How to Bottlefeed a Baby

Although breastfeeding is the recommended method for feeding your baby, there are many reasons that you might not be able to breastfeed. Feeding your baby with infant formula is the best alternative.Experts agree that you can bottle-feed your baby whenever she is hungry, just as in the case of breastfeeding. Whichever formula you choose, make sure to follow the directions so your baby will get a nutritious meal.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Choose a formula based on your baby's health. Consult with your doctor on recommendations for formulas. Cow's milk-based formulas are available with added iron and treated by heating methods to make the protein more digestible. Soy formulas contain proteins and carbohydrates from cow's milk-based formulas. There are also formulas made specifically for infants with certain disorders or diseases.

2. Decide on the amount and the schedule of feedings. In the beginning, feed whenever your baby is hungry. Newborns drink about 2 to 3 ozs. of formula each feeding. The interval between each feeding section is three to four hours. The amount of milk fed each session increases by 1 oz. each month after birth.

3. Wash your hands carefully with soap and water before preparing formula. Clean the top of the formula can. Make sure that nothing contaminates your baby's meal.

4. During a feeding session, get skin to skin contact with your baby. Keep your baby close to you. This will give her a sense of security and facilitates bonding with your baby. Switch arms to avoid numbness.

5. Give your baby time. Your baby may keep sucking although the bottle is already empty. This may mean your baby's still hungry. Make some more formula next time. If the baby does the sucking just for satisfaction, make the same amount of formula, using a nipple with smaller holes next time.

Resources

• Guidelines for bottlefeeding