How do I properly transition baby to bottle feeding?

Introducing baby to bottle feeding can be a delicate process, and it's essential to do it in a way that minimizes confusion and ensures a smooth transition. Here are some steps to help you introduce a bottle to your breastfed baby:

  • Timing: Wait until breastfeeding is well-established, usually around 4-6 weeks after birth. This allows your baby to become skilled at latching and sucking at the breast.

  • Choose the right bottle and nipple: Select a bottle and nipple that closely mimics the breast. Look for slow-flow or newborn nipples to reduce the flow rate, which can be similar to breastfeeding. Bottles with a wide base and a shape that resembles a breast can also help the baby latch more naturally. We recommend only buying one bottle and nipple to start as you may have to try different models before finding what baby prefers.

  • Start with small amounts of breast milk: Begin by offering a bottle with a small amount of expressed breast milk. This ensures that your baby associates the bottle with something familiar and comforting. You can gradually increase the volume as your baby becomes more accustomed to it.

  • Use paced bottle feeding: Practice paced bottle feeding, which mimics the slower, more controlled flow of breastfeeding. Hold the bottle horizontally, allowing the baby to suck, swallow, and pause as needed, rather than holding the bottle vertically which lets the milk flow continuously.

Remember that every baby is unique, and the key is to be responsive to your baby's cues and preferences during the bottle introduction process. It's also essential to maintain breastfeeding if that's your goal, so continue to offer the breast as the primary source of nutrition. Consulting with the lactation consultants at DMC for guidance and support can be invaluable throughout this transition.

Caitlin Hainley