Bottle-feeding patterns and tips
Bottle-fed babies tend to feed less frequently than breast-fed ones. This is because formula milk takes longer to digest; it also contains slightly more protein that therefore provides more calories and delays hunger for longer.
Bottle-feeding patterns
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After the first two or three days bottle-fed babies usually settle on a four-hourly regime. They will therefore be having six feeds, probably one less than if they were being breast-fed. When your baby is first born he will probably not take more than 60ml (2floz) milk at each feed but as he gets older the feeds will get bigger and the number of feeds, per day, will be fewer.
Let your baby determine when he's to be fed; never, ever, feed your baby according to the clock. Feed him when he tells you with cries that he is hungry, not when you think he should be. Don't feel that your baby has to finish the bottle at each feed. Like everybody else, your baby's appetite will vary, so if he seems satisfied, but there's a little left in the bottle, don't try to make him take it. He will only get too full and may posset it back. What's more, he may become overfed and fat.
On the other hand, if your baby always seems ravenous, give some extra from another bottle. If he regularly wants more milk, start to add the extra amount at every feed.
Bottle-feeding tips
- Don't feed your baby lying flat; it is very difficult to swallow in this position and your baby may gag or even be sick.
- Never leave your baby with the bottle propped up on a pillow or cushion. Not only is it very dangerous because your baby could choke, but he could become very uncomfortable if he has to swallow a lot of air along with the feed because of the angle at which the bottle's been propped. Moreover, your baby misses out on the cuddling and affection that he should enjoy while he feeds.
- Don't try to force your baby to finish the bottle after he has stopped sucking: he knows when he's had enough.
- Even if you think the milk formula doesn't suit your baby don't change it without first consulting your midwife or health visitor. It is very rare for a brand of milk to be responsible for a baby not feeding well; very rarely a baby is allergic to cow's milk, and you may then have to use a hydrolized (broken down so more easily digested) formula, but always seek medical advice first.
New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard
Posted 30.06.2010
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