The relationship between breastfeeding, formula-feeding, and infant health

A nonexperimental prospective study was conducted to determine if there is a relationship between breast milk feeding, formula feeding, and infant health. The purpose of the study was to determine within the conceptual framework of Roy's Adaptation Model, whether a specific relationship exists between infant's feeding method and infant health.

The researcher used questionnaires with data gathered at two collection times--1 month and 2 months, and demographic information forms to collect data. Breastfed infants showed less frequency of infectious illnesses than formula fed infants at 1 month and 2 months. Breastfeeding mothers reported fewer calls and visits to health care providers than did formula feeding mothers. Another finding was that breastfeeding infants took fewer prescription, nonprescription, and home remedies than did formula feeding infants.

While none of these differences taken together were statistically significant, a pattern appears to emerge suggesting the need for further research.