Breast or Bottle Feeding - The Great Debate

I am a member of an online forum for mothers and the founder of the website began a discussion around breast and bottle feeding.

Many women commented on the topic and almost all of the mums who are bottlefeeding expressed their disappointment, guilt and sadness at *having* to bottle feed. A few of the breast feeding mums made it clear they find those who are bottle feeding have let their babies down as most breast feeding issues can be overcome. Apparently.

Anyway. Here is my comment:

Oh my, how interesting reading all the comments. I find it incredibly sad to read that the mums who are bottle feeding feel so guilty and upset and disappointed with themselves. How awful to feel that way.

Firstly I would like to acknowledge that yes, breast is best (nutritionally) for baby. Most mothers know that. However, my opinion is that the topic has become far too controversial and AGAIN mums are being made to feel as though they can't get it 'right'. (sigh)

When are we going to let up on ourselves?

Motherhood and life in general isn't black and white and mums who are bottlefeeding (whether it was through choice or not) should NOT be judged or in ANY way made to feel bad.

We are intelligent women and we can make our own choices. That does not give us the right to judge others for their decisions.

As long as Mum is happy then baby will be happy. There shouldn't be any more to this topic than that.


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Kirstie Gillon-Wood is Director of 90 Degree Coaching Ltd., a company devoted to supporting women wanting to create independence, and achieve personal and professional success. You can learn more about Kirstie’s products and services at http://www.90degreecoaching.co.nz.