#asktheexpert hi mam am a working mother. my baby is 9 mons old he got used to sleep while breastfeeding. now I need to go to office. how do I have to change his habit and stop breastfeeding. he is rejecting formula milk in bottle. kindly advice. thanks.

Question

Accepted Answer

Transitioning your baby from breastfeeding to bottle feeding can be a gradual process that requires patience, consistency, and understanding. Here are some steps you can take to facilitate the transition:

1. **Introduce the bottle gradually:** Start by offering the bottle to your baby once a day, preferably when they are calm and not overly hungry. Choose a time when your baby is likely to be receptive, such as after a nap or between feedings.

2. **Choose the right bottle and nipple:** Select a bottle with a nipple that closely mimics the shape and flow of the breast to help your baby make the transition more easily. Experiment with different nipple shapes and flow rates to find one that your baby prefers.

3. **Express breast milk:** If your baby is hesitant to take the bottle, try expressing a small amount of breast milk into the bottle to familiarize them with the taste and texture. Gradually increase the amount of breast milk offered in the bottle as your baby becomes more comfortable.

4. **Encourage skin-to-skin contact:** Hold your baby close to you while offering the bottle to provide comfort and reassurance. Maintain eye contact and speak to your baby in a soothing voice to help them feel connected and secure.

5. **Offer a variety of feeding positions:** Experiment with different feeding positions to find one that your baby finds comfortable and conducive to bottle feeding. Hold your baby in a semi-upright position and support their head and neck as needed.

6. **Be patient and persistent:** It may take time for your baby to adjust to bottle feeding, so be patient and continue offering the bottle consistently. Avoid forcing the bottle into your baby's mouth or becoming frustrated if they resist initially.

7. **Involve other caregivers:** Enlist the help of other caregivers, such as your partner or a trusted family member, to assist with bottle feeding. Having someone else offer the bottle can sometimes make the transition smoother for your baby.

8. **Gradually reduce breastfeeding sessions:** As your baby becomes more accustomed to bottle feeding, gradually reduce the frequency of breastfeeding sessions over time. Replace one breastfeeding session with a bottle feeding session and gradually increase the number of bottle feedings as your baby adjusts.

Remember that every baby is different, and the transition from breastfeeding to bottle feeding may take longer for some babies than others. Stay patient, provide plenty of reassurance and support, and trust that your baby will eventually adapt to the change in feeding method. If you encounter challenges or have concerns, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a lactation consultant or pediatrician for personalized advice and support.