#asktheexperts my baby is on ebf , but I have to resume my office and my baby is not accepting formula or pumped milk through bottle. He gets cranky when I give him bottle. How will I make him to accept bottle.

Question

Accepted Answer

Transitioning a 5-month-old baby from breastfeeding to bottle feeding can be challenging, especially if the baby is resistant to taking milk from a bottle. Here are some tips to help encourage your baby to accept the bottle:

1. **Start Early:** Begin offering the bottle to your baby early in the day when they are calm and not too hungry. This may increase the chances of them being receptive to trying something new.

2. **Choose the Right Bottle:** Select a bottle with a nipple that closely mimics the shape and feel of the breast. Some bottles are designed specifically for breastfed babies and may help with the transition.

3. **Warm the Milk:** Warm the bottle of expressed breast milk to a temperature similar to that of breast milk. Babies often prefer milk that is warm rather than cold.

4. **Try Different Positions:** Experiment with different feeding positions to see if your baby prefers being held differently while bottle feeding. Some babies may be more comfortable being held upright or in a slightly reclined position.

5. **Offer During Sleepy Times:** Try offering the bottle when your baby is drowsy or sleepy, as they may be more willing to suckle without realizing it's coming from a bottle.

6. **Encourage Suckling:** Gently encourage your baby to suckle on the bottle nipple by stroking their lips with the nipple or gently touching the nipple to their lips to stimulate their sucking reflex.

7. **Be Patient and Persistent:** It may take time for your baby to adjust to bottle feeding, so be patient and continue offering the bottle at regular intervals, even if your baby initially refuses.

8. **Associate Positive Experiences:** Create a calm and soothing environment during bottle feeding time, and offer lots of cuddles and affection to help your baby associate positive feelings with bottle feeding.

9. **Seek Support:** Reach out to a lactation consultant or pediatrician for personalized guidance and support. They can offer tips tailored to your baby's specific needs and help troubleshoot any challenges you may encounter.

Remember that every baby is different, and it may take some trial and error to find the right approach that works for your baby. Stay patient, consistent, and supportive throughout the transition process.