Breastfeed, Bottle Feed, or Both?
Did you know that August is National Breastfeeding Month? I honestly didn’t even realize until I saw breastfeeding photos and status updates of support in my Facebook feed. And I’ve even seen a couple complaints about it, too. But I’m ALL FOR IT! Breastfeeding AND an entire month to celebrate it. However I’ve talked before about my struggle breastfeeding and the guilt that comes with it. And I can see where EVERY mama feeding her baby – regardless of breast or bottle – could use some support and celebration. So in honor of National Breastfeeding Month, I’ve gathered up some of my favorite breastfeeding resources AND bottle feeding resources. Check ’em out…
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Playtex Baby. All opinions are authentic and my own. Please see my disclosure policy.
The Best Breastfeeding AND Bottle Feeding Resources
- The Best Breastfeeding Positions – Positioning a newborn for proper latch is WAY trickier than it looks. I love that Parents.com has included videos for for of the most popular breastfeeding positions.
- Latching & Positioning Resources – Speaking of latch… my babies had a terrible time latching on. I even ended up having to have my Priscilla’s frenulum (tongue tie) clipped to get a proper latch for her. I love all of the resources at KellyMom, but especially these ones on proper latch.
“Even if latch and positioning look perfect (and, yes, even if a lactation consultant told you they were fine), pain and/or ineffective milk transfer indicate that there is a problem somewhere.” KellyMom.com
- How to Increase Your Milk Supply Naturally – Generally milk supply issues are related to proper latch and/or frequency of feedings. But sometimes it can be related to a medical condition (so make sure to check with your lactation consultant and/or doctor). And sometimes a mama just wants to boost supply up for extra pumping. Here’s a great list from a fellow breastfeeding mom with ways to naturally increase milk supply.
- 6 Common Breastfeeding Ailments and How to Treat Them – There are many challenges that can come with breastfeeding. And usually it’s one of these six. Bookmark this resource about breastfeeding ailments and treatments just in case.
- All About Pumping – Let me tell you: I know ALL ABOUT pumping. With latch and milk-supply issues for all three of my babies, I have done tons and tons of pumping. This site has great information on pumping – for any mom regardless of why she’s pumping.
- 20 Tips for Successful Breastfeeding From Moms Who’ve Been There – Last year, I polled all of my blogging mama friends on their best tips and tricks for breastfeeding success. I love that this advice is from REAL moms – in their own words – and not just the “experts” or doctors.
“Draw upon the experiences of the moms you know to help you learn as much as possible and then refrain from comparing yourself to them once you figure out what works for you and your baby.” Sheila of Pennies of Time
- The Breast-Bottle Balance – Most breastfeeding advocates warn against supplementing with formula as it can negatively affect the mother’s milk supply. However, there are many reasons that a mom might choose to supplement. In my case, supplementing allowed me to continue breastfeeding at least part time after I was emotionally and physically exhausted by my “increase my milk supply and try to solely breastfeed” battle. Mom365.com has a pretty balanced look at how to make supplementing work for you if you choose it.
- How to Stop Breastfeeding WITHOUT The Guilt – Like I said, I’ve had lots of breastfeeding struggles. And have “given up” on breastfeeding at various points in my babies stages. I completely understand that every mom has their own reasons for not breastfeeding or stopping breastfeeding at any given time. Here is some encouragement and tips for taming the guilt when breastfeeding stops.
“I found bottle-feeding to be just as wonderful a bonding experience, and one that my husband could participate in too.” Emma of P is for Preschooler
- Baby Formula Feeding Tips from This Mama of 3 – I supplemented each of my babies with formula when my milk supply was inadequate for them. And they were each primarily formula and bottle fed. So I know a thing or two about formula feeding. Here are my best formula feeding tips.
- Tips for Bottle-Feeding Problems – Yes. Bottle feeding can be challenging, too! Here are some tips for bottle feeding problems that might arise.
So tell me – what is your baby feeding story? Did you breastfeed or bottle feed or both? Or are you a mama-to-be researching? I’d love to hear more in the comments below!
And make sure to stop by the Playtex Baby Facebook Page for more breastfeeding and bottle feeding stories and resources from more Playtex Mom Trust Program Moms!
melanie says
Thanks for linking back to my site! I plan on homeschooling my girls too, so I will be sure to check out all of your learning activities!