#asktheexpert My lil one doesnot satisfy with breastfeed and keeps on crying even if i feed for one hr..so i introduced formula milk in addition to breast milk..how can i avoid formula milk..?

Question

Accepted Answer

It's understandable that you're concerned about your baby's feeding habits. It's great that you're trying to focus on breastfeeding, as breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies. Here are some tips to help reduce the need for formula milk and focus more on breastfeeding:

1. Increase Breastfeeding Frequency: Try offering breast milk more frequently. Newborns and young babies often need to feed in smaller, more frequent sessions. Offering the breast every 2-3 hours can help keep your baby satisfied. Even if your baby seems to cry after feeding, try offering the breast again to encourage them to continue sucking and stimulating your milk production.

2. Ensure Proper Latch: Sometimes, babies may cry or seem unsatisfied because they are not latching on properly. A poor latch can prevent them from getting enough milk. Make sure your baby’s mouth is wide open, and they latch onto both the nipple and the areola. If you're unsure, you can consult a lactation consultant to help with positioning and latch techniques.

3. Check Milk Supply: If your baby seems hungry after breastfeeding, it's worth considering if your milk supply is sufficient. Try to drink plenty of fluids, eat a balanced diet, and rest to support milk production. You can also try pumping after feeding to boost supply.

4. Breast Compression: During breastfeeding, gently compress your breast to help your baby get more milk. This technique can help if your milk flow slows down during feeding, and it may encourage your baby to stay on the breast longer.

5. Offer Breast at Different Times: Sometimes, babies want to nurse for comfort, not just hunger. Try offering the breast during calm moments, even if it's not just for hunger. Comfort nursing can help with bonding and satisfy their need for closeness, which might reduce their crying.

6. Skin-to-Skin Contact: More skin-to-skin contact can help stimulate milk production and make your baby feel more comforted. When your baby is in close contact with you, it may trigger the release of hormones that support breastfeeding and bonding.

7. Gradual Formula Reduction: If you're introducing formula milk, consider gradually reducing the formula amount while increasing the breast milk feedings. This will help your baby adjust to breastfeeding more while still ensuring they get enough nutrition.

8. Monitor for Growth Spurts: Sometimes, babies cry after feeding due to growth spurts, during which they need extra milk. Keep in mind that these phases are temporary, and your baby’s feeding habits may stabilize once the growth spurt ends.

9. Consult a Pediatrician or Lactation Consultant: If you’re still struggling or your baby continues to seem unsatisfied despite these strategies, it’s a good idea to seek support from a pediatrician or lactation consultant. They can provide personalized advice to help you meet your baby’s needs.

It’s important to be patient, as switching from formula to breastfeeding can take time for both you and your baby. Keep trying, and with consistent effort, your baby may gradually start relying more on breast milk.