The F Word...

I bet you thought the F word in this post was going to be formula, nope, it's feeding.  Believe me that alone is enough of a trigger word.  There is nothing that I have personally encountered this is a more polarizing subject for mothers than how you feed your baby. 

There is not enough space to launch into breast-feeding's science, too small trials, non-sibling variables, not accounting for socioeconomic status, discounting crucial variables such as maternal IQ, maternal prenatal and postnatal care etc. Or enough space to discuss how breastfeeding has evolved as a moral imperative.  Or conversely to discuss the past shady practices of formula companies that gave them their demonized status.

What I want to say is, let's call a truce! Let's recognize that mom's are doing their best.  If you choose to breastfeed, awesome, anywhere, anytime ladies, feed your babies.  As a Postpartum Doula, I am trained and excited to help assist and support you. If you are bottle feeding out of need or choice, cool, whip your bottles out without shame. As a Postpartum Doula, I have lots of great information on safe practices when formula feeding.

Making a specific feeding choice doesn't make you a better mother, it just means a particular method has been successful for you and your baby.  Be kind, we always have far more in common than not.  The following are two great feeding resources.

www.kellymom.com
www.fedisbest.org