Bottle Feeding

What is bottle feeding?

One of the biggest decisions new parents make is how to feed their baby. Health experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, as it provides all the nutrients a baby needs to grow strong and healthy. However, not all mothers can breastfeed exclusively, and some choose bottle feeding for various reasons.

Why might a mother need to bottle feed?

Mothers may need to use a bottle due to:

  • Flat nipples: This can make direct breastfeeding difficult.
  • Medications: Some medicines can pass through breast milk and may not be safe for the baby.
  • Unavailability: Working mothers or those with demanding schedules may not always be available to breastfeed.

Babies may need to be bottle-fed if they have:

  • Abnormal mouth or throat conditions: Some babies are born with conditions that make it hard to suck.
  • Allergy to breast milk: Though rare, some babies react to breast milk and need special formulas.

For mothers who cannot breastfeed or choose not to, infant formula (a specially made milk alternative) is a safe and healthy option that provides the necessary nutrients for growth and development.

How common is bottle feeding in Africa?

In many African countries, breastfeeding is the cultural norm, yet bottle feeding is increasing. According to UNICEF, only about 42% of infants under six months in Africa are exclusively breastfed. Many working mothers rely on bottle feeding due to work commitments. Some also introduce formula because of myths that breast milk alone is not enough.

However, it is important to ensure bottle feeding is done safely to prevent infections and malnutrition.

What are some misconceptions about bottle feeding?

There are many myths about bottle feeding, but not all of them are true:

  • “Bottle feeding makes babies sick due to plastic chemicals.” There is no strong scientific evidence that bottle-fed babies have dangerous levels of plastic in their bodies. Using BPA-free (Bisphenol A-free) bottles is a safer option.
  • “Breastfeeding makes babies smarter, and bottle-fed babies are not as intelligent.” While breast milk has been linked to brain development, bottle feeding with expressed breast milk or formula does not reduce a child’s intelligence.
  • “Mothers who bottle feed are lazy or irresponsible.” Every mother has personal reasons for choosing how to feed her baby, and some reasons may be private.

How can you bottle feed a baby?

To safely bottle feed a baby, follow these steps:

  • Prepare the bottle at the ideal temperature (warm, not hot).
  • Find a comfortable position for both you and the baby.
  • Hold the bottle at a horizontal angle to encourage gentle sucking.
  • Ensure the nipple is filled with milk to prevent the baby from swallowing air.
  • Take breaks to burp the baby to prevent gas and fussiness.
  • Bond with your baby by maintaining eye contact and talking to them.

Best positions for bottle feeding?

  • Cradle your baby: Hold the baby in your arm, with their head in the crook of your elbow.
  • Sitting position: Place the baby upright against your stomach and chest, especially useful for babies with reflux.
  • Rest baby on your legs: Sit and prop the baby on your legs with their back against your thighs for better eye contact.

Why bottle hygiene is important?

In areas with irregular water supply, bottle cleaning can be challenging. A good alternative is the cup and spoon method, which is easier to clean and ensures the baby is actively fed.

How long should bottle feeding take?

  • A bottle feeding session should take 15-20 minutes.
  • If the baby finishes in less than 10 minutes, the flow is too fast, signs include fast swallowing, wide eyes, and open fingers.
  • If feeding takes more than 30-45 minutes, the flow is too slow, consider changing the bottle nipple to one with a slightly larger hole.

Final thoughts?

Feeding your baby is a personal choice, and whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle feed, the most important thing is ensuring your baby is fed in a safe and hygienic way. If bottle feeding, always clean bottles properly, use the right formula or expressed breast milk, and hold your baby close to make feeding a bonding experience.