Formula vs. Breastmilk
Breaking the Taboo and Choosing What Actually Works
Feeding your baby is not a test you have to pass.
It is a relationship. A rhythm. A learning curve.
As a Calgary doula, I have supported families across every feeding path. Some exclusively breastfeed. Some combo feed. Some choose formula from day one because that is what keeps their mental health steady. One thing I know without a doubt:
There is no one right way to feed your baby.
There is only what works for you.
We need to talk more about that.
The Unspoken Pressure Around Feeding
There is still a strange taboo around formula. Many parents feel like they have to defend their feeding decisions. Social media does not help. Neither do the “just try harder” comments from strangers.
Here in Alberta, around 80 percent of parents leave the hospital breastfeeding. By six months, only about 30 percent are exclusively nursing (AHS, 2024). Most families shift to supplementing or fully formula feeding because of supply challenges, exhaustion, returning to work, mental health needs or personal preference.
Choosing formula is not giving up.
Sometimes it is choosing stability.
And your mental health matters.
High stress affects milk supply (Cochrane Review, 2023). When feeding becomes a battle, nobody wins. Sometimes the most loving choice is the one that brings peace into your home.
Breastfeeding
Why it is incredible (and sometimes really hard)
Breastmilk is biologically designed for your baby. It contains antibodies, adapts to your baby’s needs and supports bonding through skin to skin and oxytocin release.
Benefits:
Helps protect against infections and allergies
Free and always ready
Supports postpartum recovery and may lower breast cancer risk (Health Canada, 2024)
Calgary families have access to free AHS lactation support at South Calgary Health Centre
But breastfeeding is not always a magical experience. It can be:
Painful or stressful
Demanding on your time and body
Emotionally heavy if you feel like everything depends on you
Hard to maintain if you are juggling other kids, healing, or dealing with exhaustion
Breastfeeding is a skill. It takes practice, support and patience. If it works well for you and you love it, that is beautiful.
If it doesn’t, you are still a good mom.
Formula Feeding
Why formula can be a healthy, grounding choice
Formula is nutritionally complete and regulated. Babies thrive on it every single day.
Benefits:
Predictable intake, which helps with tracking growth
Partners can share feeds, which means you can sleep
Reduces pressure when breastfeeding feels overwhelming
Supports mental health by giving you breathing room
Formula is not “second best.” It is simply a different feeding method.
My go to formula recommendation: Kendamil
If you explore formula, many Calgary families love Kendamil. It is made in the UK using whole milk and avoids palm oil and soy. It mixes smoothly and is often gentler on digestion. You can find it at Costco or online.
Note: Consult your pediatrician if your baby has known allergies or reflux concerns. Some babies need hydrolyzed or specialized formulas.
Combo Feeding
Yes, you can have both!
Combo feeding can be the sweet spot. Breastfeed when it feels right. Formula when you need help. Mornings at the breast. Evenings with a bottle. You are not “confusing your baby.” You are feeding your baby.
Responsive feeding is what matters. Follow your baby, not the clock.
Mental Health Matters
You are allowed to choose the option that keeps you well
A nourished baby and a supported parent are the goal.
Not martyrdom. Not misery.
You do not have to earn the right to rest.
If breastfeeding feels heavy and you can feel anxiety creeping in, formula might be the more loving choice. A baby needs warmth, responsiveness, eye contact, and a parent who feels safe.
Feeding should not cost you your mental health.
Handling Opinions Gracefully
People mean well, but unsolicited advice right after birth hits different. Here are easy responses that protect your boundaries:
When someone pushes breastfeeding:
Thanks for your advice. We are choosing what works for our family.
When formula is questioned:
Our baby is thriving and so are we. That is what matters.
When someone asks why you are combo feeding:
This is the rhythm that keeps everyone rested.
Neutral deflector:
Feeding is personal. How did it go for you?
Calgary Feeding Resources
AHS Lactation Clinics: South Calgary Health Centre. Call 811 for help booking.
Local formula support: Calgary Formula Feeding Parents Facebook group
Donor milk: Available through community milk banks such as Northern Star Milk Bank Usually around $20 per 100 ml due to screening costs.
Doula support: My postpartum care includes feeding support without judgement. Click here to view my services.
A Simple Checklist to Help You Decide
What do you need to feel well right now
What does support look like in your home
Do you want your partner involved in feeds
Do you feel pressure to feed a certain way
Which option brings you peace
Your sanity matters. Your rest matters. Your baby needs you well more than they need any specific feeding method.
Final Thoughts
Breastmilk. Formula. Combo.
You are not choosing sides. You are choosing your family.
Fed is best. Supported is better. And a mentally healthy mom is best of all.
If you want feeding support without judgement, I am here.
Book a free consultation: www.laurenhaledoula.ca
