Melbourne Midwifery

As a breastfeeding expert, I understand that sometimes, parents need to supplement breastfeeding with bottle feeding. However, choosing the right bottle for a breastfed newborn can be a daunting task. There are so many options on the market that it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, I will discuss the best bottle for breastfed newborns, whether or not it is safe to give a breastfed newborn a bottle, which bottles lactation consultants recommend, and which bottle is best for newborns.

Which is the best bottle for a breastfed baby?

When it comes to choosing the best bottle for a breastfed baby, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you want a bottle that mimics breastfeeding as closely as possible. This means that the bottle should have a slow flow nipple, as breast milk flows slower than formula. You also want a bottle that has a wide base and is easy for baby to latch onto, as this will help to prevent nipple confusion.

One bottle that is often recommended for breastfed babies is the Comotomo bottle. This bottle is designed to mimic breastfeeding, with a soft, silicone nipple that is shaped like a breast. The bottle also has a wide base and is easy for babies to hold onto. Another option is the Philips Avent Natural bottle, which has a wide, breast-shaped nipple and a slow flow.

Can I give my breastfed newborn a bottle?

Yes, it is safe to give a breastfed newborn a bottle. In fact, there may be times when supplementing with a bottle is necessary, such as when the mother needs to be away from the baby for a period of time, or if the baby is not gaining weight as they should be.

It is important to note, however, that giving a breastfed newborn a bottle can lead to nipple confusion. Nipple confusion occurs when a baby gets used to the flow of milk from a bottle and has difficulty latching onto the breast. To prevent nipple confusion, it is recommended to wait until breastfeeding is well-established before introducing a bottle, and to choose a bottle with a slow flow nipple.

What bottles do lactation consultants recommend?

Lactation consultants often recommend bottles that mimic breastfeeding as closely as possible. This means that the bottle should have a slow flow nipple, a wide base, and be easy for the baby to latch onto. In addition to the Comotomo and Philips Avent Natural bottles mentioned above, lactation consultants also recommend the Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow bottle, which has a slow flow and a venting system to reduce the amount of air the baby swallows while feeding.

Another bottle that lactation consultants recommend is the Medela Calma bottle. This bottle is designed to mimic the sucking motion that a baby uses during breastfeeding, and has a unique flow control valve that requires the baby to use the same sucking technique as they do when breastfeeding.

Which baby bottle is best for newborns?

When it comes to choosing the best baby bottle for newborns, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you want a bottle that mimics breastfeeding as closely as possible, with a slow flow nipple and a wide base. You also want a bottle that is easy for the baby to hold onto and that does not leak.

Some other options for newborns include the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature bottle, which has a wide, breast-like nipple and a slow flow, and the MAM Anti-Colic bottle, which has a vented base to reduce the amount of air the baby swallows while feeding.

To avoid nipple confusion and ensure successful breastfeeding, it’s best to introduce a bottle to a breastfed baby once breastfeeding is established and the baby is at least a few weeks old. Lactation consultants often recommend slow-flow nipples and bottles that mimic the breastfeeding experience, such as those with a wide base and a flexible nipple. The best bottle for a newborn will vary depending on the baby’s individual needs and preferences, so it may be necessary to try a few different options before finding the right one. Ultimately, the goal is to choose a bottle that helps facilitate feeding while maintaining the breastfeeding relationship.