Mahaska Health Partnership Suggests Bottle Feeding Tips

Mahaska Health Partnership

MAHASKA COUNTY – Whether you’re breastfeeding or using formula, your child will likely use a bottle at some point. MHP Family Practice with Obstetrics Physician Shawn Richmond, MD, offers tips to make bottle feeding successful and stress-free.

When getting ready to feed your child, making sure you’re comfortable for an extended amount of time will make each meal easier. “Unless your baby eats extremely quickly, most feedings will take at least 20 minutes,” Dr. Richmond shared. “Make sure to support your little one’s head and prop them up so they don’t take in a bunch of air.”

Choosing a bottle, nipple and formula your child likes can make feedings much easier. “Some nipples and bottles can cause give your baby too much or too little to eat at one time. If they struggle with eating or act like they are uncomfortable while eating, try a different bottle or nipple until you find the right fit.”

During the feeding, pay attention to your baby’s cues. “Your baby will turn their head away from the nipple when they’re full,” Dr. Richmond explained. “If your baby doesn’t finish their whole bottle, don’t fret; as long as they are gaining weight consistently and having regular bowel and bladder movements, they are probably getting enough to eat.

“A good measure to follow is, for babies under six months of age not eating solids, two to two-and-a-half ounces of formula per pound of body weight should be consumed each day.”

As a part of feeding, burping is necessary to make sure your baby doesn’t build up air in the abdomen. “It’s good to take a break halfway through a feeding to get any trapped air out,” Dr. Richmond advised. “Watch for signs your baby is uncomfortable, such as turning their face away or spitting up. Try to minimize air intake by using angled bottles or ones with disposable liners.”

Making sure your baby stays awake during meals is important to make sure they are getting enough to eat. “If your little one dozes off during a bottle, wake them up to make sure they finish before naptime. You can do this by burping, changing positions or removing some layers of clothing.”

If your baby is fussy, spitting up or seems uncomfortable after feeding, it may be time to consider a different formula. “Some small spit-ups are normal but watch for vomiting, , diarrhea or rashes, as these can all be signs of a sensitivity. Talk with your primary care provider about formulas to try.”

When feeding your child, don’t be afraid to try something new to make sure they are getting the nutrients they need. “It’s hard enough being a new parent; don’t feel like you have to stick to a specific bottle brand or formula if your child doesn’t like it. Find what works best for you both.”

Shawn Richmond, MD, is a Family Practice and Obstetrical Physician with the MHP Medical Group. He is well known for the care and concern he shows patients during their pregnancy and as a family grows. He treats patients of all ages, truly embodying what is means to be a physician in family practice. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Richmond, call 641.672.3360.

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.