Feeding a baby with a bottle is easy, just choose a formula milk and learn a few simple rules. If you want to start breastfeeding your baby this way, but don't know how to do it, follow the simple steps outlined in this article.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare the Baby Bottle
Step 1. Choose the right formula milk
It must be enriched with iron. There are also low-iron formulas because it is believed to cause flatulence and constipation, although this belief has been disproved by clinical studies. Milk in formula with added iron will make your baby stronger.
- Consult your pediatrician if you have any particular concerns; for example, if many people in your family are lactose intolerant and you are concerned that your child may be too, ask your doctor for information.
- Always check the expiration date of the milk. Never use expired products.
Step 2. Sterilize new bottles
Just dip the bottle into boiling water. Make sure it's not plastic.
Step 3. Prepare the formula milk
Follow the directions on the package. If it is liquid, it may need to be diluted. Most of the formulas are powdered or concentrated, so you have to mix them with water. There are also ready-made products, but they are more expensive.
- If you are unsure about the quality of running water, use bottled water to dilute the formula.
- Use a clean can opener to open the jar. Clean it after each use.
- Always wash your hands before preparing milk or breastfeeding the baby.
Step 4. Heat the milk (if the baby prefers it warm)
Warm milk has no health benefits, but you can if your baby likes it more. To warm the bottle, place it in a bowl filled with hot water or under warm running water.
- Never use the microwave to heat breast milk or formula. It could create bags of boiling milk that would burn the baby's mouth.
- On the market there are appliances specially designed to heat baby bottles.
Part 2 of 3: Bottle Feeding the Infant
Step 1. Take the baby in your arms and hold him in the right way
You need to be able to figure out which position is most comfortable. If she makes a lot of noises while sucking, she is probably swallowing too much air along with the milk. To avoid this, hold it in your arms at a 45 ° angle. It doesn't have to stand completely straight and remember to support your head.
- Tilt the bottle so that the teat and bottle neck are always full of milk.
- Never push the bottle. The baby could drown.
- Do not breastfeed the baby in the supine position. If milk slips into your ear, you risk an infection.
Step 2. How many times does a baby have to eat each day?
In the first few weeks of life, you don't have to worry about setting a specific schedule. In any case, it is advisable to establish timetables during the first two months. At first, all you have to do is give your baby a bottle every two or three hours, especially if he seems hungry.
- Until the newborn reaches 4.5 kg, he will likely eat about 90ml of milk with each feed.
- Do not force the baby if he is not hungry or if he does not want to finish the bottle. As long as he shows interest in milk from time to time, there is no need to force him to eat more.
- If the baby continues to suckle the empty bottle, it means that he is still hungry. Give him some more milk.
Part 3 of 3: Part 3: Clean up after breastfeeding
Step 1. Wash the bottles and teats after you finish breastfeeding
You don't have to sterilize the bottles after the first use. Just wash them in the dishwasher or in the sink full of soapy water.
You can also wash the teat with soapy water
Step 2. Throw away the formula milk left in the bottle
You cannot save it for later use, as bacteria could develop inside the liquid.
Advice
- If you feed your baby with both breast milk and formula, you should start with breast milk and then move on to the other milk. You could also mix them, but you risk wasting breast milk if the baby doesn't drink it all.
- If you use well water or have concerns about your water supply, you can ask for a check and, if necessary, take steps to have it purified.
Warnings
- Too light a formula is not suitable for the growth of the child.
- Too strong a formula can cause dehydration in the baby.
- Do not buy dented, punctured or damaged cans.
