Several factors have contributed to the renewed interest women have in breastfeeding. The age of first-time motherhood – and with it fertility problems – has increased, causing women to want the “complete” motherhood experience. Many experts tout the superiority of breastfeeding. There are more lactation specialists giving instruction and encouragement.        There’s greater acceptance by society. And new pumping devices have made it easier for women to work outside the home.

Breastfeeding advocates point to the immediate availability of nutrition for infants. They say the increased calories used while nursing make post-baby-weight loss easier; and also that the antibodies in breast milk protect infants from bacteria and viruses, make them less vulnerable to infection and reduce infant mortality. They say breastfeeding saves on healthcare costs, contributes to a more productive workforce and is more environmentally-friendly because it eliminates pollution from plastic bottles and formula cans.

However, breastfeeding isn’t recommended for women who are undergoing chemotherapy or hormonal therapy, who have HIV or who are addicted to drugs (even prescription drugs), because of the dangers these pose to the nursing infant.

And some women simply prefer bottle-feeding. Advocates cite the ability of fathers, older siblings and family members to participate actively in the feeding process, the easy and more reliable monitoring of the baby’s intake, and few if any dietary demands and restrictions on new mothers.

Generally speaking, the intimate act of feeding one’s infant should be based solely on the new mother’s temperament, family situation, physical and mental condition, and personal preference. Whichever method a woman chooses, both:

• enhance the bonding process between infant and mother;
  
• allow mother and baby “alone time;”
  
• increase confidence in the mother vis-à-vis her parenting skills.

Joan Swirsky is a psychotherapist, former OB nurse and the author of Gift of Life: A Spiritual Companion for the Mother-to-Be.