breastfeeding, but that is not always an option. Whatever your reasons are for not breastfeeding - health, intense discomfort, lack of milk, or personal reasons, give yourself a break, it’s not the end of the world!


Today’s commercially prepared formulas are nutritious and even contain some vitamins and nutrients that breastfed babies need to get from supplements, so if you can’t breastfeed you can still feel confident that your baby is getting what he/she needs.


You will need a number of bottles and teats, as well as sterilising equipment. There is no evidence that one type of teat or bottle is better than any other. All feeding bottles are made of food-grade plastic, but some have shapes or patterns that make them difficult to clean thoroughly. A simple, easy-to-clean bottle is probably best. Make sure your bottles and teats are sterilised and pay close attention to the instructions on the formula milk when making up your bottles, as they do vary.


Be prepared


Get everything you need ready before you start feeding. Find a comfortable position to hold your baby while you’re feeding. You may need to give your baby time. Some babies take some milk, pause for a nap, then wake up for more. Remember, feeding is a chance to feel close to your baby and get to know them.


Keep the teat full


When feeding, keep the teat full of milk, otherwise your baby will take in air. If the teat becomes flattened while you’re feeding, pull gently on the corner of your baby’s


Small Steps 6


Bottle feeding your baby... W


e all know the benefits of


mouth to release the vacuum. If the teat gets blocked, replace it with another sterile teat.


Holding your baby Hold your baby fairly upright for feeds, with their head supported so that they can breathe and swallow comfortably.


Babies and wind Your baby may need short breaks during the feed and may need to burp sometimes. When your baby does not want any more feed, hold them upright and gently rub or pat their back to bring up any wind. This may be a very small amount.


Throw away unused formula Don’t forget to throw away any unused formula or breast milk after the feed.


Go with the flow


Babies differ in how often they want to feed and how much milk they want to take. Feed your baby when they’re hungry, and don’t try to force them to finish a bottle.


Don’t leave your baby


Never leave a baby alone to feed with a propped-up bottle as they may choke on the milk.


Ask for help If you want support or further information on bottle feeding, talk to your midwife, health visitor or other mothers with experience of bottle feeding.


For more information visit www.nhs.uk


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