CG Transition from Expressed Breast Milk or Formula to Breastfeeding -

Transition from Expressed Breast milk or Formula to Breastfeeding

Sometimes our breastfeeding journey has a few (or many) bumps in the road. There are lots of reasons why a mother may need to temporarily bottle feed her baby, as a “bridge” over those rough patches. The good news is that with the right tools and support, most babies can successfully transition to direct breastfeeding. We, at Aeroflow, are here to support you! This guide will help you start the process of transitioning your baby from the bottle to the breast.

Before we get started…

When a baby receives a bottle for an extended period of time, these 2 things happen:

They become accustomed to the faster and easier flow of milk from the bottle and this becomes their “normal”.
They become accustomed to the feel and length of the artificial nipple and this becomes their “normal”.

So, a baby that refuses the breast is not refusing or rejecting you! They are objecting primarily to the change in nipple shape and the change in the milk’s flow rate.¹ You are always the best thing for your baby, no matter how they are fed!

Starting the Transition…

Start Paced bottle feeding. Paced bottle feeding is a way to bottle feed a baby that mimics the way milk flows from the breast. It is helpful because it reduces the expectation of a fast, consistent flow of milk and instant gratification.
Use a Slow Flow Nipple. Using a slow flow or “newborn” nipple will also help limit how quickly milk flows from the bottle.²
Ensure you have a robust milk supply. Make sure you are pumping both breasts at the same time for 15-20 minutes each time your baby receives a bottle. The transition back to the breast goes much smoother when your expressed breast milk volume matches or exceeds the volume your baby is drinking from the bottle. (If you struggle with low milk supply despite frequent pumping, stay tuned! There are tips for you later in this article.)

During the Transition

Keep it Positive! The breast should be a positive place for your baby- so if either of you is overwhelmed or frustrated, it’s time to take a break.
Try these strategies first.
- It’s best to offer the breast when your baby is not ravenously hungry. Try when you first see feeding cues. Sometimes it’s helpful to take the edge off his/her hunger by giving a small amount of milk in a bottle first.
- Try offering the breast when your baby is sleepy. Sometimes they may “dreamfeed” and accept the nipple when they are not fully awake
- Remember Skin-to-Skin ? Spending time holding your baby skin-to-skin helps engage their innate feeding behaviors and reflexes. You could also try co-bathing with an older baby.³
Breastfeeding Devices may help⁴
- Nipple Shield: A nipple shield is a thin, silicone, artificial nipple that is placed over your nipple. Many baby’s that are accustomed to the feel of an artificial nipple will accept a nipple shield. Definitely consult with a Lactation Consultant before incorporating a nipple shield into your routine
- Supplemental Nursing System (SNS): An SNS is a device that utilizes a thin tube connected to a bottle. The thin tube is placed alongside the nipple and delivers a supplement of expressed breast milk or formula while baby breastfeeds. This can be helpful for mother’s with a low milk supply or can help increase the flow at the breast to match what your baby is used to from the bottle. This is also best used with help and support from a Lactation Consultant.
Make sure your baby is eating enough. Monitor your baby’s weight and diaper output throughout this transition to make sure they are getting enough milk. An in-person lactation consult can help determine how well your baby is breastfeeding and how much milk they are taking at the breast.

Know that you are not alone in navigating this transition! It will take time and patience to get your baby to the breast in most cases. Please seek help from an experienced Lactation consultant to help support you and walk you through this process.

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, this Aeroflow class expand on some of the topics discussed above:

Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep

To register for this class, log into your portal or click here.

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

https://www.hersourcehealth.com/aeroflow-care-guides/ ‎

References