Bottle Introduction
by Barbara Dehn - 17th October 2008
I had a question the other day about how to introduce a bottle of pumped milk or formula to a baby. This mom will be returning to work, has already seen her supply drop off despite lots of pump sessions and fenugreek (an ancient medicinal herb that can incrase milk production). Her baby is breastfeeding and has been able to take a few bottles a couple of times each week, but lately has been refusing.
One way to help is to start the baby at the breast, let them eat for a few minutes to satisfy the immediate hunger, then quickly release the suction and slide in a bottle that’s ready to go. Babies will often take a few sucks before they know there’s been a switch.
One key is to keep the baby close and snuggled the entire time, don’t readjust the baby or your position. It also helps to have the bottle at the right temp (warm, not too hot) and where you can easily reach it, so that the switch occurs within seconds.
Keep trying. In order to help babies take a bottle, you have to try at least once each day, every day starting at 3-4 weeks. If you wait too long, the likelihood of success is diminished. Some moms find that a nipple that flows a little faster works better too. Good luck, and let us know what has worked for you.
For more see my breastfeeding site at Blue Orchid Press.
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