Andi Dorfman, a television personality known for her appearance on “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette,” recently opened up about her decision to formula-feed her newborn daughter, Harper. Dorfman, who married Blaine Hart in May 2023, welcomed Harper on December 20, 2024. Her decision, she explained, was influenced by a series of unforeseen circumstances that unfolded during and after her delivery, ultimately leading her to embrace formula feeding as the best option for both her and her baby. Dorfman’s candid sharing of her experience sheds light on the often-judged topic of infant feeding, emphasizing the importance of individualized choices and rejecting the stigma surrounding formula feeding.
Initially, Dorfman planned to primarily use a breast pump to feed Harper breast milk, allowing her to precisely monitor her daughter’s intake. This approach aligns with her family history, as both she and her sister were formula-fed as infants. However, Harper’s unexpected stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) following her birth introduced the first deviation from Dorfman’s plan. While in the NICU, Harper was given formula and thrived on it, leading Dorfman to continue with formula feeding upon returning home. Furthermore, Dorfman’s own milk hadn’t come in yet, reinforcing the practicality of continuing with formula.
Dorfman’s postpartum journey took another unexpected turn when she herself required surgery due to two hematomas, a complication involving closed wounds that prevent blood drainage. This medical intervention further disrupted her ability to establish breastfeeding. Despite attempting to pump multiple times, Dorfman found that her milk supply never fully materialized. Uncharacteristically, she did not experience the typical discomforts associated with milk cessation, such as engorgement or pain, further solidifying the path towards exclusive formula feeding.
The absence of these common side effects left Dorfman pondering the reasons behind her lack of milk production. While unsure whether it was due to the timing of her surgery, a naturally low supply, or simply her body’s own design, she ultimately accepted the situation and continued with formula feeding. This acceptance reflects a growing movement among mothers to prioritize their individual circumstances and reject societal pressures surrounding breastfeeding. Dorfman’s transparency about her experience underscores the importance of destigmatizing formula feeding and supporting mothers in choosing the feeding method that best suits their needs and their babies’ well-being.
Dorfman’s public narrative serves as a powerful counterpoint to the idealized image often presented of motherhood and infant feeding. Her story highlights the unexpected challenges that can arise during the postpartum period and the necessary adjustments that mothers sometimes must make. By openly sharing her experience, Dorfman provides reassurance to other mothers who might be facing similar challenges or feeling societal pressure to breastfeed. Her message is clear: a thriving baby is the ultimate goal, regardless of the feeding method used.
In a society that often places immense pressure on mothers to breastfeed, Dorfman’s decision to openly share her experience with formula feeding is a significant step towards normalizing this often stigmatized choice. Her story serves as a reminder that motherhood journeys are unique and unpredictable. It emphasizes the importance of flexibility, self-compassion, and prioritizing the well-being of both mother and baby, regardless of societal expectations. By sharing her story, Dorfman empowers other mothers to make informed decisions about infant feeding, free from judgment and guilt, and to embrace the feeding method that works best for their individual circumstances. Harper’s thriving development further validates Dorfman’s decision, emphasizing that a healthy and happy baby is the ultimate measure of successful parenting.
