The majority of babies end up being bottlefed at some stage – if not continuously right from the start, then often after weaning or with supplementary bottles. New formulas, bottles, and nipples appear on the market regularly, all with the aim of making bottlefeeding as convenient and as similar to breastfeeding as possible.
The one thing you cannot give your baby if you bottlefeed from the start is colostrum, so even if you’re not intending to breastfeed your baby, you will be giving him a good start if you put him to the breast in the first few days. If you decide not to do this, the hospital staff can take care of your baby’s first feedings; he will probably be given sugar water a few hours after delivery.
One of the good things about bottlefeeding is that the new father can be involved at feeding times. Make sure that your partner feeds your baby as soon as possible after the birth. This way he can get used to the technique and won’t be afraid to handle the baby. He should open his shirt so that the baby nestles up to his skin when he feeds, and gets to know his smell.
Disposable bottles
Bottles that take disposable liners are convenient, especially when you are traveling. The liner is collapsible, so air does not enter the bottle as your baby draws the milk and there is less likelihood of gas.
