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Bottlefeeding
Tips.
It is universally
accepted that breastfeeding is
the best option for babies. But if you've decided - for whatever
reasons - to bottle feed your baby, then get on with it and don't feel
guilty about your decision. It is also important not to allow yourself
to be bullied either way.
My experience on the subject caused some upset as I had planned with
great enthusiasm to breastfeed both my children. Unfortunately that was
not to be. After weeks of seeing specialists and nurse councellors,
plus a three day stay in hospital on IV antibiotics with a severe case
of Mastitis it was concluded that our children would be raised by
formula in a bottle. I might add that they are growing up very healthy
and happy.
There are many reasons why a mother decides to bottle feed. Here are
some of the more common reasons why a mother might bottle feed rather
than breastfeed .
1. The mother does not wish to breastfeed. This could be for all sorts
of reasons such as, emotional reasons, social reasons, Physical reasons
including severe pain or continual Mastitis. Whatever your decision,
remember: it's your decision, so stick to it and don't pay any heed to
what others may say: bottle feeding does not make you a bad mother;
breastfeeding does not make you a good mother.
2. Some babies are not able to breastfeeding due to illness or because
of a congenital condition such as being allergic to the mother's milk.
3. The mother may be ill and cannot produce enough breast milk.
4. The mother is going back to work and her workplace does not provide
facilities for breastfeeding or expressing breast milk. Sadly, this is
all too common.
5. The baby may be adopted and the mother may not be lactating.
What
equipment do you need for bottle feeding?
Make no mistake; bottle feeding is not a cheap option. You'll need all
of the following.
1. Plastic bottles.
2. Nipples - these will wear out and need replacing
3. A bottle sterilizer. A top of the range sterilizer can be rather
expensive. We found that self sterilizing bottles worked very well for
us. They make use of a household microwave and minimal other equipment.
4. The infant milk formula. Choosing which one is often a confusing
business. Now this is the expensive bit.
What baby infant formula milk to use?
1. First off, never feed your child cow's milk - or any other natural
milk. Feed your baby an infant milk formula. Any brand is acceptable,
as all pass certain standards as set by all government agencies. The
following are the main types of formula milk you can buy.
2. Standard infant artificial formula – look out for the
label stating: ‘suitable from birth’. This formula
milk is for babies up to 12 months of age. Standard infant artificial
formula is usually cow’s milk based, but may be soy or
goat’s milk based. Soy may be preferred by vegan mothers or
if the baby cannot tolerate cow’s milk protein. However,
unless there are compelling reasons against using cow’s milk
based artificial formula, it is the recommended choice.
3. Follow-on infant artificial formula – the label will say
something like: ‘suitable only for babies over six months.
This is for babies' over 6 months of age - never give your new born
this type of milk.
4. Thickened artificial formula – is sometimes recommended
for babies who frequently ‘posset’ or regurgitate
large amounts after feeding - this is often called reflux. The idea of
thickened formula is that it settles more in the stomach and therefore
stays there! However, thickened artificial formula does not always
solve the problem. You should consult your doctor before using this
type of milk formula. We used this style of formula for our second
child who had reflux for about 6 months. That meant going everywhere
with a cloth over your shoulder to catch the inevitable white spits.
5. Premature infant artificial formula – is specifically
designed for the nutritional needs of a premature baby. Only use this
type of formula after medical consultation and it is not suitable for
healthy term babies.
How to Bottle Feed a Baby?
1. Always test the temperature of the milk before feeding. The old
traditional method of sprinkling a few drops on the under-side of your
wrist is still the best method. It should feel slightly warm but never
hot.
2. Make sure you are sitting comfortably when you feed your child. Your
baby can take some time to finish and a crotchety mother will upset a
child.
3. Your baby should be held in a semi-reclining position with their
head slight tilted back.
4. Try not to force the nipple into your baby's mouth. Instead, do what
breastfeeding mothers are taught to do: stimulate your baby to accept
the nipple by gently touching baby's lips with the nipple.
5. During the feed, make sure that air bubbles are flowing into the
bottle, replacing the milk that is drunk. If you can't see any air
bubbles, while she's feeding, slowly loosen the nipple ring (the part
that attaches the nipple to the bottle) until you can see bubbles. Take
care not to loosen it too much, as this will cause the milk to leak all
over your baby.
6. Take your time; allow for 'pit stops'. During these times, gently
rub your child's back to stimulate burping. It can help to hold your
baby upright against your chest. Beware not to put pressure on baby's
tummy by sitting them up and allowing them to slouch down, else dinner
will likely come right out again
If you decide to bottle feed, then learn by paying close attention to
your baby. By doing so, you will learn all the subtle signals that your
baby gives out. Baby will soon let you know when their tummy is full or
if they want more. Feeding time is a beautiful and emotionally
rewarding time for the both of you.
Wishing
you
the best of Health and Happiness
Article
brought to you by InfantsBabiesToddlers.com
Questions
and comments: info@sleepingbabyhappybaby.com
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