Feeding baby bottle in crib

Risks of Bottle Feeding in Bed – Cleveland Clinic

When you’re an exhausted parent with a demanding little one at home, anything that saves time or offers you a few extra minutes of super dreamy sleep probably seems like an idea worth trying.

That explains the temptation to leave a bottle of formula or breast milk in your child’s crib. If they wake up hungry, they can just feed themselves. Self-service, right?

Well, you might want to rethink that plan.

A baby’s access to a bottle in bed creates a laundry list of potential problems — and we’re not talking about cleaning spills on bedding or PJs. There are health concerns to consider, as pediatrician Heidi Szugye, DO, IBCLC explains.

5 reasons not to give an infant a bottle in bed

So, how much harm can a bottle of formula or milk really do to your child if they grab it for a late-night feeding? Far more than you’d think, says Dr. Szugye.

Let’s look at five reasons why bottles don’t belong in your baby’s bed.

1. Choking hazard

Small airways in young children make them prone to choking or gagging while drinking — especially if the fluid flows out faster than they can swallow.

If you’re holding your baby and feeding them, you can prop them up and take corrective action to help clear their airway if they start choking or coughing, notes Dr. Szugye. (A few gentle pats on the back usually help.)

But if your baby is alone and lying on their back in bed, they may be unable to adjust on their own. That may lead to them breathing in the fluid and choking.

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This is also the reason why you shouldn’t leave an infant alone with a propped-up bottle.

On a side note, adding rice cereal to a bottle makes the fluid thicker and increases the risk of choking. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against using rice cereal in a bottle as a sleep aid.

2. Tooth decay

If your infant dozes off in their crib while sucking on a bottle, odds are that they nod off with some formula or milk still in their mouth. Whatever they were drinking may pool around any just-emerged teeth.

That’s bad news for those little pearly whites: “There’s a higher risk for tooth decay if a baby falls asleep with formula, milk or some other drink containing sugar in their mouth,” says Dr. Szugye.

The reason? Sugary fluids that linger in the mouth break down into an acid that attacks tooth enamel, leading to deterioration. (Learn more about caring for your baby’s teeth.)

3. Ear infections

Babies who drink from a bottle in bed may also be more at risk of getting an ear infection. It’s a byproduct of our anatomy — specifically, the eustachian tube connecting your middle ear to the back of your throat.

If a baby drinks while lying flat on their back, the fluid may flow into their eustachian tubes and to their middle ear to cause an infection.

4. Future wheezing and asthma

Research shows a link between bottle feeding in bed and the development of wheezing and asthma in early childhood. (The study focused on children with a family history of asthma or allergies.)

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5. Feed-to-sleep association

Making a bottle part of your child’s in-bed sleep routine can strengthen their feed-to-sleep association. You’re basically turning a bottle into a comfort object that becomes required for ZZZs.

That dependency can make your baby’s eventual night weaning and sleep training more difficult. “It’s best to just not to start the habit of leaving a bottle in the crib,” advises Dr. Szugye.

Feeding and bedtime

So, what should you do to make sure your baby’s belly isn’t grumbling at bedtime? Dr. Szugye recommends feeding them about 15 minutes before they go to sleep as part of their bedtime routine.

“Keep them upright after they feed before putting them down on a flat surface to sleep,” says Dr. Szugye. “That’ll get you past the time when they might spit up and avoid exacerbating any reflux.”

And when it comes to providing them a grab-and-snack option for later, the recommendations are clear: “You never want to put a bottle in the baby’s bed with them,” stresses Dr. Szugye.

To hear more from Dr. Szugye on this topic, listen to the Health Essentials Podcast episode “Babies and Bedtime.” New episodes of the Health Essentials Podcast are available every Wednesday.

Know the dangers of bottle feeding in bed

Not many parents realize the dangers of bottle-feeding a baby in bed. Read on to find out why you shouldn’t put your baby to bed with a bottle in her mouth. These facts are not to frighten you away, but to help you be aware of the harms that a seemingly innocuous task of bottle-feeding your baby in bed might cause her.

Danger of Choking

Bottle feeding in bed works very well for you and your little one. You can relax while your little one is propped up in his crib as you hold the bottle with a steady stream of milk gushing into his tiny mouth. But there is a glitch here – more of a potential danger. Sometimes the liquid flows fast, and your baby is still tiny and cannot swallow milk at this rate. This is when there is a risk of the baby getting choked. There is also a threat of milk entering the wind-pipe, or even the lungs and making the situation worse.

Danger of Suffocation

Are you using all those soft, brightly- coloured pillows as props in your baby’s crib when you give him the bottle? Your little one might love playing with all those attractive colours when awake, but once he falls asleep, there is a risk that he might wriggle and shift, and as a result bring all those soft props upon his face and nose, causing suffocation.

Risk of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay does not sound as scary as the previous two, yet it has its downfall. You wouldn’t want your baby’s smile to suffer. In addition, once he starts eating solids, you would want him to bite, munch, chew, all those power-packed nuts which you stock exclusively for him. Your baby might fall asleep before he swallows the last gulp of milk. The sugar in the formula would coat your baby’s gums and tiny teeth. Of course the teeth are only temporary, but according to American Dental Association, they also provide space in his mouth for permanent teeth. You wouldn’t want this space to be permanently damaged.

Risk of Ear Infection

An ear infection is painful and can make your baby cranky. He is helpless because he is unable to tell you about his aches. As a parent or caregiver, you might feel as helpless as him because you do not know why your little one is crying. Did you know bottle feeding in bed is one of the primary causes of ear infection? This is because sometimes your baby might not swallow the milk down to the last gulp. This last gulp of milk might pool inside his mouth, which might steadily trickle into his ear causing bacteria to get into his Eustachian tubes.
However, all these risks should not deter you from feeding your baby with a bottle. All you need to do is exercise a little caution and take a few precautionary measures:

Never let your baby fall asleep with the bottle in his mouth.
Always wipe his mouth dry after every feed.
Make sure the nipple hole is of the right size.
Never forget to burp your baby after every feed.

Remember, bottles by themselves never pose as potential hazards for your baby. It’s the way the bottle is held, and the way the milk gushes into his mouth that creates risks for him and nightmares for you. Follow the above steps and ensure that your baby is always well-fed and happy, because these moments with your little one are never going to return. Make the best of bottle feeding and create a bond with your baby.

How to eat from a bottle. Feeding in the crib

The optimal type of nutrition for a newborn is mother's milk. Unfortunately, it often happens that a mother cannot feed her baby - this may be due to her illness or too early cessation of lactation. Adapted mixtures come to the rescue. The mother of the baby and other family members should learn how to properly bottle feed.

In some cases, the source of nutrition for the baby is not mother's breast, but a bottle of formula. It is important to learn how to give a bottle correctly so that the baby is full and does not swallow air with food

What are the types of bottles?

Today, all bottles offered in stores are divided into two main types: plastic and glass. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of each type.

Choosing glassware for feeding, you guarantee yourself the purchase of durable and environmentally friendly products. True, with glass there is a danger of breaking a fragile bottle, and glass bottles are also heavier.
Plastic options dishes are lighter and there is no danger of breaking them. It is likely to buy a low-quality plastic product containing harmful substances, so when buying, pay special attention to the presence of a certificate that guarantees the absence of harmful components. Try to buy well-known brands to minimize possible risks.
The bottle must be marked in millimeters. The scale will help control the amount of formula that the baby ate.
Teat material, like the bottle itself, varies. There are rubber and silicone nipples. Which type is more convenient is up to you and your child to decide.

Bottles and teats must be washed with baby dish soap and sterilized. Sterilization can be done in a double boiler, microwave oven or using a special device.

Mix selection and preparation process

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A pediatrician will help you choose the right mixture, based on the characteristics of your child's body, because there is no optimal mixture - everything is selected individually. The right choice of mixture guarantees excellent digestion and a good mood for your baby.

For the preparation of the mixture, it is advisable to take pre-boiled and cooled water. It is recommended to do all the manipulations strictly before each meal:

Boil the water and cool it, while the cooling time should not exceed 30-40 minutes.
Fill the bottle with water up to the indicated mark.
Place dry formula in a bottle. Strictly adhere to the proportions indicated by the manufacturer on the jar with the mixture. Exceeding the amount of powder for a thicker and more saturated mixture is unacceptable. The baby needs not only high-calorie food, he also needs water, so strictly follow the instructions (see also:).
After capping the bottle, shake vigorously until the powder dissolves.
Put a nipple on the bottle and check the temperature of the mixture. The optimal temperature is measured very simply: put one drop on the inside of the wrist and follow the sensations: cold or heat will tell you that the mixture is too cold or overheated. If you need to heat the mixture, use a water bath. The microwave does not guarantee uniform heating of the mixture.

It is recommended to feed the baby with freshly prepared formula, and you can store ready-made “food” for no more than half an hour. If the baby did not eat the portion measured to him at the first feeding, you do not need to supplement him with this mixture after one or even two hours.

Regardless of the manufacturer of infant formula, there are a number of general preparation rules: the balance of water and dry matter must be observed, no lumps should be left, the temperature of the mixture should be pleasantly warm

Feeding technique for both mom and other family members, but everyone should know how to do it right. The technique is very simple and affordable.

The question is often asked - from what position is it better to feed the baby? Mom can choose any position that will be comfortable for her and the baby, but the best option is to imitate breastfeeding.

To bottle feed a newborn, place the baby on your knees with your head resting on the raised forearm of one hand. The other hand will hold the bottle.
A child who has mastered the sitting position can eat his formula on a high chair (recommended reading: ). Note that many children still prefer to eat while sitting or lying on their mother's arms.
Never leave your baby alone, even if he is already confidently holding the bottle himself.
Don't let your baby fall asleep with a bottle as this can cause the baby to choke.
While you are feeding at night, the most comfortable position for the baby is lying down. Be sure to raise your head with your hand or place a pillow.

When the baby is eating, make sure that the nipple is always full and does not get air into it - this can provoke colic and spitting up. If you notice an air bubble in the nipple, change the position or angle of the bottle.

Some air swallowing is unavoidable, so take occasional breaks during feeding to allow air to escape. Achieving a burp is simple: lift the baby to an upright position or just slightly raise your head.
Be careful when choosing teat holes. A monthly baby should receive his first mixture in drops. If it pours in a stream, the baby will choke or choke.
Make sure your baby's head is level and not tilted back or tilted forward. An incorrect position can cause milk to enter the windpipe, and this is extremely dangerous.

Sleep feeding is dangerous

Never feed a sleeping baby - wake him up if necessary before offering formula.

It is absolutely not recommended to leave the bottle in the baby's crib during sleep, as the baby will acquire a bad habit, and in the worst case, it may choke when breastfeeding, so there is a danger that the baby will choke.

Never leave a sleeping baby with a bottle. He must learn that the time for eating is not related to the time for sleeping. Weaning a child from such falling asleep will be much more difficult in the future. You can learn the rules of feeding and the algorithm of actions using video lessons. With them, you can quickly master the correct technique.

The main thing is a positive attitude

The mother's mood and emotional state are just as important during artificial feeding as during breastfeeding. Children are very sensitive to their mother's feelings.

Starting feeding your little one, try to tune in a positive mood and drive away all unpleasant thoughts so that communication with your little one is pleasant and joyful. Take a comfortable position and enjoy the moments of silence and tranquility.

Sit comfortably and stock up on wet wipes in case your toddler spills some milk or burps. Talk to the baby while feeding, gently stroke the back - let your baby feel warm and cared for. Since it is not possible to feed the baby with mother's milk, it will be quite useful to give him a little more tenderness and communication with his beloved mother.

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There is no better food for a newborn baby than than breast milk. But sometimes breastfeeding is contraindicated for the mother.

Mother's milk has an optimal composition, it contains substances help your baby fight infections strengthening his immunity.

However, unfortunately, situations often arise in which it is impossible to continue breastfeeding:

- mother's illness, when you have to take medication affecting the quality of breast milk;

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— mother's going to work;

- lack of breast milk.

Breast milk can be expressed and bottle fed depending on the situation; transfer the baby to artificial feeding; Alternate breastfeeding with bottle feeding. In each of these cases, the mother is faced with the question, how to bottle feed a baby.

Bottle feeding technique

some basic rules must be observed:

- Try to give your baby warm milk or formula - most babies prefer to be fed warm. To check the mixture temperature, drop it on the inner surface of your wrist - the feeling should be comfortable.

- If you are formula feeding your baby, be sure to check the expiration date on the box and carefully follow the instructions for its preparation.

- Choose a position for bottle feeding in which it will be convenient for you, and child.

- The pacifier should be pressed lightly against the baby's lower lip, So, so that he opens his mouth wide enough. Follow that so that the tongue is located at the bottom, under the nipple. If the baby's lips close around the wide part of the nipple, closer to the base means he took the pacifier correctly.

- Do not rush the child and do not force him to eat the whole portion: some children eat quickly, others are slow and some like to eat intermittently. Be patient.

— Always hold the bottle in a tilted position: this helps the nipple fill with milk or formula, which means the baby will not swallow air. Watch out so that the nipple does not get clogged and flattened. If this happened change the pacifier.

- After how the child ate, pour out the rest of the mixture, so as not to provoke the occurrence of a bacterial infection.

- After eating, gently pat the baby on the back: this will help to remove the swallowed air.

We hope that this bottle feeding technique will help you and your baby.

Bottle selection

First, what you need to pay attention to - the material, from which the bottle is made. Glass bottles are usually heavier than plastic and besides, beat easily. But they have a longer service life, while plastic bottles can become cloudy or crack fairly quickly. But you can’t do without a plastic bottle on a walk and when the baby begins to learn to hold it on his own.

Another important nuance is that when choosing a bottle, be sure to pay attention to the presence of clear divisions, to help you determine the volume of breast milk or formula.

Most baby bottles, produced by well-known manufacturers, have anti-colic protection. They are equipped with various mechanisms, which prevent the penetration of air into the baby's stomach and thereby reduce the likelihood of colic.

Bottles Philips AVENT have a unique one-piece valve in the nipple skirt, which lets air inside and prevents the formation of a vacuum. This valve is easy to clean and does not break, and due to the lack of vacuum, the baby can suck in his usual rhythm, which makes bottle feeding closer to breastfeeding.

For bottles Dr. browns developed a special ventilation system, which does not allow the contact of air penetrating into the bottle with the liquid. As the baby suckles and the liquid subsides, the bottle is filled with air and there is no vacuum.

Availability of a special valve in Nuby bottles also prevents air from mixing with formula or milk, thereby relieving the child of gastric colic.

Just as important is choosing the right teat. Most nipples today are made from latex or silicone. Silicone nipples are odorless more durable they are easy to disinfect. The second important point when choosing a nipple is the intensity of the flow. For the smallest, it is better to choose a nipple with one or two small holes, for an older child - with several holes.

Some manufacturers offer large diameter nipples, imitating the shape of the female breast, which helps to prevent rejection of the breast with mixed feeding.

Bottle and teat care

If the child is under one year old, It is important to follow the rules of hygiene when bottle feeding. The immunity of young children is still quite weak, to successfully resist all infections. If you do not pay enough attention to the processing of the bottle, nipples and other items for feeding, the baby may have an upset stomach or diarrhea.

Wash items thoroughly with soap and warm water after each feeding. and before the next feeding - sterilize, to remove all bacteria from the surface. For sterilization, it is best to use bottled or clean filtered water - this will help to avoid the appearance of plaque on the dishes. You can use one of three methods of sterilization.

In some cases, mothers have to switch to artificial feeding. There may be several reasons for this: there is not enough breast milk or it has completely disappeared, the mother needs to undergo treatment that is incompatible with breastfeeding, the difficult financial situation in the family, when the mother has to go to work early and, as a result, the inability to continue breastfeeding, and It happens that even the baby is adopted. Sometimes mothers switch to or.

A bottle comes in handy in such situations. Then the father, grandmother or nanny can feed the child when the mother needs to go away on business. Every young and inexperienced mother is concerned about such issues as choosing a bottle, nipples, how to properly feed a newborn with a mixture, how to properly hold a baby after feeding, whether you always need to feed your baby lying down. We will help you figure it all out with the help of our article.

Difficult choice

The first thing you need to do is choose the right bottle. In stores now there is such a choice that the eyes run wide. Let's look at a few options. The bottles are glass and plastic. Made of glass, they are more durable and safe, but heavy, there is a risk of breaking such containers. When choosing plastic, pay attention to the absence of harmful compounds, do not hesitate to ask the seller for a product certificate.

Buy bottles from reputable brands. They can also vary in shape, they come with a narrow wide neck, in recent years they have begun to produce anti-colic bottles, which are distinguished by a curved shape. Such bottles do not allow air to pass inside, which significantly reduces the risk of colic in a newborn. In addition to the shape and material, feeding bottles also differ in volume. A newborn does not need a large container, 120 ml will be enough for him.

As the child grows, the volume of the mixture will, of course, need to be increased, so a 250 ml bottle will have to be purchased. Also be sure to look at the division scale in millimeters. It will help you when setting the exact amount of the mixture. It is better to buy several bottles at once, because in addition to the mixture of the newborn, you need to drink some water. Secondly, you need to choose a pacifier. This is easier to deal with, because they come in two types: silicone and latex. We recommend buying different nipples, because your baby will immediately show a preference for one of them. The size of the pacifier can be chosen based on the age of the child, it is usually indicated on the packaging.

Hygiene rules

After purchasing the bottle, it must be sterilized along with the teat. In our age of high technology, this is no longer a problem. There are special sterilizers, and some multicookers have such a function. But if you think that these devices are unnecessary or you have a limited budget, then you can use a saucepan of water in the old fashioned way. Both bottles and nipples should be thoroughly rinsed after each feeding. On the shelves of stores now there are various types of soap and gels for washing children's dishes, special brushes for hard-to-reach places. Before each feeding, it will be correct to pour boiling water over the bottle and nipple. Sterilization is not so necessary every time, but still do this procedure from time to time. And remember that nipples need to be changed every three months.

Cooking

The choice of mixture is best entrusted to a pediatrician, but we recommend that you also look at reviews on the Internet and carefully study the composition. To prepare the mixture correctly, you need to boil and cool the water. First, pour the required amount of water into the bottle, then warm it up. You can heat in a water bath or in the microwave. Only then bring the mixture. Usually baby food is sold with a measuring spoon and detailed instructions. For example, 30 ml of water should be added to one spoonful of the mixture. The water should not be cold or scalding. To check the temperature, you can drop the mixture on the inside of your wrist.

Mixture must be prepared immediately before feeding the baby, because half an hour after preparation it is no longer suitable. We also advise you to follow the diet. A newborn should be fed with a mixture at least every two to three hours. If your baby has time to get hungry earlier, then you can increase the portion of the mixture. You will see, next time the child will ask for food later. No need to wake up a newborn at night by the hour to feed, as some pediatricians advise. When he gets hungry, he will wake you up crying. Do not prepare the mixture in advance, remember the expiration date of the prepared food. It's better to ask dad to help run the formula while you rock your baby.

Baby position

It's not just the choice of bottle or formula that needs to be taken seriously. You need to know in what position to feed the baby correctly. Pay attention to the position of the child during and after feeding. It is best to keep the baby (in a lying position) in a crib or in your arms. Of course, at night it is not necessary to take a newborn in your arms so as not to frighten away his sleep. In the supine position, raise the baby's head (you can put it on a thin pillow) and give a bottle of formula. It is better to hold the bottle by yourself, do not leave it uncontrolled, because it can roll away, besides, there is a danger that the baby will choke. If your baby is already big enough, then, of course, it is not necessary to feed him only lying down. You can put him in a highchair in a reclining or sitting position if the child can sit confidently. By this time, your baby will have already learned to hold the bottle on their own, both sitting and lying down. To protect your baby from colic, we have just a couple of tips:

Be sure to tilt the formula bottle so that no air enters the nipple.
While your child is very small and can only eat lying down, after feeding, be sure to hold him in a column for 5-10 minutes to let out excess air.

Conclusion

Also remember that the child always feels the mother's mood and adopts her emotional state. Therefore, feed your baby only with a good and benevolent attitude. It's great if you sing songs to him, tell him stories or just talk to him during feeding.

A newborn baby requires special attention from the mother, and the most important thing for her during this period is to provide him with attention, affection and good nutrition.

However, not a single parent knows how to feed a baby so that he gets the maximum of useful substances during meals. Especially if it's her first.

So, how to breastfeed a newborn, but how about formula? Which positions are more comfortable for feeding, and which ones are better not to use? Finally, what is the correct way to apply the baby to the breast or to the bottle, and are there any differences in the feeding techniques of infants and artificial mothers?

Rules for breastfeeding

Mother's milk is a natural source of nutrients that builds the baby's immunity and helps to establish contact with a loving mother during feeding.

However, even such a seemingly simple procedure as breastfeeding requires care and compliance with a number of rules.

Cleanliness is the guarantee of health!

The first thing any mother should do is to keep her breasts clean: before each feeding, wash her hands with soap, and then wash her breasts with boiled water and wipe with a towel.

Attaching the baby to the breast

A newborn baby is attached to the mother's breast immediately after birth. However, not every mother correctly approaches this issue from the technical side, causing herself a lot of pain.

To avoid such troubles, it is necessary to follow a certain breastfeeding technique.

Step by step process of breastfeeding

The baby lies in his arms with his body to his mother, while his head and neck are in line: this way milk flows freely into the stomach.
The child does not need to forcefully open his mouth: when approaching the nipple, the newborn, smelling food, does it voluntarily.
If the baby does not want to open his mouth, it is worth touching his lips with the lower part of the areola.
The nipple is positioned in the baby's mouth so that the dark circle of the areola remains visible.
It is necessary to position the breast so that it does not interfere with the breathing of the baby during feeding.
After feeding, keep the baby upright until burping occurs.
If you feel pain, you do not need to endure discomfort: take the breast and try to give again, but this time correctly.

Features of breastfeeding

The method of feeding on demand, which has been actively practiced over the past decade, has a beneficial effect on the development of the baby and increases mother's lactation.
In the first days, the baby may ask to eat 10-15 times a day, and after 2 weeks the number of feedings will be reduced to 6-8 times.
Until six months, any baby needs mandatory feeding at night.
It has been scientifically proven that the last drops of milk you get during breastfeeding are not only the tastiest, but also the healthiest.
In order for a child to develop fully and without deviations, it is necessary to breastfeed him up to 1.5-2 years.
A newborn suckles both breasts in turn - this is how milk is produced in the amount necessary for him.
Until the age of 5-6 months, a breastfed baby is full of milk, so it is not worth introducing complementary foods before this period.

What should not be done while breastfeeding?

Do not wash your breasts often, because frequent rinsing of the nipples loses the protective fat layer. To keep the mammary glands clean, it is enough to take a shower 1-2 times a day.
Give the baby water. It is allowed to take a teaspoon of boiled water every knocking - in the event that the mother's milk is too fatty and the baby has constipation.
Do not use pacifiers or bottle feed your baby until 6 months of age.

Do not express milk after each feeding, it is better to take small breaks.
Do not give a newborn sweet tea, as it contributes to the development of anemia.

Breastfeeding positions

Breastfeeding in bed, in a chair, lying on your side and sitting - what is the best position for breastfeeding and why?

Feeding while sitting

Hanging position

Mom sits on all fours and gives the baby a breast, as if hanging over the baby. So that the little one does not choke on milk, it must be put on a barrel.

This posture helps the mother's milk to flow out of the central and lower lobes of the breast. In addition, it is well suited for feeding babies transitioning to breastfeeding after a bottle.

Cradle position

Mom sits with her legs tucked under her, and the baby lies with his head on the crook of her elbow. With one hand, the woman holds the back of the child, turning him with his stomach towards her.

This position is well suited for feeding both newborn babies and those who are already six months old.

Feeding lying down

Under arm position

The mother lies on her side, leaning on her hip, and the baby lies on the side of her, sitting on a pillow. The baby's head is held in the palm of your hand.

The pose helps clear the breasts of milk from the lower and lateral lobes and is excellent for women who have had a caesarean section.

Lower chest lying position

Mother and baby lie on their sides, facing each other. With one hand, the nurse holds the baby by the head, and with the other she gives him the breast.

With the help of this position, the baby eats his fill at night, while the mother does not get out of bed with him.

“Lying from the upper chest” position

The mother lies on her side, propping her head with her hand, and the baby lies, “holding” the support with a small pillow.

This position helps to change breasts during feeding and is good for preventing congestion.

Baby on top of mom

Mom is lying on the bed, the baby is sitting on her stomach.

This position perfectly reduces the rate of “ejection” of milk, so that the baby does not choke when feeding.

Feeding while standing

“Standing motion sickness” position

The mother takes the baby in her arms, turning it towards her, and gives him the breast. At the same time, she can rock the baby in her arms.

This position is very soothing to babies and is considered ideal for breastfeeding babies of all ages.

“On the hip” position

Mom sits the baby on her hip and, holding him by the back, stands, shifting the emphasis to the leg bent at the knee.

This is a good opportunity to try something new if you're tired of all the other poses.

Six important rules for bottle feeding

Today, a person who is far from the principles and issues of nutrition of children believes that you can master the intricacies of feeding in an instant: go to the Internet, read tips, buy a bottle, pour water into it - and you're done!

But even such a simple thing as feeding a newborn from a bottle should not harm the health of a toddler. Even loving mothers make a number of mistakes in this regard, which we will try to prevent.

Feeding bottle

Formula bottle available in plastic or glass. In the first version, it is lighter, in the second - more durable. Remember that on any of its varieties there should be divisions for dosing the contents.

Wash clean!

The bottle must be thoroughly washed both before and after feeding.

Mix temperature

Milk formula should not be hot or cold, only warm, close to room temperature. You can easily test this by dropping cooked milk on your wrist.

Warm up slowly

You can heat the mixture in a pot of boiled water or in an electric heater. Do not use the microwave to heat the mixture!

Correct nipple

If the opening of the nipple is too large, the milk from the bottle will quickly spill out, and the baby will not eat and will choke. From the "hole" of the correct size, the newborn drinks the mixture in 15-20 minutes.

Processing and sterilization

The teat must be processed both before and after feeding. This can be done in a microwave oven, a sterilizer, or simply by boiling it.

Features of formula feeding

Formula feeding is carried out in a comfortable position (this is how eye contact is established between mother and child).
The bottle is positioned horizontally so that the mixture does not flow out of it too quickly.
The tilt angle changes as the baby drinks the formula. If it is too small, air enters the stomach and provokes hiccups.
The baby should be fed slowly, giving him the opportunity to pause.
After the newborn has eaten, he must burp air. To do this, you need to put the baby on your knee, placing your back to yourself and supporting your chin.
Do not feed a newborn in a horizontal position (when he is lying down) - this exposes him to the risk of choking.

Do not leave your baby alone with a bottle.
Only one person should feed the baby, not a whole guild of advisers.

How much formula does a baby need?

A newborn baby eats formula at least 6 times a day with an interval of 3 hours. At night, the pause between feedings is up to 6 hours. At 5 months, complementary foods are introduced into his diet, and the number of feedings with mixtures is reduced to 5 times a day.

Amount of mixture: daily volume

Age up to 10 days: calculated by the formula: 70-80 ml * R (number of days lived).

This means that:

from 10 days to 2 months: the volume of the mixture is 1/5 of body weight;
2 to 4 months: formula volume is 1/6 body weight;
4 to 6 months: 1/7 weight;
6 months to 1 year: daily volume is 1/9 of body weight.

Positions for bottle feeding

If the mother is not in a very comfortable position, during feeding the baby may begin intestinal colic, he will swallow excess milk and, as a result, slowly gain weight.

A comfortable position for feeding becomes the key to his health and peace of mind.

“Face to face”

The mother is sitting and the child is on her lap (his butt is on his stomach and his head is on his elbow).

"Sitting"

Mom sits with her back against the headboard and legs bent. The child lies on one of her thighs and leans on the other.

Feeding in these two positions is very convenient when the baby is still small, but over time it becomes quite problematic to keep the baby gaining weight in this position.

"Side"

The child lies on his side, and under his head he has a pillow or a sheet folded several times. Mom sits next to him on a chair and gives formula from a bottle, which she holds at a 45-degree angle.

“Self”

Babies over 7 months old can hold a bottle in their hands, but should never be left alone while eating. Just give your baby a bottle while sitting in a chair or on your lap.

Summing up

Feeding a newborn is a complex science and a long journey that any mother goes through with her baby. However, it is on this path that a woman discovers new “horizons” for herself: comfortable postures, rules for breastfeeding and formula feeding, a baby feeding regimen and other important wisdom of a subtle, sometimes responsible, but such a pleasant science!

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All parents are obliged to follow the rules of feeding, because the child's health, sleep and mood depend on it. It is necessary to prepare the devices and the mixture with special care before use, to know the postures for holding the baby, to approach the process with attention and responsibility.

Newborn feeding rules

all baby utensils must be sterilized;
hold the newborn and the bottle in the correct position;
the baby must fully grasp the nipple;
take a break every 5-10 minutes;
the baby is held in a "column" after feeding.

Preparation for feeding

Instruments must be washed and sterilized. For feeding use a bottle and a nipple.

Please note that not all plastics and rubbers are suitable for certain applications.

Sterilization options:

Boiling water. All disassembled devices are placed in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
Sterilizer. The devices are placed in a steam sterilizer for 8-12 minutes.
Microwave oven. The devices are placed in a container with cold water or a special bag. Cover the container with a lid, turn on the microwave for 6-8 minutes.
Antiseptic tablets. A tablet is thrown into cold water to obtain a solution. Instruments are dipped there, covered with a lid, removed after 30 minutes.

Feeding bottles

Plastic, glass and disposable products can be found in the shop. From bottles fed not only the mixture, but also breast milk. Features of plastic products:

Pluses: they weigh little, do not break.
Cons: not long service life, not all models can be boiled.

Glass bottles are a little more expensive, but for good reason. Short description:

Pluses: long service life, can be boiled.
Cons: often break when dropped, heavy weight.

Special disposable containers are available. Features of such products:

Pros: light weight, only the teat needs to be washed and sterilized.
Cons: a lot of waste, you need to buy containers often.

Choose the right product for your baby's age, weight and needs. On each pack, manufacturers indicate the composition and special markings (1 - up to 6 months; 2 - up to a year; 3 - after a year).

If you are unsure of your choice, please consult your physician.

Newborn formula feeding always starts with a new batch. The remains are disposed of, they are not allowed to be re-given to the baby. Short instruction:

Sterilize all feeding utensils.
Pour boiling water over a measuring spoon, dry.
Boil water, cool to 40°C.
Based on the manufacturer's instructions, pour the required amount of water into the bottle (the volume can be seen on a special scale).
Take the required amount of mixture into a measuring spoon, remove the slide with the back of a knife.
Pour mixture into bottle, shake well.
Apply the mixture to the back of your wrist. It shouldn't be hot or cold. The optimum temperature is 37 °C.
Start bottle feeding.

It is not possible to specify the exact amount of mixture for everyone. Parents should carefully study the instructions for the selected product in order to prepare one serving that will be appropriate for the age and weight of the crumbs. Daily formula:

Comfortable positions for bottle feeding

It is very important to keep your baby in the correct position so that he does not accidentally choke, spit up, experience colic and flatulence. Bottle feeding can take place in several positions:

To prevent regurgitation. The baby is placed on the left side, the position is correctly fixed with a pillow or roller. The bottle is served from the side, constantly controlling the filling of the nipple.
So that the newborn does not choke. Mom sits comfortably, resting her back against the back of a chair or sofa. The baby is located on the mother's lap, booty on one thigh, and his back on the other. The head should be in the elbow bend.
Using a special cushion. The baby is placed on the pillow at the optimal angle, in the desired position. It is important to constantly monitor the feeding process and not leave the newborn unattended.

The bottle must also be fed in the correct position. Key recommendations:

If the baby is lying in the crib, slightly raise his head, feed the bottle at an angle of 45 degrees.
A newborn will not swallow air if the nipple is always full.
Take a short break every 5-10 minutes for the baby to burp.
For normal milk delivery, the nipple ring must not be too tight on the bottle.

What to do after feeding

You can't put the baby down right away, you need to hold him upright, help him burp with a light pat on the back. The gastrointestinal tract in newborns continues to form, so it is quite natural and normal if excess milk and air come back out.

Formula-fed babies should be supplemented with fresh baby water.

The optimum temperature is 26-30°C. Water is given 20 minutes after a meal in a clean, sterilized bottle. The dishes are washed with a special children's cleaner, washed thoroughly so that there is no soapy film left.

Too much and too little mixture

When food is given in the wrong amount, this is reflected in the behavior of the newborn. If you notice signs of undernutrition or overeating, contact your pediatrician who will prescribe the correct portion of the mixture.

Video

How to bottle feed properly

Feeding your baby is not only an important process for healthy growth and development, but also a way to establish close emotional contact with the child and build trusting and loving relationships. The transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding should be carried out after the mother and the child are fully prepared for this. We are talking about both the moral aspect, and about choosing the right bottle and getting adults the necessary skills so that eating brings only positive emotions and benefits to the baby. In this article, we will talk more about how to properly bottle feed your baby and where to start.

How to prepare your baby for bottle feeding

If this way of feeding is a completely new experience for the baby, or if parents decide to bottle feed their baby from a very young age, slow flow nipples should be preferred. So you protect the child from the possibility of choking while eating. Over time, you can gradually switch to bottles with nipples, which would provide faster and more intense feeding.

Feeding bottle selection and daily care

All baby accessories should be kept clean and sterilized regularly and thoroughly.

There are several ways to sterilize dishes:

select the appropriate mode when using the dishwasher;
or place the bottle and teat in a vessel of boiling water for 5 minutes.

Before using this method of cleaning the bottle, make sure that the material it is made of can be exposed to high temperatures. Since some types of plastic contain various chemicals in their composition, after sterilization they can become dangerous for their little user. For this reason, experts recommend choosing glass bottles.

The need for thorough cleaning of everything that the baby will touch is caused by the fact that in the first months of life, the child's immune system is just beginning to strengthen. Before sterilizing the teat, it can be cleaned with dishwashing detergent. There are special products for washing children's dishes, without a strong odor and with a safe composition.

How to bottle feed your baby

Before starting a meal, mom or dad should wash their hands well with soap and warm running water. Particular attention should be paid to the area between the fingers and under the nails. The hand washing process should take at least 20 seconds. And after carrying out this hygienic procedure, hands should be wiped dry with a paper towel or clean towel.

The next step is preparing for the meal. If you plan to fill the bottle with formula, then dilute it with water in accordance with the instructions in the instructions. Improper proportions can lead to dehydration or bloating. It should also be remembered that for the preparation of the mixture you need to use only clean drinking water.

Breast milk is the most beneficial for a newborn. Despite this, pediatricians advise breastfeeding babies for as long as possible. Even if the mother is ready to give up breastfeeding, milk can be expressed into a bottle and gradually accustom the baby to the nipple. If, for one reason or another, the mother does not have the opportunity to feed herself, then the only alternative is feeding with a special mixture.

In the first six months after birth, cow's or goat's milk or its substitute in the form of soy milk should not be included in the baby's diet. Valid options for supporting healthy development of a newborn are breast milk or formula milk only.

What temperature should the bottle filler be? Under no circumstances should the bottle be heated on the stove or in the microwave. If the temperature of the bottle and its filling exceed 37°C, the baby may be burned. It is recommended to use special bottle warmers. If this is not possible, then use the following method:

put a saucepan on the stove with a little water;
bring the water to a boil, then remove the pan from the heat;
place a bottle of milk in a vessel and heat it up to 37◦С;
check the temperature with a pre-cleaned thermometer or a special device for measuring the temperature of foodstuffs.

You can also check the temperature of the bottle ready for use:

turn the bottle over;
drip several times into your wrist area.

In this way, you can check not only the temperature of the milk or formula, but also how well the liquid flows out of the bottle. If you have to shake or squeeze the bottle hard to drip, the nipple is blocked and needs to be cleaned out. If, on the contrary, the filler pours out when the bottle is turned over, this means that the nipple is damaged and another nipple should be used to feed the baby, having previously sterilized it.

How to bottle feed your baby lying down

There are several techniques for feeding your baby. However, it is the feeding of the child lying down from the bottle that young parents consider the most comfortable. It is worth noting that eating in this position will only be safe when the baby's head is slightly raised. Otherwise, the child may simply choke. In the prone position, the child should be placed on his arm bent at the elbow. After feeding, you should place the baby in an upright position, taking him in your arms and putting his stomach to your chest.

Make sure that the feeding bottle is closed correctly: the ring at the connection of the nipple to the bottle must not be too tight. Air must enter the bottle, otherwise a vacuum will be created there, which, in turn, will complicate the consumption of food for the child.

How to bottle feed without spitting up

Since the newborn is not able to fully control the process of feeding, along with milk, he can also take in air. This may be the reason that at one meal the child could not master the planned portion. In view of this, it is recommended to take small breaks during feeding.

As soon as you notice that the baby has stopped sucking on the pacifier, is tired or thoughtful, pick him up and press his face to you, holding his head and back. To help burp excess air, you can make a light massage between the shoulder blades, pat on the back or pope.

The air will quickly rise up and the baby will burp it without any extra effort. However, you should be prepared for the fact that, along with the air, part of the consumed mixture or milk may also return.