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The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) continues to work to addressthe infant formula shortage that has impacted the country since February, but that may provide little relief for parents with babies to feed.

Amidst the conversations regarding the shortage, many uneducated people are wondering why more people don’t just breastfeed (also known as chestfeeding)—why is so much formula necessary in the first place?

While this might seem like a fair question at first glance, it ignores the complexity inherent in feeding an infant, and the history of breastfeeding stigma that has placed shame on parents for hundreds of years.

Mothers who want to breastfeed and parents who want to chest feed are generally expected to do so in secrecy—as breasts are still sexualized and culturally taboo—and parents who opt to use formula for a variety of reasons are then criticized for not taking the “natural” route.

It can feel like an impossible battle, and the current formula shortage is highlighting the struggle all the more.

Mental Health May Be Impacted

Licensed psychologist who specializes in perinatal, pediatrics, and infertility support,Danielle D. Jenkins, PsyD, says, “The formula shortage is contributing to worsening parental mental health in several ways.”

Jenkins explains, “It is natural and normal for parents to be vigilant about making sure their babies are fed. So when something happens to impact one’s ability to feed their child, the anxiety ramps up.”

Jenkins highlights, “It may reignite or worsen feelings of guilt and uncertainty about all that went into their family using formula in the first place. Even in cases where they began using formula after an arduous decision-making process or a grueling fight to nurse, guilt is present.”

Unfortunately, this can make parents feel powerless in caring for their kids, as Jenkins notes this can contribute to depression andanxiety. She underscores how problematic it is to respond to the formula shortage with assumptions that breastfeeding is free.

Danielle D. Jenkins, PsyDWe should empower families for making the choice that works best for them. We should trust them to make the best choice for their situation and support them in whatever choice they make (or have to make).

Danielle D. Jenkins, PsyD

We should empower families for making the choice that works best for them. We should trust them to make the best choice for their situation and support them in whatever choice they make (or have to make).

Having completed her doctoral dissertation on predicting and preventingpostpartum depression, Jenkins has been thinking critically about these issues that impact mental health following birth for decades.

In terms of the research, Jenkins explains, “There are two factors that rise above the others when it comes to perinatal mood and anxiety disorders—preexisting anxiety and perceived lack of support.”

Jenkins explains, “This creates an environment where anxiety, depression, and stress breed and parents feel strain, isolation, and overwhelm. Parents are often reluctant to ask anyone for help, especially around hot button issues. It’s ok to ask for help.”

Jenkins continues, “Call your local WIC office even if you don’t qualify. Call your pediatrician and ask if they have samples. Join parent groups on social media. Ask your friends and neighbors. Please consult with a pediatrician if you are going to try alternative means of feeding.”

Given the formula shortage, some parents are watering down formula in desperation, according to Jenkins. “This is dangerous, and even life-threatening, especially for babies under six months of age,” she says.

Jenkins notes that the current culture is not supportive of breastfeeding as parental leaves are insufficient to meet the needs of families, yet parents are often shamed for their decisions, despite structural issues that limit their control.

The reality is that “fed is best,” according to Jenkins. “We should empower families for making the choice that works best for them. We should trust them to make the best choice for their situation and support them in whatever choice they make (or have to make),” she says.

Handling Negative Feedback from Others

Licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in new parent challenges, perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, and infertility struggles,Emily Guarnotta, PsyD, says, “Most [new parents] are not prepared for the challenges that can arise, like difficulty latching and poor supply.”

Guarnotta explains, “Coming to terms with these challenges and either incorporating formula or doing a combination can be difficult. The current formula shortage can add stress to an already stressful experience.”

Emily Guarnotta, PsyDParents are already stretched thin with trying to care for their children and meet their needs, and not having access to nutrition for their children is extremely stressful. We should all be asking parents how we can support them during this very difficult time.

Emily Guarnotta, PsyD

Parents are already stretched thin with trying to care for their children and meet their needs, and not having access to nutrition for their children is extremely stressful. We should all be asking parents how we can support them during this very difficult time.

At the very least, Guarnotta recommends a simple statement like “You’re entitled to your opinion, but I’ve chosen to do things differently” to stop an unproductive conversation. “I wish people understood that this national crisis puts parents in an impossible situation,” she says.

Guarnotta highlights, “Parents are already stretched thin with trying to care for their children and meet their needs, and not having access to nutrition for their children is extremelystressful. We should all be asking parents how we can support them during this very difficult time.”

Each parent is trying to do the best that they can, according to Guarnotta. “Whether a family chooses to breastfeed or formula feed, more than likely a lot of thought has gone into the decision and we should respect each family’s choices,” she says.

What This Means For YouThe current infant formula shortage may have mental health impacts for new parents. If you are able to provide support in navigating this, new parents may welcome it. Even if unable to provide tangible assistance regarding the formula shortage, you may be in a position to challenge the negative judgment from uninformed opinions.

What This Means For You

The current infant formula shortage may have mental health impacts for new parents. If you are able to provide support in navigating this, new parents may welcome it. Even if unable to provide tangible assistance regarding the formula shortage, you may be in a position to challenge the negative judgment from uninformed opinions.

Mothers Who Breastfeed Have Lower Risk of Postpartum Depression, Research Shows

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