2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-07-31 02:08
Do you feel that your breastfeeding is coming to an end and you would like to introduce a milk formula into your baby's diet? We explain how to make the transition smoothly!
Weaning from breastfeeding
Even though the Canadian Pediatric Society recommends exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age and even continued tandem breastfeeding is encouraged with the introduction of solids up to age two, there are a number of reasons that your breastfeeding may end earlier. It's important to know that there is no one-size-fits-all method to weaning and that the method, when and how long it takes will depend on you and your baby.
As babies have high iron needs, it is not advisable to introduce cow's milk before the age of 9 to 12 months, when the baby already has a varied diet. Prior to this stage, infants are recommended to be given iron-fortifiedformulas so they can get all the nutrients their little developing bodies need!
How do I transition?
Even though there is no universal method forstop breastfeeding, it is still advisable to go gradually and to respect your rhythm and that of your baby in order to ensure that this experience is positive for both of you. Here are some simple concepts that can help you make a smooth transition:
- Start by replacing one feeding a day with a bottle of iron-enriched formula, or breast milk if your child refuses formula, to get him used to the bottle. Choose a feed during which your baby is fit and not very hungry to improve your chances of success.
- After about a week, you can start substituting another feed for a bottle. This period can be shorter or longer, the important thing is to wait until your breasts are no longer engorged during the feeding and less. To relieve your breasts between feedings, you can express your milk manually or let them flow in a hot shower.
- Continue this method at your own pace until you have completely stopped breastfeeding. To prevent your breasts from becoming engorged, make sure you always alternate between breastfeeding and bottle feeding until you have completely replaced breastfeeding with formula. It could take between 4 to 6 weeks.
What to do if baby refuses the bottle?
Your baby may react negatively to the bottle at first. Don't worry if this is the case, as it is completely normal. The key is patience. You can also usethese techniques to help your baby get used to the bottle:
- Start by giving him his first bottle in the morning when he is very hungry.
- You can also offer the bottle a few times a day as a milk “snack”.
- Put your own milk in the bottle first to get it used to the texture of the teat.
- Ask Dad to offer bottle feedings at the start.
- Feed the bottle in a different position than when breastfeeding. Also try sitting in a different chair or in another room altogether.
- Incorporate other reassuring contact moments for your baby such as rocking, carrying or massaging him to calm him down.
- If your baby is older than 7 or 8 months, you can try introducing the glass or cup.
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