Five Tips for Transitioning from Breast to Bottle
This blog was written in paid partnership with Dr. Brown's.
Your breastfed baby may need a bottle for a number of different reasons. However, not all breastfed babies easily accept a bottle. Because of this, you may need a few tips for navigating the transition from breast to bottle. Though every baby is different, keeping calm, confident and secure during the transition to bottle feeding is the key to success. Here are five quick tips to help with the transition from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding.
1) Find a Bottle With a Gradual Slope
When it comes to bottles, it can be easier to transition to a bottle that has a more gradual slope versus a bottle with a dramatic change from nipple tip to base of the nipple. There are several bottle types available with a gradual slope, including the Dr. Brown's Anti-Colic Options+ bottle. When looking at bottle nipples, find a bottle that closely looks more like your anatomy. A lot of advertised bottles will state that they are "breast-like" in appearance, but not many are. Finding a bottle that your baby accepts most effortlessly will help ease the transition process for you, your baby and any caregivers who may be feeding your baby.
2) Start With a Practice Feed
To begin the transition to bottle feeding, start with a small, "snack" size feeding to start. There are several reasons to do this practice feed. First, you don't want to waste either breastmilk or formula. According to the CDC's milk preparation guidelines, you have up to two hours to use the heated breast milk once the feeding has started or two hours if you're using formula. The weight of the bottle has the potential to intimidate the baby. Starting small carries less weight physically and metaphorically. You can begin offering your baby your breastmilk in 1–2-ounce increments.
3) Offer but Don't Force
Start your first bottle feed with an introduction. Sometimes, your baby needs to experience a bottle before they are apt to accept it. You can begin by letting your baby hold the bottle and seeing where their instincts guide them. If they easily place it in their mouths, that could be a great sign that they are interested in the bottle and may accept the milk with ease.
Once you've introduced your baby to the bottle, you can begin to offer them the milk. If they push away or seem uninterested, do not attempt to push it into their pursed lips without permission. This moment is a lesson for both of you. You are exploring patience while your baby is exploring their boundaries and consent. You can try different introductory methods that are appropriate for your baby. Take breaks throughout the day or over the course of a week and try again. Consider leaving the room and having another family member attempt as well. There are many ways to offer, vary your location or time of day, but the most important thing is not to force the baby to feed.
4) Offer With Motion
Another option that can be helpful when offering a bottle is to use some sort of motion. You can start in a glider or rocking chair, soothing your baby with motion, and then offer the bottle. You can also feed them on a large workout ball or simply stand up and sway; pick whatever method is the most comfortable for you and your baby. Fortunately, this gentle movement may also serve as a nice distraction for you both.
5) Call In for Assistance
If you've tried everything and things are still not working, it's time to ask for help! While most people think that lactation consultants can only help with breastfeeding, a lot of IBCLCs can also help with bottle acceptance. Reaching out to a health care professional with expertise in bottle feeding can take some of the stress off your family when attempting this transition.
Incorporating these five tips into your daily routine can help ease the transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.