Ready to introduce your breastfed baby to a bottle? Here are 10 tips to help . . .
#1 Give your baby time to adjust to this new skill, especially if you are preparing to go back to work or school. It can take a week or two for a baby to learn to go back and forth between breastfeeding and a bottle or switching completely to a bottle.
#2 Select a slow-flow nipple that allows the baby to “pull” milk from the bottle.
#3 Offer the bottle when your baby first shows signs of hunger. Don’t wait until they are very hungry because it is harder for them to settle down and eat.
#4 Position the baby in an almost-upright position to give him comfort and control.
#5 Hold the bottle at an angle to ensure the nipple is filled with milk. This will keep the baby from swallowing air.
#6 Signal to the baby it is time to eat by brushing his lips with the nipple. Then, when he opens his mouth, place the nipple so that his lips rest on the base. The baby should not have just the tip of the nipple in his mouth.
#7 Let someone else offer the baby the bottle since she is used to nursing with you.
#8 Watch for signs that the baby is getting too much milk (gulping, wide eyes). You might need an even slower-flow nipple.
#9 The baby should be able to eat 3-4 oz in about 15-20 minutes. Watch for signs that the baby is done (slower sucking, pushing the nipple out, falling asleep). Then, tip the bottle down to stop the flow of milk gradually.
#10 As with nursing, burp often and even consider changing sides to give the baby a new view (and your arm a rest)!
It will take some time to learn this new skill, so be patient with yourself and your baby.
From Childbirth Education classes to labor and post-labor support, Tennessee Family Doulas are excited to meet you and work with you! We love walking with our moms and babies in those early days. Reach out and let one of our doulas help you navigate this new season of life.
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