How to Wean from Being Breastfed to Bottle-Feeding

Perhaps you don't want to give up breastfeeding your baby, but you've got to return to work. Or maybe your baby has been breastfeeding for a year and it's time to transition to the bottle. Whatever your reason, the process can be difficult both for you and the baby, especially if she isn't ready. Weaning is a slow process and demands enormous patience. With some tips and help from family members, you can make the switch easier for you and your baby.

Instructions

1

Start the process when your baby displays breastfeeding withdrawal signs. Observe if he seems to be less and less interested in nursing or if he stops nursing after a few suckles and seems distracted. Notice if he becomes irritable or seems to be in a bad mood during breastfeeding sessions.

2

Introduce your baby to bottle and formula separately; let her adjust to one thing at a time. Use breast milk in the bottle and get her used to the bottle first. Start the weaning process at least two weeks before you are expected to be back at work, so that you have enough time to manage difficulties without being stressed. Postpone weaning if your baby is teething or if you are in the midst of a stressful personal change such as moving or traveling.

3

Move up baby's regular feeding time by a few minutes so that he will be hungry and ready to accept the bottle but not famished. If he is very hungry and finds an unfamiliar nipple in his mouth, he may refuse the feeding. Hold the bottle at an obtuse angle, rather than horizontally, so that baby is able to suck milk rather than air. Nestle him close while feeding to maintain body contact and look directly into his eyes.

4

Allow your spouse, parent or someone you trust to be careful and efficient give the bottle the first time. Avoid being anywhere near your baby because she is familiar with your scent. When you give her a bottle instead of your breast, she may get confused and start complaining. She will be less fussy when someone else is giving her a bottle. Go outside the house, if possible, because baby can catch your scent even from a distance.