Disadvantages of breastfeeding have a lot. Breastfeeding lowers your baby’s risk of having asthma or allergies. Plus, babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea.
Disadvantages of Breastfeeding
You have a little freedom
When you are breastfeeding, you are always called. You and your breasts need to be found in every meal, day and night. It can be stressful, especially during the first few weeks when you will be breastfeeding your baby every two to three hours night and day.
Breastfeeding can be painful
You may have to deal with some of the unpleasant or painful problems that are common with breastfeeding. These include things like mastitis, breast engorgement, connected milk ducts, and sore nipples.
Your partner can’t feed the baby
Your partner may want to feed the baby and may feel left out of the breastfeeding relationship (unless you pump milk in advance for your partner to use).
It can hurt if you are humble
Some women may feel uncomfortable and embarrassed about breastfeeding near others or in public. If you find it difficult to go out with your child, you may be able to stay home more often, which can lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Breastfeeding can be difficult at first
Not all babies adhere to speed or breastfeeding properly. Breastfeeding may be harder than you think, and you may end up feeling frustrated or depressed. For some, breastfeeding is a learning process.
Breastfeeding requires a healthy choice of lifestyle
You need to think about your diet and lifestyle while breastfeeding. Your baby may have a different food reaction to your diet. So you may need to stop eating dairy products or other things you enjoy.
There are also other things to enjoy in moderation such as caffeine and alcohol. This can be dangerous for your child. Stress and other factors can affect breastfeeding and reduce the availability of your milk.
Deciding whether to breastfeed or not
Breastfeeding does not have to be everything or anything. Some women are comfortable with exclusive breastfeeding, but that is not the only way. Some mothers breastfeed part of the breast, some combine formula feeding and breastfeeding, and still, others only pump. One of these options can help solve daily problems you face.
The most valuable voice
As you decide whether breastfeeding is right for you and your baby, consider contacting a breastfeeding group, such as La Leche League, to learn more and get an early breastfeeding trainer.
Although natural, breastfeeding can be difficult at first and you will need support to complete the first few weeks. Also, if you find that you are not able to breastfeed, remember that a foster baby is the best. You may feel guilty if you need to feed your child formula.
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of not breastfeeding?
Not breastfeeding or weaning prematurely is associated with health risks for mothers as well as for infants. Epidemiologic data suggest that women who do not breastfeed face a higher risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer, as well as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of breastfeeding for both mother and child?
Breastfeeding lowers your baby's risk of having asthma or allergies. Plus, babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first 6 months, without any formula, have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea. They also have fewer hospitalizations and trips to the doctor.
