Combination Feeding Guide

Combination feeding, also known as mixed feeding, involves using both breast milk and formula to feed your baby. This guide will provide an overview of what combination feeding is, how to effectively implement it, and the benefits and drawbacks to consider.

What is Combination Feeding?

Combination feeding refers to the practice of feeding a baby both breast milk and infant formula. This approach allows parents to supplement breast milk with formula, providing flexibility and ensuring that the baby receives adequate nutrition. It can be particularly helpful for mothers who are returning to work, have low milk supply, or want to share feeding responsibilities with a partner.

How to Combination Feed:

1. Introduce Slowly: Start by offering a small amount of formula after breastfeeding sessions to help your baby get used to the new taste and texture. Gradually increase the amount of formula over time to ease the transition.
2. Expressed Breast Milk: Use expressed breast milk in a bottle to help transition your baby to bottle feeding before introducing formula. This familiar taste can make the switch to a bottle less daunting for your baby.
3. Alternate Feeds: Alternate between breastfeeding and formula feeding sessions to maintain your milk supply while supplementing with formula. This approach ensures that your baby continues to receive the benefits of breast milk.
4. Monitor Baby’s Reaction: Watch for any signs of allergies or digestive issues when introducing formula and adjust accordingly. Keep an eye out for symptoms such as rashes, fussiness, or changes in stool.
5. Maintain Milk Supply: Continue breastfeeding or pumping regularly to keep your milk supply steady. Consistent stimulation is key to preventing a decrease in milk production.

The Ideal Combination Feeding Schedule

Creating a combination feeding schedule depends on your baby’s needs and your personal situation. Here’s a schedule that keeps it simple for busy parents:

• Morning: Breastfeed
• Mid-Morning: Formula feed
• Afternoon: Breastfeed
• Evening: Formula feed
• Night: Breastfeed or express breast milk for nighttime bottle feeding

Adjust the schedule based on your baby's hunger cues and your breastfeeding and pumping routine.

Pros of Combination Feeding

• Flexibility: Offers more feeding options and flexibility for parents. This flexibility can help manage busy schedules and accommodate various lifestyle needs, making it easier to balance feeding with other responsibilities.
• Shared Feeding: Allows other caregivers to participate in feeding, providing bonding opportunities and giving mothers a break. This shared responsibility can strengthen family bonds and provide valuable support to the primary caregiver.
• Nutritional Assurance: Ensures that the baby receives adequate nutrition, especially if there are concerns about milk supply. Combining breastfeeding with formula feeding can help address any gaps in nutrition and ensure consistent growth and development.
• Convenience: Useful for mothers returning to work or those with busy schedules. It allows for a seamless transition between breast and bottle, making it easier to maintain a feeding routine despite changing circumstances.[1]

Cons of Combination Feeding

• Potential Decrease in Milk Supply: Less frequent breastfeeding or pumping can reduce milk supply. The body may produce less milk as it adjusts to the decreased demand, which can make it harder to return to exclusive breastfeeding if desired.
• Confusion for Baby: Some babies might struggle with switching between breast and bottle. This confusion, often referred to as nipple confusion, can lead to frustration for both the baby and the parents, potentially affecting feeding effectiveness.
• Digestive Issues: Introducing formula can sometimes cause digestive issues like gas or constipation in some babies. Babies' digestive systems can be sensitive to changes, and it may take time for them to adjust to new types of nutrition.[2]
• Allergies: Risk of allergic reactions to formula ingredients. Some infants may be sensitive to certain proteins or additives in formula, which can lead to allergic reactions or other health issues. It's important to monitor for any signs of allergies and consult with a healthcare provider if needed.

Should You Combination Feed?

Deciding whether to combination feed depends on various factors, including your milk supply, lifestyle, and personal preferences. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consult with a healthcare professional or lactation consultant to make the best decision for you and your baby.

Combination Feeding Made Easier with Baby Brezza

Baby Brezza offers a range of products designed to simplify combination feeding: our formula makers, bottle warmers, and sterilizers make preparing and managing both breast milk and formula feeds effortless– especially with the use of the Portable Bottle & Breastmilk Warmer. This warmer is designed with your little one’s health in mind, as it’s able to warm both formula and breast milk both to the perfect degree; this means getting the ideal temp for feeding time without ever putting important nutrients at risk. With Baby Brezza, you can ensure that your baby receives consistent and nutritious feeds, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Explore our products to support your combination feeding journey and make feeding time a stress-free experience.

Sources: 

1. https://www.letstalkbirthandbaby.co.uk/blog-posts/mixed-feeding 
2. https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/feeding/combination-feeding/common-questions-and-concerns.html