Combining Breast & Bottle
Going back to work doesn't mean you have to give up breastfeeding.
If you want to carry on breastfeeding, then find
out if there is somewhere you can express and store milk at work.
Expressed milk will keep for 24 hours in a fridge and can also be
frozen. Frozen milk should be used within 3-6 months. The stored
expressed milk can be used to feed your baby while you are at work.
The introduction of partial bottle feeding
will reduce your supply of breastmilk and it will take time and
effort to revert to full breastfeeding. Think about it carefully.
However, combining breast and bottle can
be a really practical option for some mums.
If you are going to breastfeed your baby for some time then it is
best not to introduce bottles of formula until your body is making
plenty of milk. Give it a good six weeks. During this time regular
breastfeeding is vital to get your milk production up and running.
Regular use of formula will persuade your
body that it doesn't need to make so much milk.
This could be exactly what you want if you are planning to combine
breast and bottle or switching from breast to bottle for good.
Introducing a bottle may sound like a good idea
but if your baby has only ever been breastfed she may well have
other ideas!
Every baby is different but these tips might help:
- Try a natural shaped teat.
- Is the Formula the right temperature?
- Pick a time when your baby is really hungry
- Ask your Child Health Nurse for advice
To keep producing milk you need to breastfeed regularly.
So combining breast and bottle means regular breastfeeds every day
and regular bottle feeds. One bottle one day and three the next
will really confuse your body.
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