We often talk here about the different stages that babies go through when it comes to feeding. We also know that this is a process that must be approached with great care and gradually, avoiding potential shocks between the small steps that can be taken.
When we talk about feeding, it is inevitable that we touch on the subject of the transition from breast to bottle. Ensuring that your baby makes this transition smoothly is the main goal. Therefore, we will divide this topic into two posts. Today, we will cover the first part of the transition and the main aspects to consider. We did our research.
The first idea we take away is that the first bottle of milk does not always go well. There may be rejection of any option other than breastfeeding. Both transitions — mixed (bottle + breast) or from breast to bottle — require weeks of preparation. The baby will have to adapt to the bottle and its characteristics. On the other hand, the mother will also go through a process of adapting to a new reality and a ‘new separation’, as she will be more sensitive and emotional about her little one's reaction.
We already understand that this is a process that must be approached calmly, patiently and with great gentleness. We believe that fathers will also feel a little confused throughout this process, but they will always be a key element, particularly in this process. Being patient and managing things in the best possible way will be important tools that will make all the difference.
The father's role represents independence and openness to the world. He can take on the role of a third party between the baby and the mother, so that there is a balance in the mother-baby relationship and to facilitate this physical and symbolic separation between the mother and the child. He is a moderator who accompanies the family, including siblings, as everyone goes through or is influenced by this phase.
With the arrival of the bottle, there are several adjustments. It is the second separation and a period of relearning. On the baby's side, they will leave the comfort of their mother's breast, tailor-made for them, for the bottle teat. They will perceive mealtimes as being away from their mother and will have a different routine from the one they were used to. On the other hand, the mother will have a process of adaptation, as it is something that influences her physically and psychologically, such as milk production and avoiding conditions in her breast such as mastitis.
We would like to know when would be the best time to make this transition, but the answer is that there is no most appropriate moment. It is a personal and individual process, in the sense that when it begins and how long it lasts depends on how the baby and mother adapt. We believe it is something that should be decided as a couple, in order to create a good and comfortable dynamic for the baby and parents. One aspect mentioned is related to preparation and how far in advance, because the better this part is, the better the transition will be.
Another aspect that makes this transition somewhat difficult is the difference in sucking milk from a bottle teat. When breastfeeding, the baby opens their mouth wide and places the nipple against the soft area of the roof of their mouth, flattening the areola and nipple with their jaw and tongue to draw out the milk. With a bottle, the teat is stiffer and enters the baby's mouth effortlessly, with the milk coming out more quickly.
We believe that this transition can be a little unsettling. After all, we are talking about a change in habits and a separation in a relationship with such a strong bond. Your little one will have to get used to new milk, which explains their reluctance and some discomfort, which they may express through crying.
As this transition brings many changes to your baby's life, it is important not to leave your little one in suspense. To this end, here are some tips on how to help your baby get used to the best way to feed:
- Talk to your baby about the changes that will occur — the details and even the new experiences they will discover.
- When it comes to bottle feeding, it can be dynamic and done by several people (e.g. the father, a friend, the grandmother, among others), so that the mother can have some time to herself, since until now this moment would necessarily have been just between the two of them.
- We should not hide any feelings we may have, as this is normal in a process where there is a gradual reduction in breastfeeding.
We understand that it is a process that takes time, both in terms of preparation and when it is happening. For this reason, we believe it is important to divide this topic into two parts, as it is extensive and requires our attention. It is important for the baby and mother, but also for the whole family dynamic.
What about you? Mums out there, how is this process going? Mums who have already been through this phase, are there any tips you would like to share? How did your little one react and how did the whole family react? We want to know your experience. We want to know your opinion.
