? Formula is very expensive! If money is tight in your home, breast feeding may be the best option for you. This is just a realistic decision.

*How is your baby's health? Breast feeding is proven to be the healthier option for babies, especially in the first six weeks as their immune systems are being developed and built up. If you can breast feed for at least that long, it is really good to do it. If your baby has some medical issues already, it is definitely the better option if at all possible.

*Does your baby agree with your decision? There are some babies who just do not breast feed well, or at all. While two of my children did fine, one of them refused to even give it a good try. There was no changing her mind. She was a bottle baby no what I tried. Sometimes, it's really not only your decision, but one that your baby will be making for you both.

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