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Introducing Formula

Introducing a baby bottle

Introducing a baby bottle

Whether using a baby bottle for the first time or teaching an older sibling to use a baby bottle, use these simple guidelines:

  1. Sit comfortably with your baby across your lap. Tuck a pillow under your elbow or rest your elbow on the arm of the chair.
  2. Start with 2 to 3 ounces of breastmilk or formula in a bottle. Tilt the baby bottle so the nipple fills with liquid, letting your baby get nourishment and not just air. Then, gently touch the nipple to your baby’s cheek, which may cause her instinctively to turn toward you with an opened mouth.
  3. Continue to hold the bottle for your baby. Be sure never to prop the bottle with objects because it may interfere with your baby’s swallowing. As she feeds, talk soothingly and maintain eye contact.
  4. Take a burp break. Pause to burp your baby after every 2 to 3 ounces—or if she pushes the bottle away or turns her head. Frequent burping helps reduce the chances of spitting up and fussiness from stomach gas.
  5. Positioning your baby for burping. Use whichever of the following methods or burping positions work best for her:
    • Sitting up: Sit her up on your lap and support her head and torso with one hand, from the front. Lean her slightly forward; gently rub or pat her back.
    • Over the shoulder: Lean your baby up against you, with her chin resting on your shoulder; rub or gently pat her back.
    • Across the lap: Lay your baby on her stomach across your lap, with her head turned to the side; gently rub or pat her back.
  6. Switch arm positions. Even the littlest babies will start to feel heavy after awhile. So if it would be more comfortable, gently switch sides.
  7. Watch for fullness cues. If your baby turns her head, pushes the bottle, or isn’t interested in feeding, she’s probably full.

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