Why does my baby vomit?
Q. I'm bottlefeeding my baby but he seems to vomit more than other breastfed babies. Is this anything to do with his formula?
Linda says - All babies vomit occasionally, and some ‘sick up' more than others during or just after a feed, whether they're breast or formula fed. This passive vomiting is common in the first three months and is called ‘posseting', ‘regurgitation' or ‘gastric reflux'. It just means your baby is still learning how to cope with breastmilk or formula. If he's well and gaining weight there is usually nothing to worry about. If it happens frequently, or he appears to be in pain, speak to your health visitor or GP.
How can I breast and bottlefeed?
Q. I want to combine breastfeeding with a bottle as I'm due to go back to work. What is the best way of doing this?
Linda says - When breastfeeding is reasonably established, it is possible to reduce the number of breastfeeds a day. Begin by dropping one feed a day, at a time when your baby wants to suckle for the shortest time. If still fully breastfeeding, it may be helpful to have a friend, partner or relative to offer the formula to your baby initially. Babies are notorious for not taking bottles from Mum! If you've started weaning this may be at a mealtime, when water or dilated juice can be offered in a cup or a bottle.
Your breasts will feel full and uncomfortable to begin with, but don't be tempted to express the milk as it just takes longer for your breasts to get accustomed to the reduction in feeds. Also, if your baby's over four months he may prefer a cup to a bottle. When your breasts are comfortable with dropping one feed, drop another. Talk to your health visitor or a breastfeeding counsellor if you have problems.
How can I stop my baby getting colic?
Q. My niece suffered with colic. Is there anything I can do to stop my baby getting it?
Linda says Colic is a term used for prolonged bouts of crying, normally in the late afternoon and evening. It can last two-to four hours and usually occurs from the age of three weeks to three months. A baby will often pull her legs up and arch her back as if experiencing abdominal pain, but true colic is difficult to prevent as its causes are unclear. If your baby has colic, ask your health visitor or pharmacist for advice. Many babies do get wind, especially if they swallow a lot of air when feeding, causing discomfort. It may help to hold your baby upright after feeding, either over your shoulder or on your lap, and to rub her back. Also, if the teat hole is too large, she could swallow large amounts of air with milk, causing stomach pain. Some babies do resist bringing up their wind and a little cooled boiled water will sometimes help.
Should we change to follow-on milk?
Q. My baby is six months old and being weaned. Should I put him on follow-on milk now or keep him on infant formula?
Linda says By the time your baby is six months, the iron stores he was born with are almost used up. Lack of iron causes anaemia, which can affect a baby's growth and development. Use of infant formula or follow-on milk is recommended until your baby is 12 months. Both types of milk are fortified with essential vitamins, minerals and iron that are lacking in cows' milk. If you've been using infant formula before six months, there is no reason why you should change to follow-on, as there's little difference nutritionally. However, it does taste more like cows' milk and may help with the transition to cows' milk, which is suitable for your baby to drink from 12 months. If you're worried about your baby's nutrition, consult your health visitor.
I don't know what teat to use
Q. Which is the correct teat to use for my newborn?
Linda says There are many brands of bottles and teats available on the market but not all teats fit all types of bottle. Be guided by the manufacturer of your bottles, and look for teats labelled ‘suitable for newborns'. All babies are different. You will probably need to experiment to find a teat that is the right size and shape, and with the correct hole size for your baby. If the hole is too large, your baby is likely to splutter and won't be able to cope with the flow as it will be too fast. Too small and your baby will become too tired before he has taken sufficient milk as it will be hard work trying to get the milk. A good starting point is a steady drip of milk from the teat when the bottle is held upside down.
