my baby is 20 days old i give formula milk and breast milk can i give formula milk in bottle and how much formula milk can i give to my boy

Question

Accepted Answer

Feeding a 20-day-old baby with both breast milk and formula can be done safely, but it's important to follow guidelines to ensure your baby receives adequate nutrition and stays healthy.

### Using a Bottle for Formula:
Yes, you can give formula milk in a bottle. Many parents use bottles for formula feeding. Here are some guidelines for doing it safely:

1. **Sterilize the Bottle:** Always sterilize bottles, nipples, and other feeding equipment before each use to ensure they are free from harmful bacteria.
2. **Follow Mixing Instructions:** Prepare the formula exactly as instructed on the packaging. Using too much or too little water can be harmful to your baby.
3. **Temperature:** Ensure the formula is at a comfortable temperature. Test a few drops on the inside of your wrist; it should feel lukewarm, not hot.

### How Much Formula to Give:
The amount of formula a newborn needs can vary, but here are general guidelines for a 20-day-old baby:

- **Volume per Feeding:** Typically, a newborn drinks about 45-90 ml (1.5-3 ounces) of formula per feeding. 
- **Frequency:** Newborns usually eat every 2-3 hours. This can vary slightly based on your baby’s appetite and sleep schedule.

### Signs Your Baby is Getting Enough:
1. **Weight Gain:** Your baby should be steadily gaining weight. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician will help monitor this.
2. **Diapers:** Your baby should have about 6-8 wet diapers and 3-4 bowel movements per day.
3. **Contentment:** After feeding, your baby should seem satisfied and not overly fussy.

### Tips for Combined Feeding:
1. **Alternate Feedings:** Some parents alternate between breast milk and formula feedings. This can help balance both types of nutrition.
2. **Breastfeeding First:** You might want to breastfeed first to ensure your baby gets the benefits of breast milk before offering formula.
3. **Observe for Allergies:** Watch for any signs of formula intolerance or allergies, such as excessive fussiness, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash. If you notice these, consult your pediatrician.

### When to Consult a Pediatrician:
- If you are unsure about how much formula to give or if your baby seems excessively hungry or not hungry enough.
- If your baby shows any signs of discomfort, allergic reactions, or unusual feeding patterns.
- For personalized advice based on your baby's growth and health.

### Conclusion:
Yes, you can give formula milk in a bottle to your 20-day-old baby, and it's crucial to follow the correct guidelines to ensure safety and nutrition. Always consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice and to monitor your baby’s growth and development.