ARTICLE SUMMARY:
- Definition: What is mixed breastfeeding?
- Why choose a special breastfeeding bottle
- The consequences of a poor choice of bottle
- How to succeed in mixed breastfeeding?
- Expressing breast milk
- Store your milk in good conditions
- Give your breastfed baby the first bottle
- Conclusion: Choosing your special breastfeeding bottle
Definition: What is mixed breastfeeding?
Mixed breastfeeding is a method of nutrition which consists of alternating between breastfeeding and preparing a bottle for your baby . We also talk about partial breastfeeding. This can be implemented from birth. You may also want to wean your baby gently and consider purchasing a bottle feeding after breastfeeding .
Whether it is breast milk expressed by yourself or powder solutions available in pharmacies and supermarkets, you have all the good reasons to practice mixed breastfeeding. This good compromise allows mothers to often be able to return to work. It also includes partners who can give their babies the milk they need through bottles.
These moments of sharing are often very appreciated and allow them to get to know each other. In addition, the mother can take the opportunity to breathe a little and have time for herself. Whatever your main motivation, let's see together what would be the best special breastfeeding bottle .
Why choose a special breastfeeding bottle?
When you opt for a special breastfeeding bottle, you allow your child to find the same sensations when feeding as those he experiences at the breast .
This important aspect prevents rejection of the pacifier which may seem less welcoming to your baby. The textures and shapes of the teats are studied and designed to best reproduce breastfeeding conditions.
The consequences of a poor choice of bottle
First of all, you must ensure that your baby is not too disoriented by this change in feeding method. As we mentioned previously, An unsuitable bottle could cause your baby to be choosy . There is also a great risk of confusion between the breast and the pacifier.
This last point can undermine your breastfeeding which you have established with pride. You must therefore choose a bottle that will reassure your baby through its shape and texture in the mouth . In addition, poor choice of bottle can lead to increased reflux in your child.
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How to succeed in mixed breastfeeding?
Expressing breast milk
To achieve a combination of breast feeding and bottle feeding, You can express your milk using an electric or manual breast pump . Before handling, wash your hands thoroughly and use clean equipment. It is no longer necessary to disinfect today. Always systematically clean your milk pump after use.
All breast pumps are designed to reproduce baby's sucking . The electric ones will have different modes available (simulation mode and expression mode). You can also adjust the speaking speed according to your personal comfort.
There are bottles capable of fitting directly onto breast pumps. So you don't need to transfer the milk to another container. The less you handle the product, the less risk of infection there will be.
Discover the link below to access a free practical guide to make your breastfeeding pump as successful as possible: Succeeding in your breastfeeding pump: practical guide for mothers - Élhée .
By expressing your breast milk and offering it to your child using a special breastfeeding bottle, you preserve this unique bond that unites you with your baby while maintaining the benefits of breastfeeding.
Store your milk in good conditions
If you choose to stock up on your milk, know that you can easily store it in the refrigerator for up to about three days. Beyond that, we still recommend not giving milk to your little one. Never store milk in the refrigerator door.
Freshly expressed milk will keep easily at room temperature for about four hours . For example, if you plan to express your milk before leaving for work and someone else has to give it when your little one wakes up, it is possible to let it rest in your kitchen without going through the fridge. ! This will prevent the milk from an additional temperature change which can sometimes very slightly alter the taste and take longer to warm up in a bain-marie.
You can also Freeze your milk for up to four months . Never refreeze thawed product. Throw away any remaining thawed milk not consumed by your child. The economy is not worth the risk.
Give your breastfed baby the first bottle
The first time you give your baby a bottle can be a stressful time for you. Do not panic ! Your child may not drink at first. He might also turn his head or not bother to open his mouth. This is not a whim. Keep in mind that this situation is new for him and for you.
Here is the best way to start:
- Once you have prepared a small quantity of milk (60 ml is enough for the first time), don't forget to test the temperature of the warmed milk. Warm milk will be more likely to be accepted by your child . When you breastfeed, milk is at body temperature, around 36 degrees Celsius. Place a few drops on your forearm just above your wrist. The skin is thin and sensitive here and is the best place to test the temperature of the milk.
- Position yourself with baby comfortably on a sofa or any place where you will be comfortable. Your baby should not be in a horizontal position but slightly inclined . This way, there is no risk of taking a wrong turn. A well-known little trick is to place a few drops of your breast milk that you can express manually just before giving the bottle on the tip of the pacifier in order to encourage baby to drink. Babies are indeed very receptive to the smell given off by breast milk.
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Let your child do it. Never force him to drink ! You risk breaking the relationship of trust that binds you to him. Things may not work out the first time. Repeat the operation later in the day or the next day if it is not successful .
If no conclusive results are seen in the first weeks, consult a health and early childhood professional. There are also people who specialize in supporting mothers and their babies. They are called doulas, midwives, pediatricians, etc. Some are also lactation consultants. First of all, trust yourself, and trust your baby .
Conclusion: Choosing your special breastfeeding bottle
You will have understood, to choose your special breastfeeding bottle and succeed in your mixed breastfeeding, you must reproduce the conditions of breastfeeding as best as possible by favoring the choice of a flexible teat with soft textures, as close as possible to what breastfeeding offers.
Élhée offers bottles that are perfectly suited to your mixed breastfeeding project . These baby bottles, guaranteed to be free of toxic materials and made from medical grade silicone, are suitable for a smooth transition. Patience and confidence are the key words for successful mixed breastfeeding !
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