This also makes the transition a little easier since the babies are already used to bottle feeding. Under such circumstances, alternating breastmilk and formula become easier.
Yes, there are times when your baby might throw tantrums. In such times, it’s better to step away from the child and let another adult feed then the formula from a bottle. Once the baby cannot see the mother in the room, he/she might decide to have the formula.
While many mothers wait up to 6 months to start the weaning process, it is ideal to consider switching from breastmilk to formula at 3 weeks. By this time the baby gets a hang of breastfeeding and can handle a bottle with ease. Through most mothers may not know, breastfeeding is more difficult than drinking formula from a bottle.
Many mothers go for this combination when they find it hard to express milk. It is a good idea to combine breastfeeding and formula feeding than stopping breastfeeding altogether
Adding Formula To Breast Milk
Yes. It is possible to add formula with breastmilk that too in the same bottle. Many mothers do this to provide that extra dosage of health and nutrition to their child.
However, if you are planning on doing this then you have to follow the instructions of the formula mixing very well. Adding too much formula in breast milk can cause a heavy concentration of nutrition and pose some serious health issues for your baby.
But why do people consider adding formula to breast milk?
- Required sleep: Sometimes mothers mix breastfeed with formula so that they can get extra sleep at night. Such a mixture takes time to digest and thus the babies do not wake up as quickly as they do when they are breastfed.
- Back to work: A combination of breastfeeding with formula often works out well when people have to return to work after a period.
- Low milk quantity: Some mothers stop producing enough milk after their kids pass through the weaning stage. In such cases mixing breastmilk with formula can be an effective option.
Also Read: When Do Babies Sart To Walk?
How To Supplement Breastmilk with Formula
It is important to note that any amount of breastmilk is useful for the child. So if the mother is not producing enough milk, it is okay to supplement it with formula if that works with the mother and child, However, before taking any decision, it is a good idea to discuss it first with a lactation specialist.
Though health specialists suggest feeding the baby with breastmilk right up to the age when they are ready to eat solids, supplementing breastfeed with formula feeding can be opted for. Mothers may do it for various reasons and there is nothing to worry about.
However, the process must be gradual. Ideally, it should start with one feed at a time until the baby is completely used to having a formula. An aggressive drastic drop in breastfeeding will not only affect the baby but also the mother.
Your baby’s health depends on the decisions you make. Thus put in some thought in the process and discuss your plans with the doctor before arriving at any decision.