Bottle feeding newborn babies have been criticized, yet people cannot hate but love this method. Babies need to be fed at regular intervals. It can be difficult to provide the right amount of milk to the baby always. So keeping a bottle of milk or formula ready is a quick and easy way to keep your baby well-fed and healthy. Let’s debunk some bottle-feeding myths and check out. How to start infant bottle feeding as well as is the method really safe or not.


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Breast Feeding VS Bottle Feeding:

Breast Feeding was the only possible way to feed breast milk to babies for centuries until man understood that the milk could be pumped out and saved for some more time. Bottle feeding a newborn baby was immediately a topic of discussion. When companies started producing bottles that had a structure similar to a nipple to nibble and suck on and could be used to feed not just breast milk but any milk as well as other kinds of suitable liquids to babies.

If one thinks of comparing the two ways of feeding at par, it’s not really possible. Breastfeeding is not just a way to feed milk to the baby. But also a more convenient way for mothers to release the excess milk by pumping the milk. In other ways, can cause some discomfort, and some also believe that it gives some bonding time to mothers and babies. While many believe that its bottle feeding that keeps the mother feeling more comfortable and stress-free. The argument can go on and on, so let’s find out more about bottle feeding newborns. And understand how one is better from the other.

What Is Bottle Feeding?

Bottle feeding is a very simple process of infant feeding. The bottle consists of a nozzle that is shaped like a nipple. And is a material that is safe for children to nibble and suck on. This nozzle comes with a bottle that is detachable. The milk or a baby formula can be fed to a baby through bottle feeding.

Is Bottle Feeding Healthy?

Yes, bottle feeding is healthy. It is definitely not better than breastfeeding, but bottle feeding newborn baby is good for mothers. Who are unable to cater to the needs of the baby at all times. There are several mothers out there who are working, and for them, bottle feeding is a boon for their baby in their absence. On the other hand, everybody being different, and not every mother can produce a sufficient amount of milk; in that case, feeding baby formula is the only alternative that consists of all the important nutrients. This solution can be only fed by infant bottle feeding thus, bottle feeding is a safe and healthy option.

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Equipment Involved:

Bottle feeding consists of a bottle that is specifically for bottle feeding along with the formula or milk. These are the only two main pieces of equipment involved. People can use sterilizers and other things to maintain the hygiene of the bottle.

The Only Safe Alternative:

Bottle feeding a newborn babies is indeed the only safe alternative to breastfeeding. Babies are more prone to get in contact with germs and bacteria. As well as, their bodies aren’t prepared to handle irregular feeding patterns or motion. Infant bottle feeding allows the baby to drink milk or formula at their own pace and convenience. The bottle is also easy to handle as well as clean. Which makes it even easier for mothers to assist the baby. Bottles are spill proof which also is a benefit for new moms.

Bottle Feeding Formula:

Bottle feeding formulas can be easily found at drugstores. These formulas come along with directions that can be easily followed by anyone to prepare the formula. Make sure to store the formula properly if created in excess. Also, always warm the formula before feeding the baby. As it activates the nutrients in the formula and is also health-wise better for the baby.

When Is The Right Time To Start?

It is wise to start bottle feeding a week or two after the baby is born. Although it is alright to start bottle feeding. Babies after a day or two as per the convenience of the mother and baby. The aim is to ensure the baby is well-fed and the bottles are always clean.

How To Bottle Feed a Baby:

Bottle Feeding Newborn Baby is a fairly easy process to follow. Keep a few steps in mind, and that’s all for you to ensure that your baby is well-fed. The procedure consists of the following steps,

  • Use a properly cleaned, sterilized and well-dried bottle.
  • Prepare the formula as per the directions.
  • Warm the formula or the breast milk using the double boiler method.
  • Test the temperature of the milk by pouring a drop or two on the back of your hand.
  • Now place the baby on your lap or in the arms in a comfortable position.
  • Start feeding the baby and stop once the baby starts avoiding the bottle.
  • Take note of the amount consumed.
  • Clean or wipe any spills and then help the baby burp.
  • Put the bottle back in the cleaning or sterilizing set-up.

Precautions To Take After Bottle Feeding:

After bottle feeding a newborn baby, a few things must be kept in mind. To avoid the baby from contracting any germs or bacteria. Here are some common precautions to be kept in mind to avoid bottle-feeding problems.

  1. Once the baby has completed drinking the milk or solution. And, If there is still some left, either change the bottle or change the cap and there store the bottle.
  2. Always sterilize the bottle after use to avoid the baby from contracting any germs.
  3. Clean the bottle only using soap or liquid that is chemical-free or contains fewer chemicals.
  4. Use a bottle that has good quality silicon feeding nipple so that there are no issues.

Bottle Feeding Benefits For Mother and Baby:

There are several bottle-feeding benefits for mothers and baby. That we will point down here for the readers and new mums,

  • Bottle feeding a newborn baby can be easily done publicly, ensuring that the baby is never hungry.
  • Anyone can take over the job of feeding the baby with the help of a bottle. Giving the mother some time to focus on other things.
  • Bottle feeding also allows the person in charge to keep track of the amount of formula or milk consumed by the baby.
  • While breastfeeding, mums have to alter the baby from left to right. But when it comes to bottle feeding, there is no altering.
  • Even when a mother falls ill or sick, the bottle ensures that the baby is fed properly and on time.


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Side Effects Of Bottle Feeding:

There aren’t many side effects of bottle feeding. If the procedure is carried out properly, although there are some side effects,

  1. Bottle feeding the baby can be a costly affair as the bottles need to be of good quality and must be cleaned with good products while also being changed often.
  2. It can also have an impact on the mother and baby bonding time.
  3. Bottle feeding can be time-consuming, which also makes it inconvenient while travelling or in public places.

Bottle Feeding Tips And Tricks:

Some of the most common tips and tricks to keep in mind infant bottle feeding are,

  • Follow the procedure that is available on the internet or suggested by doctors while bottle feeding.
  • Always keep an extra bottle of formula handy
  • Buy a bottle that can be easily warmed up.
  • Always check the temperature of the milk or formula before feeding the baby.

Frequently Asked Questions And Answers:

1) Are There Any Alternatives For Bottle Feeding?

Breastfeeding is the only suitable alternative to bottle feeding or vice versa. Mothers do use spoons and bowls for the same process when they cannot access a bottle. But this method is not suitable as it is inconvenient in many ways.

2) How To Train Your Baby For Bottle Feeding?

Bottle-feeding a newborn baby is not a difficult task. As the bottle is designed in such a way that it is convenient for the baby to be fed. Although placing the baby in a proper position is all that is needed to prepare the baby for bottle feeding.

3) Why do Babies Vomit After Bottle Feeding?

Overfeeding the formula or milk can cause babies to vomit. It is essential to help the baby burp after feeding, spilling of some milk after feeding. Though is very common if it’s in small quantity.

4) How To Overcome Baby Not Feeding On Bottle?

Offering some breast milk before feeding on the bottle can be helpful. Also, try giving a bottle before the baby gets too hungry. Try giving a slow-flow cap bottle to help ease the baby not feeding on a bottle.

Yashasvi

About Yashasvi

Yashasvi developed a deep passion for writing ever since she was completed her Master’s in Mass Communication and Journalism from Andhra University, Visakhapatnam and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity. A Parenting expert who believes in communicating effectively with a personal touch, she writes about pregnancy, baby care, lifestyle, and just about anything else.
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