You've likely heard this before, if not experienced it yourself, but let me say it loudly enough for the back row just in case...
Babies.
Are.
Expensive.
Medical bills for labor and delivery can be tens of thousands of dollars in the U.S. Some estimate an average of $18,000 but the cost varies greatly depending on the type of delivery, complications, and insurance coverage.
Imagine having to pay this massive bill while your income is limited (or even eliminated) during maternity leave. Then, on top of that, facing the cost of ongoing care for your little one. Pediatric bills, car seats, diapers...the list feels endless.
So, what can a budget-conscious mom do to keep costs down?
In a healthy economy with free global trade, she would shop a variety of brands to find products that balance quality and price. There might be some tradeoffs, but she would generally be able to set a budget and stick to it.
Unfortunately, this is becoming increasingly difficult due to impending tariffs on U.S. trade partners. Did you know that nearly 90% of juvenile products sold in the U.S. are manufactured abroad? That means a majority of babycare products will see hugeprice hikes as companies pass tariff costs on to consumers.
As you can read in this interview with the CEO of Munchkin, many companies in the juvenile goods industry are even halting their production altogether. That means American parents will not only have less options but may not even be able to purchase the products they need.
Now more than ever, we need to provide working moms with support.
Women who are given ample time off after birth and are well-supported through their breastfeeding journey will be able to circumvent some of these higher costs. Each week of paid maternity leave enables direct chestfeeding which means less bottles, bottle nipples, breastmilk freezer bags, etc. It also means delaying costly daycare fees.
Curious what that bottom line difference looks like? Check out this comparison of costs incurred in the first year. As you’ll see, maternity leave and breastfeeding can have a significant impact on a family's financial wellbeing.
Every penny matters.
Amanda Bond Founder, Boobbatical LLC
The Bottom Line on Feeding
The decision on how a mom feeds her baby is deeply personal and each option comes with its own pros and cons, including costs. Check out this cost comparison to learn more.
