#asktheexperts hi ..my 3months baby not prefers bottle feed and only wants breast milk. in a 24 hour period she will take only 1 or two times bottle and don't know exact reason. please suggest

Question

Accepted Answer

It's quite common for babies to prefer breastfeeding over bottle feeding, especially at 3 months old. Breastfeeding provides comfort, closeness, and familiarity, which makes some babies more inclined toward it.

Here are some reasons why your baby might not prefer bottle feeding:

Teat Preference: The nipple on the bottle may not mimic the breast as well, and your baby might find it harder to latch or suck properly. Trying different bottle types or nipples that closely resemble the breast might help.

Flow of Milk: If the bottle nipple has a fast or slow flow compared to breastfeeding, your baby may prefer one over the other. Experiment with different flow levels to find one that suits her.

Comfort and Familiarity: Breastfeeding involves both nutrition and bonding time with the mother, so babies might feel more secure and comfortable with the breast.

Breastfeeding Preference: Babies can be more used to breastfeeding at this age and may resist bottle feeding as they associate it with a different experience.

To help transition to the bottle:

Try Bottle Feeding When She's Calm: Avoid offering the bottle when your baby is very hungry or upset. Try offering it during calm moments when she's not desperately hungry. Let Others Try: Sometimes babies refuse the bottle from the breastfeeding parent but accept it from someone else, as they associate the mother with breastfeeding. Consistency: Offer the bottle regularly, but without pressure. Over time, your baby might get more comfortable with it.

If you're concerned or need further advice, consulting a pediatrician or a lactation consultant can be helpful.