ARTICLE SUMMARY:
- Definition: What is mixed feeding?
- Why choose a special breastfeeding bottle
- The consequences of making the wrong bottle choice
- How to successfully practice mixed feeding?
- Pumping your breast milk
- Proper breast milk storage
- Giving your breastfed baby the first bottle
- Conclusion: Choosing your breastfeeding bottle
Definition: What is mixed feeding?
Mixed feeding is a mode of feeding that consists of alternating between breastfeeding and bottle feeding your baby. This is also referred to as partial breastfeeding. It can be implemented right from birth. You may also want to gently wean your baby and thus consider acquiring a bottle to supplement breastfeeding.
Whether it’s breast milk that you’ve pumped yourself, or powdered formula available at pharmacies and supermarkets, there are plenty of good reasons to practice mixed feeding. This good compromise often allows moms to be able to return to work. It also includes partners, who can provide their babies with the ration of milk they need thanks to bottles.
These shared moments are often very much appreciated and allow them to bond. In addition, the mother can take advantage of this time to relax and have some time for herself. Whatever your main motivation may be, let’s see together which would be the best special breastfeeding bottle.
Why choose a special breastfeeding bottle?
When you choose a special breastfeeding bottle, you enable your child to find the same sensations during feeding that they experience while breastfeeding.
This important aspect helps avoid rejection of the nipple, which may seem less welcoming to your baby. The textures and shapes of nipples are studied and designed to best reproduce the conditions of breastfeeding.
The consequences of making the wrong bottle choice
First and foremost, you need to make sure your baby isn’t too unsettled by this change in feeding method. As previously mentioned, a bottle that isn’t suitable may cause your baby to be fussy. The risk is also high for confusion to develop between the breast and bottle nipple.
This issue can undermine your breastfeeding routine that you’ve established with pride. Therefore, you should choose a bottle that will comfort your baby through its shape and mouthfeel. Also, a poor choice of bottle may lead to increased reflux in your child.
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How to successfully practice mixed feeding?
Pumping your breast milk
To successfully combine breastfeeding and bottle feeding, you can pump your milk with an electric or manual breast pump. Before handling, wash your hands thoroughly and use clean equipment. It is no longer necessary to disinfect. Always clean your breast pump thoroughly after use.
All breast pumps are designed to mimic baby’s suction. Electric pumps will have different available modes (stimulation and expression modes). You can also adjust the expression speed to suit your personal comfort.
There are bottles that can attach directly to breast pumps. This way, you don't need to transfer the milk to another container. The less you handle the milk, the lower the risk of infection.
By pumping your breast milk and offering it to your child via a special breastfeeding bottle, you preserve the unique bond you share with your baby while maintaining the benefits of breastfeeding.
Proper breast milk storage
If you choose to make reserves of your milk, know that you can safely store it in the refrigerator for about three days. Beyond that, it is best not to give the milk to your little one. Never store milk in the refrigerator door.
Freshly-pumped milk can be safely kept at room temperature for about four hours. If, for example, you plan to pump your milk before going to work and someone else will give it to your child when they wake up, you can let it rest in your kitchen without putting it in the fridge! This helps avoid an extra temperature change, which could slightly alter the taste and make it longer to warm up in a water bath.
You can also freeze your milk for up to four months. Never refreeze thawed milk. Discard all remaining thawed milk that your child did not consume. The cost savings are not worth the risk.
Giving your breastfed baby the first bottle
The first time you give your baby a bottle can be a stressful time for you. Don’t worry! Your baby may not drink right away. They might also turn their head or refuse to open their mouth. This is not stubbornness. Keep in mind that this situation is new for both you and your baby.
Here is the best way to begin:
- Once you’ve prepared a small amount of milk (2 oz is enough for the first time), remember to test the temperature of the warmed milk. Warm milk is more likely to be accepted by your child. When you breastfeed, the milk is at body temperature, which is about 98.6°F. Place a few drops on your forearm just above your wrist. The skin there is thin and sensitive, making it the best spot to test the temperature of the milk.
- Position yourself and your baby comfortably on a couch or anywhere you feel at ease. Your baby should not be lying completely flat, but slightly inclined. This helps prevent choking. A helpful tip is to place a few drops of your breast milk, which you can express manually just before offering the bottle, on the nipple to encourage your baby to drink. Babies are very receptive to the scent of breast milk.
- Let your child take the lead. Never force them to drink! You could break the bond of trust between you. Things may not work on the first attempt. Try again later in the day or the next day if it doesn’t succeed the first time.
If you don’t see results within the first weeks, consult a pediatric healthcare professional. There are also specialists for supporting moms and their babies: doulas, midwives, pediatricians… Some are also lactation consultants. Most importantly, trust yourself and trust your baby.
Conclusion: Choosing your breastfeeding bottle
As you can see, to choose your special breastfeeding bottle wisely and ensure successful mixed feeding, you need to most closely recreate breastfeeding conditions by choosing a soft nipple with gentle textures, as close as possible to what breastfeeding offers.
Élhée offers bottles designed perfectly in line with your mixed feeding project. These bottles, guaranteed toxin-free and made of medical-grade silicone, are designed for a gentle transition. Patience and trust are the keys to successful mixed feeding!
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