How do I get my breastfed baby back on the bottle?

Getting Your Breastfed Baby Back on the Bottle: A Comprehensive Guide
Transitioning a breastfed baby back to a bottle can be a challenging experience for many parents. Whether you’re returning to work, need to supplement feedings, or simply want to give your baby the option of bottle feeding, there are effective strategies to help make this process smoother. Here’s a detailed look at how to encourage your breastfed baby to accept a bottle.
Timing is Key
The ideal time to introduce a bottle is when breastfeeding is well established, typically around four weeks after birth. At this stage, your baby is more accustomed to breastfeeding, making them more receptive to trying a bottle. If you wait too long, your baby may develop a strong preference for breastfeeding, making the transition more difficult.
Choose the Right Bottle and Nipple
Selecting the right bottle and nipple is crucial. Opt for a bottle with a slow flow nipple to mimic the breastfeeding experience. This helps prevent your baby from developing a preference for the faster flow of a bottle, which can lead to refusal of breastfeeding altogether. Additionally, consider trying different shapes and materials, as some babies may prefer silicone nipples over latex or vice versa.
Create a Comfortable Feeding Environment
The environment in which you introduce the bottle can significantly impact your baby’s willingness to accept it. Many babies respond well to being held in a skin-to-skin position or in a way that resembles breastfeeding. For instance, you might try holding your baby upright and snugly against your chest, which can provide comfort and familiarity .
Gradual Introduction
Start by offering the bottle when your baby is calm and not overly hungry. This can help reduce frustration and anxiety. You might also consider having someone else offer the bottle, as your baby may associate you with breastfeeding and refuse the bottle if you are the one presenting it.
Experiment with Timing and Temperature
Timing can also play a role in your baby’s acceptance of the bottle. Try offering the bottle during times when your baby is slightly hungry but not starving. Additionally, experiment with the temperature of the milk; some babies prefer it warm, similar to breast milk, while others may accept it at room temperature.
Be Patient and Persistent
It’s important to remain patient throughout this process. If your baby refuses the bottle, don’t force it. Instead, take a break and try again later. Consistency is key; aim to offer the bottle regularly, ideally once a day, to keep the option open.
Monitor Your Baby’s Cues
Pay attention to your baby’s cues during the transition. If they seem distressed or refuse the bottle repeatedly, it may be worth taking a step back and trying again after a few days. Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another.
Conclusion
Getting a breastfed baby back on the bottle requires a blend of timing, the right equipment, and a nurturing approach. By creating a comfortable environment, being patient, and maintaining consistency, you can help your baby adapt to bottle feeding while still enjoying the benefits of breastfeeding. Remember, this transition is a journey, and with the right strategies, you can navigate it successfully.

How do I get my breastfed baby to take a bottle that refuses?

Pop a little breastmilk or formula in the tip of the nipple (only a few drops) and let your little one explore it with their mouth. Hold it up to their mouth for them. Slowly increase how much is in the nipple as you do this across a few days, and work your way up to introducing a bottle once again.

Do lactation consultants help with bottle refusal?

Most of the time our meeting is an evaluation to see what is causing your baby to “refuse” the bottle, where they are with their current bottle skills, and then discussing the step-by-step plan to fix the issue.

How to reintroduce a bottle to a breastfed baby?

To help a breastfed baby take a bottle, introduce it gradually, starting with small amounts of pumped breast milk. Use bottles with breast-like nipples that mimic breastfeeding. Warm the milk slightly and let someone else feed to avoid confusion.

How long does breast refusal last?

Sudden refusal or nursing strike
Nursing strikes usually last between 2 to 4 days, however they can last longer. There are several reasons why your baby may suddenly start to refuse your breast: they are unwell (tummy ache, earache, oral thrush etc.) too little milk.

Which bottle is closest to breastfeeding?

Nuk Simply Natural Baby Bottles
The Nuk Simply Natural Baby Bottles are highly recommended for breastfed babies because they closely mimic the natural flow of breast milk.

Can breast refusal be reversed?

The main point is that baby needs to feel happy again being next to the breast and the best way is to relax with baby next to your breasts for a few days. Most babies eventually become much calmer and can then learn to feed at the breast again.

Why won’t my breastfed baby take a bottle when I go back to work?

Try starting to nurse and then popping off and slip the bottle in. Kind of simulates a “let down” milk phase and gets baby used to the nipple. Also try different flows. Letting baby use it to chew on it and get familiar. Don’t let yourself or baby get upset just try again and again and again…

Is bottle refusal a phase?

Babies refusing their bottle can be a challenging phase, but remember, it’s just that—a phase. As you navigate this time, you’ll need to remain patient and communicate with your pediatrician if your baby is refusing the bottle for long periods.

Can a bottle fed baby go back to breast?

Can I start breastfeeding after my baby has been formula feeding? Yes, many mothers can successfully breastfeed after several weeks of not breastfeeding. This is called relactation. Success will depend on: • how old the baby is • if the baby was breastfeeding before, how long since the baby breastfed.

Can you go back to breastfeeding after bottle feeding?

Can I start breastfeeding after my baby has been formula feeding? Yes, many mothers can successfully breastfeed after several weeks of not breastfeeding. This is called relactation. Success will depend on: • how old the baby is • if the baby was breastfeeding before, how long since the baby breastfed.