In the span of a year, approximately four million babies are born in the United States. The average age of a mother in the United States is 25 years old. First-time moms have many questions and decisions to make regarding feeding methods and nutrients their child will receive. “In the United States and worldwide, more than 90 percent of infants are breastfed, but only 36 percent are exclusively breastfed for the first six months” (Berger et al., 2011). It's up to parents to choose whether to formula or breastfeed their child, and parents have many questions about which method is best. For example, should I breastfeed or formula feed my child and for how long? Is my child getting enough milk and nutritional value? Next, probably the most frequently asked question is: What are the pros and cons of breastfeeding versus formula-fed babies? Breastfeeding and formula feeding each have advantages and disadvantages, but again, it is up to the parents to decide what they consider best for them and their child. “Ideally, nutrition begins with colostrum, a thick, high-calorie liquid secreted by the body. the mother's breast at birth” (Drover et al., 2009). Three days later, the mother begins to produce breast milk. Breast milk has many benefits. Breast milk, unlike cow's milk formula, is naturally sterile. This means that breast milk is always at room temperature. Breast milk is also rich in nutrients, such as iron and various vitamins. “Exclusively breastfed babies are sick less often” (Berger et al., 2011). Every parent wants their children to be healthy. Many studies show that breastfeeding is healthier for your child and his or her parents, and that it makes your child's future school...... middle of paper ...... she would receive if he was breastfed. The baby may therefore not thrive as much as a breastfed baby. Babies need a considerable amount of physical, mental and emotional care. They can stress you out, make you feel like you're losing your mind, feel like nothing is going right, or make you feel incredibly happy. However, your child needs certain daily nutrients. Everyone wants their child to be happy and healthy. Whether you choose breastfeeding or formula feeding, both options can be effective ways for baby's development. I have outlined the pros and cons of each method, but ultimately it is the parents' choice to determine what is best for them and their baby. They will weigh the pros, cons, conveniences and disadvantages and then make their choice. When your baby cries with hunger: “Do you have milk? what will you choose to give them?