Introducing Formula: A Guide to Mixed Feeding

When Formula May Be Needed
- Formula can be a helpful option if your baby is losing weight, jaundiced, is small for their age, or if you're not producing enough breast milk.
- It can also support breastfeeding parents who are balancing return-to-work plans or need others to feed the baby.

Combining Breast and Bottle (Mixed Feeding)
- Always breastfeed from both breasts before offering formula to help maintain milk supply.
- If needed, you can offer breastfeeds, take a short break, then offer formula as a top-up.
- Keep formula top-ups small to encourage breast stimulation and protect supply.
- Use paced bottle-feeding techniques-which mimic the flow of breastfeeding-to avoid overfeeding and help your baby regulate intake.

Choosing a Formula
- No single brand is always best; choose one that fits your budget and is tolerated by your baby. - If your baby has a reaction to one type, consult with an IBCLC for alternatives.

Safe Preparation & Bottles
- Always prepare formula accurately and follow hygiene guidelines-powdered formula can be contaminated if not handled correctly.
 - Encourage slower feeding by offering smaller amounts, turning the bottle sideways, and using slow-flow teats appropriate to your baby's age (slow for 0-3 m, medium for 3-6 m).

Phasing Out Formula (If Desired)
- To gradually stop formula top-ups, replace small amounts (around 30 mL daily) with additional breastfeeds or pumping sessions.
- Aim for about 8-12 breastfeeding sessions per day to keep milk production boosted.

Final Thoughts
- Mixed feeding is a valid and flexible choice to ensure your baby is nourished and your breastfeeding journey continues.
- Selecting a formula that suits your baby and practicing paced feeding preserves their natural feeding rhythms.
- If you have any concerns or questions, your IBCLC can offer expert guidance.