Hooray for Boobies! (& I don't mean the Bloodhound Gang album)

When faced with the choice of breast versus bottle, there isn’t much deliberation for me. Here are the extremely convincing factors in my decision:

• First and foremost, breast milk is one of the healthiest things you can do for your newborn. There are many all-important antibodies and nutrients passed from mother to child, especially in the first few days. (The extra-special milk produced right after birth is called colostrum, which is thicker and a yellowish hue).
• Of course, there is also the cost savings. If you've ever looked at the prices of formula at the store, you'll know that it is expensive!! I don’t get why anyone would want to spend the money on formula when they have a free supply of nutrition made right in their own body (unless of course there is a sound medical reason or a need to supplement).
• Convenience! How easy is it to just pop a boob into a baby’s mouth at 3 a.m. rather than have to stumble down to the kitchen, mix up the formula, and heat the bottle?
• Lastly, there is also the bonding experience. It is shown that the physcial contact has a postivive effect on babies, and helps them feel more secure. It can also help mothers who may suffer from post-partum depression.

I do have some concerns about being able to breastfeed, though. A common symptom of Down syndrome is hypotonia, or lack of muscle tone. The easiest way I've seen this described is that a baby will feel “floppy” in your arms.

According to my research, a baby with DS often has trouble learning how to suck properly due to hypotonia (since the muscles in and around the mouth are also affected). It typically takes more effort to start milk flow and maintain a latch during breastfeeding. Therefore babies with Down syndrome often have a difficult time getting enough milk. This can in turn affect a woman’s milk production, hence exacerbating the problem.

From all that I’ve read it is completely possible to overcome the difficulties. There are ways of holding the baby which can help mitigate low tone issues as the baby learns to nurse. Also, pumping is often necessary to ensure milk supply is adequate, and can also be used to help with starting milk flow before a nursing session.

Again, from what I’ve read and researched, pumping can be a little tricky at first, and it may be very time consuming. Having a high quality pump can certainly help alleviate any frustration, although they can be quite pricey! I was lucky enough to win the Medela Pump in Style, thanks to All About Baby Charlotte and the Nursing Mother's Place at Presbyterian Hospital.

Now it may sound really strange, but I can’t wait to use it!! (Mainly because that means I will finally be able to meet my little angel).

For mothers who have chosen to formula feed.... what made your decision?