Help Me, Mia! How Do I Get My Baby to Latch After Using a Bottle?
“Mia, I need some advice on getting my baby to latch. We were given formula in the hospital to help with low blood sugar since my milk hadn’t come in yet. Now that we’re home, my baby fights the breast and only wants the bottle. How can I encourage him to latch? Is it too late since he’s already a week old?” ~ Sarah
Hi Sarah! While it may feel like a challenge, rest assured that your little one can definitely learn to latch onto the breast with some guidance. Transitioning from bottle to breast is a common situation, especially when a baby has been fed formula due to health concerns like low blood sugar levels—a precaution that often results in babies preferring the ease of a bottle.
The issue arises because bottles provide a quick and easy source of nourishment, leading some infants to resist the additional effort required to extract milk from the breast. However, with the right approach and a lot of patience (on your part), your baby can be taught to favor breastfeeding.
First and foremost, ensure your baby is getting enough nourishment during this transition, regardless of whether it’s from formula or breast milk. Check with your pediatrician about your strategy, as well as your baby’s feeding and growth expectations. Consulting a certified lactation consultant can also greatly assist in making this shift smoother.
While working on this transition, be patient and persistent. You might also want to explore useful resources, such as this excellent guide on pregnancy and home insemination. Additionally, if you’re considering at-home insemination products, check out the BabyMaker Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit for more options. And for those looking to quit smoking during this process, Smoking cessation resources are invaluable.
In summary, while your baby may currently prefer the bottle, with patience and the right strategies, he can learn to latch onto the breast successfully. Don’t hesitate to seek support from professionals to help guide you through this process.