As an expectant mother, you’ll hear a lot of debate about using baby formula and feeding your infant with breast milk. This is an important choice a lot of families make, indeed. Yet, while breastfeeding is deemed the best option, it’s not possible for all moms.
Some women don’t feel comfortable pumping milk. Others come back to work early. Is there a way to combine baby formula and breast milk while feeding an infant? Let’s talk about it.
The Baby Feeding Debate
People have various opinions regarding baby feeding. There’s been a heated debate on whether feeding your infant baby formula is the right choice. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) state that breastfeeding your baby for the first four to six months is the healthiest choice.
Unfortunately, mothers’ health is not a point many consider in their statements. And for moms who don’t feel fully comfortable or can’t afford to breastfeed for up to a year, HiPP, European organic baby formula is a perfect aid.
Rightfully so, some women are scared to stop breastfeeding. They think baby formula is not enough to raise a healthy child, or they won’t be able to bond with their offspring. Don’t fret! Any loving mother can create a strong connection with their infant regardless of the feeding approach.
There are many reasons why parents might want to switch between breast milk and baby formula. Doesn’t matter what you choose – this decision is always fair and up to you.
Exploring The Breastfeeding And Formula Combination
Using both breast milk and baby formula to feed your infant has a few names, including supplementing, mixed and combination feeding. Although it’s generally preferred to use breast milk, adding infant formula to the menu is a perfectly safe practice.
When moms have certain health problems or share feeding responsibilities with other family members, supplementing can be a convenient option. Let’s explore other reasons why you’d want to use this approach:
- Child with medical issues. Sometimes, supplementing is prescribed by the doctor in case your baby needs to gain a healthy weight. It happens more often when babies are born prematurely.
- Low breast milk supply. Unfortunately, any woman can experience a low milk supply. Depending on previous breast surgeries and medical conditions, the amount of milk can vary for each mom. That’s a sign to include baby formula in the diet.
- Sharing feeding time with your partner. If your partner wants to partake in baby feeding and bond with the infant, baby formula feeding is a great alternative to pumping breast milk.
- You have twins or triplets. In case you’re lucky to give birth to multiples, breastfeeding can become a real challenge. To use only breast milk, you’ll have to work on building a big amount of milk supply. Opt for a few bottles of baby formula instead.
- You just don’t want to. There’s nothing wrong with putting your comfort first. As a modern mother, you might want to change your diet, avoid pain while suckling and simply take a break. In that case, bottle feeding is just perfect!
Introducing Formula To Your Routine
Given neither your baby nor you have any medical issues, it’s recommended to start supplementing after one month on pure breast milk. One month is enough to decide if you’re comfortable breastfeeding and build up a good milk supply.
To ensure a comfortable transfer to a breast milk and baby formula mix, make sure to:
- Start with just one bottle a day. Since human bodies make breast milk according to demand, it’s better to start with one or a maximum of two bottles daily. Adding baby formula will definitely impact the usual milk supply – keep that in mind.
- Work slowly. Fast transfer can cause problems for both you and your child. As a new mom, you might face issues like breast engorgement and blocked milk ducts. Your infant can get tummy issues, too.
- Take care of your health. When you start bottle feeding, even the slow adaptation process can cause problems. Pumping breast milk, however, can help before those problems arise. That way, you can relieve breast fullness and even store some breast milk for later use.
Given you’re in more pain than usual and pumping doesn’t relieve fullness, contact your lactation consultant or doctor.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right feeding method for your infant, their perfect health is the end goal for any parent. Yet, that doesn’t mean all moms have to endure pain and discomfort. For some, it’s not possible to breastfeed.
If you’re feeling uncomfortable or have medical issues, consider combining breast milk and baby formula. This wholesome harmony is a perfectly safe and healthy alternative to constant breastfeeding. As long as you approach it with caution and adapt slowly, you’ll be a healthy and happy mom!
