Question

How can l get my baby to take a bottle?

Answer

Are you trying to move your little one on from breastfeeding? Remember, breastmilk is best for babies and if you decide to stop breastfeeding, or are unable to continue doing so, then only infant formula is a suitable replacement. Using infant formula may affect your supply of breastmilk, so it's difficult to reverse the decision to stop breastfeeding.

 

Babies often find it difficult to accept a bottle after they have been breastfed, as they are used to the feeling of suckling at your breast and a bottle teat will feel different. You may find it helps for someone else to feed your baby with a bottle at first, as they won't expect breastmilk to come from them e.g. your partner or relative. You could also try letting your little one play with the bottle while you hold it, to get them used to how it feels. Never try to force them to take milk from a bottle if they really don't want to though.

 

You could also try using different shaped teats or experimenting with the temperature of the milk - some babies like milk at body temperature while other may prefer it cool.

 

If your baby is 6 months or older, you could try using a cup instead.

 

Good luck and do let us know how you get on.

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