Planning on being apart from your baby, or yearning for some flexibility? You may be thinking about introducing your breastfed baby to bottle-feeding. If you’re lucky, your little one will happily take the bottle, but some babies may need little tricks and time to get used to the change.
In this guide, we share techniques and tips on bottle-feeding a breastfed baby and solutions to common concerns you may have.
Choosing the Right Bottle and Nipple
Finding a bottle your baby likes may require some trial and error. Some considerations to keep in mind include:
- Bottle material, design, and size: Baby bottles come in various materials, including plastic, glass, silicone, and stainless steel. You can choose from wide-mouthed, angled-neck, vented, or disposable liner designs. For the size, start small and size up as your baby starts to consume more milk at each feeding.
- Nipple slope, length, and shape: Look for flexible nipples that gradually change width from tip to base. As for the nipple length and shape, go for what looks most natural.
- Nipple flow rate: Start with a slow-flow nipple and advance as your baby masters the art of bottle-feeding. If your little one has trouble accepting this flow rate, you may need to try a different option.
Preparing Breast Milk for Bottle-Feeding
Breastfed babies transitioning to bottle-feeding can be quite picky about the warmth of their milk. Many moms find it easier to pump and feed their babies right away so the milk is at the same temperature they’re used to.
Babies also know the unique scent of mom’s milk. If they smell mom, they may expect to nurse from the breast, so having someone else offer the bottle may be a good idea.
You can store your expressed milk at room temperature for up to 4 hours, in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for 6-12 months. Use tools like MilkFresh to track the freshness of stored breast milk. The sensor adheres to the CDC guidelines and alerts you to use your expressed milk before its shelf-life expires.
The best way to thaw frozen breast milk is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, when it’s near feeding time, warm the milk in a bowl with warm (not hot) water or use a bottle warmer.
How to Bottle-Feed a Breastfed Baby
Once your breast milk is ready, it’s time to feed your baby:
- First, find a comfortable position. Try a position similar to breastfeeding, like cradle hold.
- Cuddle your baby snugly on a slight incline and maintain eye contact so they feel loved and safe.
- Gently brush the bottle nipple against your little one’s lips. Allow them to accept the nipple rather than poking it in.
- Hold the bottle at a horizontal angle so your baby is in more control of the flow and volume of milk.
- Allow your infant to pause frequently to mimic the breastfeeding let-down patterns.
- Switch sides mid-feed.
- Your baby will show you signs when full. Don’t force them to finish the bottle.
- Burp them once the feed is over.
Introducing the Bottle to a Breastfed Baby
If you’re planning on introducing a bottle to your breastfed baby, it’s best to do it somewhere between 3 to 4 weeks. This is enough time to build your milk supply and get to know your baby's hunger cues.
Overcoming Resistance to Bottle-Feeding
If your breastfed baby is having trouble adjusting to bottle-feeding, try these tips:
- Offer the bottle after a regular feeding (after an hour or so). Your baby may be more open to experimenting when relaxed and not so hungry.
- Be patient — try one bottle a day, and then gradually replace other feedings.
- Check the milk flow. If it’s too slow, it can frustrate your little one. You might want to test a few different nipples.
- Dip the outside of the nipple in milk to give it a familiar taste, or offer a few drops as a sample.
- If your baby won’t accept a bottle from you (they know the breast is right there), have someone else feed them the first few times.
- If bottle-feeding doesn't go well, take a break and try again after your baby has calmed down.
How Much to Bottle-Feed Breastfed Baby?
How much to bottle-feed your breastfed baby will depend on several factors, such as their age, size, and whether they’re in a growth spurt. For example, a newborn takes no more than 1 to 2 ounces per feeding, while a 3-month-old baby can take about 6 ounces per feed.
To work out the amount your breastfed baby will need per feeding:
- Estimate the number of times your baby breastfeeds in 24 hours.
- Divide 25 ounces (the average 1 to 6 months old breastfed babies take per day) by the number of feeds.
Consult your pediatrician if you need help figuring out how much to bottle-feed your breastfed baby.
Transitioning from Bottle Back to Breast
If you're thinking about switching from bottle to breast, below are some tips to get you started:
- Make sure your baby is well-fed when trying breastfeeding.
- Hold your baby close to the breast, preferably skin-to-skin.
- Use nipple shields to make your breasts more like a bottle. Express a few drops of milk into the end of the shield.
- Try switching from a bottle to the breast mid-feed.
- Stay relaxed and practice breastfeeding without pressure.
How to Wean Your Baby Off the Bottle
Pediatricians and dentists recommend weaning your baby off the bottle at 12 months. Your little one can continue breastfeeding or drink from a sippy cup at this age.
You can wean off the bottle using the gradual or immediate approach. It depends on what best suits you and your baby.
Bottle-Feeding Techniques for a Breastfed Baby
Getting your breastfed baby to take a bottle can take time and patience. Use the above tips and guidelines to make the transition (a little bit) easier. As always, consult your pediatrician with any questions or expert guidance.
FAQs
Can I combine breastfeeding and bottle-feeding?
Yes, you can combine breastfeeding with bottle-feeding.
How often should I bottle-feed my breastfed baby?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends feeding your baby when they show hunger cues rather than following a schedule. Consult your pediatrician if you have any questions.
What should I do if my breastfed baby refuses the bottle?
Try:
- Offering the bottle when your baby isn’t very hungry
- Different nipples
- Having someone else offer the bottle
Consult your pediatrician to see if there may be a medical cause for the bottle refusal.
