Combination Feeding

Combination feeding is when your feeding is made up of both breastfeeding and bottle feeding. Some parents choose to express breast milk into a bottle and feed a baby from the bottle rather than the breast. Some parents choose to replace some breastfeeds with formula feeds.

Choosing the best bottles for combination feeding can be overwhelming as there are lots of products to choose from, always ensure to look out for a bottle which reduces the risk of symptoms of colic as using a bottle can increase the amount of air a baby is taking in during a feeding. It is also sensible to choose a bottle which can be taken apart and sterilised effectively in between feeds, this will prevent harmful bacteria forming on the bottle. When transitioning a baby from the breast to a bottle the sudden change in milk flow can increase difficulty in feeding, choosing a bottle which enables you to choose a slow flow teat can help with this.

Feeding a baby from a bottle is different to feeding a baby from the breast. Your baby may find this new experience difficult to grasp and take a preference over one or the other. Trying different positions which work best for your baby can help them and you navigate this new experience.

Getting started on your combination feeding routine might feel daunting at first and you might be wondering how to get started. Always remember every baby is different and implementing any change is best done gradually. You could begin with one bottle a day, at a time which suits you. Ensure you monitor your baby’s feeding cues and use these to gauge what your baby needs and when.

Every baby is slightly different in terms of how much formula they will need alongside breastfeeding. Deciding on a schedule will depend on how much breast milk you are already offering. Always look at the guidelines on how much formula to give during a feed. If you are unsure, reach out to your healthcare provider, they will be more than happy to help. It is important to consider babies have lots of growth spurts in the first year and this will mean phases of having a bigger appetite.

Babies also do not always feed because they are hungry, sometimes they will breastfeed for comforting reasons. Learning to understand your babies' feeding cues and their needs will help you understand how much formula you should give alongside your breastfeeding. If you have any concerns always contact a healthcare professional to discuss this.

Navigating a new way of feeding your baby can feel overwhelming and there will almost certainly be some challenges along the way. Getting as much knowledge and information as possible from a healthcare professional will help you feel confident in the steps you are taking to feed your baby.

The amount of formula your baby needs will depend on how much breast milk they are receiving. Aim to satisfy your baby’s hunger while maintaining your milk supply by breastfeeding or offering expressed milk regularly. As your baby grows, their nutritional needs will evolve, so the amount of milk required may vary over time.

Motherhood is a journey of navigating what is right for you and your baby. Every baby and family is different and we all need or want slightly different routines for our feeding, which is perfectly okay. Combination feeding is a flexible approach which allows you to balance breastfeeding and bottle feeding in a way that suits your lifestyle and circumstances. Your emotional well-being is just as important as your baby’s nourishment—be kind to yourself and focus on what makes you and your baby happy and healthy.

Knowledge is power, becoming well informed about what your feeding options are is really important so you feel empowered and confident in the decisions you make. Midwives and healthcare professionals will be well equipped to discuss all your feeding options and help you find a routine which works for you.