Bottle feeding and paced feeding

Introducing a bottle

Whether you use formula, expressed breast milk, or a combination, bottles can be part of a healthy feeding routine. If your baby is breastfed, many families wait until breastfeeding is well established (often around 3 to 4 weeks) before offering a bottle, and it can help for someone other than the breastfeeding parent to offer the first few.

Paced bottle feeding

Paced feeding lets your baby control the flow and take breaks, more like breastfeeding:

• Hold your baby fairly upright rather than lying flat
• Keep the bottle close to horizontal so milk flows gently
• Let your baby draw the milk rather than pouring it in
• Pause regularly, and stop when your baby shows they are full

How much and how often

Newborns take small amounts often, and appetite grows over the weeks. Follow your baby's hunger and fullness cues rather than pushing them to finish a set amount. Turning away, slowing down, or relaxing the hands often means they are done.

Combination feeding

Many families mix breast and bottle. If you are combining, offering the breast first and topping up as needed can help protect milk supply. A lactation consultant can help you find a balance that works.

When to check with a professional

Contact your pediatrician if your baby consistently refuses feeds, is not having enough wet diapers, chokes or gags frequently during feeds, or you have questions about how much formula or milk your baby needs.