Skipping the Breast for the Bottle and Relentless Advice for 02/25/2017

Dear Family Coach: I'm about to have my second son. I tried to breast-feed the first one but gave up after six weeks of hell. I don't even want to try this time, but my husband and friends are pressuring me. If I hear one more time how breast is best, I'm going to scream. Is it OK to just go right to formula? — Bottle Best Mom

Dear Mom: Extensive research does show that breastmilk offers distinct advantages for moms and babies. Breast-fed babies have a lower risk of asthma, obesity, respiratory infections, SIDS and Type 2 diabetes. Formula costs money and isn't as easily digested as breastmilk. Plus, preparing and cleaning those bottles is a pain.

Updated: Sat Feb 25, 2017