Breastfeeding Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing/First Few Days How Much/How Long to Feed? Bottles & Supplementing Special Problems Nursing in Public Weaning
Bottles and Supplementing
Q: I want to breastfeed exclusively, and I'm worried that a nurse will give my baby a bottle of formula in the hospital? What can I do?
A: For most mothers, the breastfeeding experience in the hospital is positive, the nurses are helpful and supportive, and challenges are overcome as a team. But, occasionally, the hospital staff is NOT supportive, and encourages you to give your baby formula. The nurses and doctors may state many reasons that your baby "needs" formula. "Your baby has jaundice and formula will "flush him out". "Your baby is big and needs formula so that he won't starve." "Your baby is small and needs formula to help him gain weight." "Your baby is crying in hunger and wants a bottle." "Your milk is nutritionally inadequate (too weak, not enough fat) for your baby." "Your milk hasn't come in yet, so we need to feed him formula for a few days." "Just one bottle...." And so on and so on. If you are determined to breastfeed, make sure you have family or friends in the hospital to advocate for you and your baby. Make sure you have it in your birthplan, let your doctors and nurses know that you intend to breastfeed. Make up stickers ahead of time that say "I'M A BREASTFED BABY" and stick them on the baby's basinette. And, if possible, do not let that baby out of your sight. Rooming in is encouraged in most hospitals, in order for mom and new baby to spend as much time together as possible. Remember, baby is most active and alert within an hour of birth, so this is the best time to try nursing for the first time.
Q: I would like to supplement my baby with a bottle. When is the best time to do this?
A: If you are dedicated to breastfeeding, it is not recommended to give a baby any kind of artificial nipple (including bottles and pacifiers) before the age of six weeks. Many, many babies have never had anything but the breast. Any supplemental feeding you give your baby that takes the place of a nursing time may disrupt your milk production, because your breasts think the baby does not need that feeding anymore. But, if for some reason, you would like to give your baby a bottle, please wait until after six weeks, in order to give you and your baby enough time establish a successful breastfeeding relationship. It is not necessary to supplement a baby with formula, with water, or with cereal, as the breastmilk contains all the nutritional requirements.