Although there is no doubt that breastfeeding is best for your baby, most babies will get some formula milk some of the time. Breastfeeding is not always possible. You might be an adoptive mother or have a medical reason not to breastfeed. Others might just decide that breastfeeding is not for them or, may breastfeed for a short period after the birth before moving onto formula feeding. If you wish to supplement your breastfeeding with formula milk wait until you have been breastfeeding for three to four weeks to preserve your own milk supply.
During breastfeeding is a wonderful time for mothers to bond and build a unique closeness with their baby. If you move onto formula, perhaps so Dad can take some of the strain, make sure that you continue to feed in the same manner and, that the cuddles your baby got whilst you were breastfeeding continue. Hold your baby close with their head slightly elevated at an angle and make sure that the bottle is upright to minimise the possibility of your baby taking in air whilst feeding.
When you purchase your infant formula you can be confident that it will meet your baby’s nutritional needs in full. The major brands are all very similar and, unless you are told otherwise by your doctor make sure you get one that is fortified with iron. Formula milks come in three basic types;
- Powder (very economical)
- Liquid concentrate (a bit more expensive)
- Ready-to-use (the most expensive)
Unsurprisingly, the formula’s which are ready to use and require little effort are the most expensive. However, don’t feel that you have to buy these to get the best for your baby. If they are mixed properly, in accordance with the instructions the powder concentrates are equally as good.
Water to mix with formula
In most cases you don’t have to use any special water with your formula unless there is a problem with your water supply. If you have doubts check with your doctor and your water company.
How much formula is enough?
New-borns start with a very small stomach which can only hold 1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) of milk for the first week but, this amount will start to increase almost immediately. By the end of the first month your baby will be taking around 120ml per feed every four hours.
Age Amount of feed Frequency of feed
New-born 60-90ml every 3-4 hours
One month 120ml every 4 hours
Two months 120ml 6-7 feeds every 24 hours
Four months 120-180ml 6 feeds every 24 hours
Six months 180-240ml 5 feeds every 24 hours
One year 480-720ml 3-4 feeds every 24 hours
The above table is a guide only as the actual amount a baby takes may vary significantly depending on your baby’s size. Needs and appetites also vary day by day and, month by month. Your baby will feed as often as they need too as long as you learn to read the signs and interpret them properly. Don’t offer the bottle every time your baby cries, especially if it is just after a feed. Remember, babies cry for many reasons. Learn to read if they are hungry or if they just want your attention.
Formula milk moves more slowly through a baby’s digestive system so expect feeds to be less frequent if you have been breastfeeding and switch to formula. Also, the stools may be a little harder and drier.
Remember all babies are individuals so, don’t force-feed if you think they are not drinking enough and, don’t leave them wanting more if they empty a bottle and show signs of wanting more. Also, a baby who often regurgitates after a feed may do better with smaller, more frequent feeds.
Things you should know
- Babies often loose a little weight straight after birth. As long as they continue to feed normally you have no need to worry.
- All equipment used in feeding your baby needs to be washed using warm soapy water and sterilised before use. Most sterilising is now done in a microwave using a sterilising unit.
- Always wash your hands before making up a batch of feed.
- Prepared formula can be stored in a fridge for up to 48 hours if the teat is untouched by the baby. If it has been touched you should throw away the rest of the feed.
- You don’t have to warm the mix but most babies don’t like it straight out of the fridge. Don’t warm milk using a microwave as they can heat the mixture unevenly leaving “hotspots” in the mix.
- Most formula milks are based on cow’s milk so if your family has an intolerance to this discuss it with your doctor before you give it to your baby. There are alternatives based on Soya.
Be aware of the following
- Unused formula “goes off” very quickly and the teats can be like magnates to bacteria. Throw away any unused milk and always sterilise your equipment.
- Evaporated milk is the wrong balance for baby’s digestive system and can put unnecessary stress on your babies guts and kidney’s.
- Do not use cow’s milk until your baby is at least 12 months old.
- Don’t add honey to anything. It can contain spores which can cause serious illness in children under 12 months.
- Don’t dilute formula. If you are struggling financially talk to you health visitor who will be able to help.
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