Feeding your newborn is an incredible opportunity to bond with them, fostering a strong, affectionate connection while promoting their physical development. If you've opted for bottle feeding with expressed breastmilk or formula, you'll need to prepare the bottle, hold your baby upright during feeding, and burp them as needed.
Steps
Preparing the Bottle
Begin with a slow-flow nipple for your tiny newborn. Very young infants in their early days are more prone to choking while feeding. Use the lowest level nipple available with your bottles initially. As your baby grows, you can adjust the flow rate based on their needs and preferences.
Ensure Cleanliness Before Bottle Preparation
Mix Formula Powder with Water
Warm Breastmilk Appropriately
Check Milk Flow and Temperature
Sterilize Bottle and Nipple Daily
Feeding Your Infant
Recognize Hunger Signs
Hold Your Baby Comfortably
Guide Your Baby to Open Their Mouth
Keep the Bottle Tilted
Facilitate Natural Feeding Reflexes
Engage with Your Baby During Feeding
Observe Baby's Feeding Patterns
Establish Feeding Routine in Early Weeks
Dispose of Unused Milk or Formula
Effectively Burping Your Baby
Burp Your Baby Regularly During Feeds
Position Your Baby Over Your Shoulder
Gently Pat or Rub Your Baby's Back
Resume Feeding After Burping Attempt
Useful Tips
Important Warnings
- Always Supervise Your Baby