Former Bachelorette contestant Andi Dorfman recently opened up about her decision to exclusively formula-feed her newborn daughter, Harper. In a series of Instagram Stories posted on January 9th, Dorfman addressed questions from followers regarding her feeding choices. The 37-year-old mother explained that despite initial plans to use a breast pump, circumstances led her to fully commit to formula feeding. She emphasized that both she and her sister were raised on formula, which influenced her decision. Additionally, Dorfman shared the challenges she faced after Harper's birth, including her own medical complications, which ultimately shaped this choice. Despite societal pressures and stigmas surrounding breastfeeding versus formula feeding, Dorfman remains confident in her decision, ensuring her daughter is thriving.

Dorfman revealed that her original plan involved using a breast pump to provide breast milk while monitoring the exact amount Harper consumed. However, shortly after giving birth on December 20th, Harper required care in the NICU, where she was initially fed formula by hospital staff. This experience laid the foundation for their feeding routine at home. "In the hospital, I attempted to pump but my milk hadn't come in yet," Dorfman explained. "Harper responded well to the formula, so we brought some home with us." Once home, Dorfman continued trying to establish a milk supply but encountered difficulties. "I tried pumping a couple more times, but nothing came out," she said, adding that she experienced none of the usual physical signs associated with stopping lactation.

Complications arose when Dorfman herself needed surgery shortly after Harper's birth. During her recovery, her focus shifted entirely to healing. "I wasn't thinking about pumping; I was focused on getting better," she recalled. These events further delayed any attempts to produce breast milk. Eventually, Dorfman decided to fully embrace formula feeding. "We just kept going with the formula," she stated. "Harper has gained all her weight back and is doing great."

Dorfman expressed hope that sharing her story would help others facing similar decisions. She highlighted the importance of not judging parents based on their feeding choices. "There's so much judgment and stigma around breastfeeding or formula feeding," she observed. "But every family's situation is unique, and what matters most is that babies are well-fed and healthy." Dorfman concluded by emphasizing that Harper is thriving on a diet of formula, reinforcing her belief that "fed is best."