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 Ask Dr. Jana
Baby's Not Interested in a Bottle | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Jana,
I am going back to work and my baby will NOT take a bottle. I have tried several different nipples, with different formulas and breast milk. Please help me.— Angela in Elk River, MI | | | ANSWER |
October 12, 2000 | | | Dear Angela,
It sounds as if your baby has decided not to make the transition back to work an easy one for you! While trying different nipples is a common and sometimes successful technique, there are other approaches you can take.
If you haven't tried already, you can have someone else offer your baby a bottle. Many babies too closely associate their mothers with breastfeeding, but do well taking a bottle from someone else. It even sometimes helps to give a baby a bottle in a different location from where you normally breastfeed. Although you want your baby to be hungry so she is receptive to the idea of receiving food in any form, don't wait until she's really starving to offer the bottle.
For some babies who just don't like artificial nipples in general, running the nipple under warm water to make it close to body temperature can help. Then brush your baby's mouth with the nipple and let her get used to its feel without forcing it into her mouth. If all else fails, you can try a eyedropper or a spoon to try to get your baby used to the idea that nourishment doesn't just come out of a bottle. For babies who are five months or older, using a cup is also a possibility.
Remind yourself that this is a learning process, and don't hesitate to seek advice from your baby's healthcare provider if you continue to have a difficult time. Best of luck on your return to work!
— by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. |
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