A century ago, most babies were breastfed. Then women entered the work rnforce, formula was invented and the last two generations have debated rnthe benefits of breastfeeding versus formula.
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rnDieticians and nutritionists agree that breastfeeding is best. By rnanalyzing 20 studies on breastfeeding, formula feeding, and brain rndevelopment, and quantifying the IQ benefit from breastfeeding, rnresearchers found that breastfed babies had IQ’s approximately 5 points rnhigher than their formula-fed peers.  Babies nursed up to six months sawrn the most increase, while children who were breastfed for two weeks or rnless showed no IQ benefit.
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rnOther studies show that breastfeeding protects your baby from diarrhea, rnrespiratory problems, and ear infections.  In addition, it appears that rnmoms get benefits from breastfeeding as well; there is evidence that rnshows breastfeeding may reduce new moms’ stress levels, cut your risk ofrn breast cancer and help you lose weight.
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rnSo why would anyone ever not breastfeed?  There are circumstances with rnthe mom or the infant that may make breastfeeding difficult or not an rnoption.  Thankfully, formula is a choice and then it becomes a matter ofrn finding the right formula for your infant.
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rnA lot of mothers have a very difficult time breastfeeding.  It’s a very rnsad, sad feeling when you’ve just given birth, not to be able to feed rnyour baby or have things go smoothly, struggling with a pump, on top of rnsleep deprivation, engorgement of your breasts, sore and bleeding rnnipples..it’s just not supposed to be that difficult. 
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rnHospitals now employ lactation specialists to help the hundreds of moms rnhaving problems with breastfeeding.  Before you give up, try to use all rnthe resources you have available in your community.  There are a lot of rnprograms to help breastfeeding mothers and there are many different rnproducts like nipple covers and other tools you can utilize to help withrn breastfeeding.