How to Supplement Breastfeeding With Formula

While everyone knows breast milk is much better for your baby than formula, and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends infants get nothing but breast milk for the first 6 months of life, sometimes life requires us to supplement breast milk with formula. If you need to start giving your baby formula rather than breast milk, there are some things to keep in mind.

Instructions

1

Start with one feeding a day, if possible, and work your way up to more feedings if you have to. Few babies refuse formula due to the taste or consistency, but if you're concerned, feel free to mix your breast milk with the formula. Continue to give your baby breast milk for the other feedings if possible.

2

Do not suddenly stop breastfeeding if possible. This will be hard on your body, if your body is producing breast milk. Suddenly stopping breastfeeding can lead to painful engorgement, plugged ducts and mastitis. It's better for you and your baby to gradually start supplementing breastfeeding with formula.

3

Ask yourself why you need to give your baby formula. If it's because you can't pump enough breast milk, talk to a lactation consultant about increasing your milk supply. If it's because breastfeeding is going poorly, pump your breasts and feed your baby the expressed breast milk rather than formula.

4

Make sure you're feeding your baby correctly with formula. New research shows the importance of holding babies upright and holding the bottles horizontally while giving them bottles.