Using formula

Let’s face it: feeding your baby shouldn’t be so controversial. And yet, there’s so much pressure on moms to breastfeed exclusively. The reality is that feeding your baby is a deeply personal experience, and other people’s judgments shouldn’t override doing what’s best for yourself and your baby, including what’s recommended by your pediatrician. Period.

You have our support, however you choose to – or need to – feed your little one.

Especially in the first few days of breastfeeding, supplementing with formula is really common. And it can be extremely helpful – and necessary – for your baby’s health (and yours). 

You may want to reach out to your pediatrician or lactation consultant (LC) if you feel like your baby won’t settle, is too sleepy to eat, or isn’t effectively taking in milk during feeds. They can help you figure out what's going on and put the right feeding plan in place.

Your pediatrician or LC might recommend supplementing with formula if:

• your baby’s weight or diaper count are low 
• there is concern about your milk supply
• there is an issue with your baby’s latch
• you had a difficult birth
• breastfeeding is taking a toll on your mental health

Or another reason entirely. You might also just want to use formula right now. And that’s perfectly okay.

None of these are failures. These are just the realities of so many moms like you — and supplementing is often exactly the right call to make sure your baby is healthy and fed, and for you to stay healthy, too.

Supplementing can sometimes be a short term solution while you figure out a comfortable and effective way to breastfeed. If you want to continue your breastfeeding journey, there are a few things you can do to help support that goal. When you can, offer your breast first before each bottle. If your baby is getting a bottle instead of the breast, try to pump at the same time they’re eating to keep your milk supply up. This can help your body keep up with their needs. A weighted feed with your LC can show you exactly how much milk your baby is transferring and how much you should supplement with. 

It’s also completely okay if your breastfeeding journey is over. Whether it's physical barriers, a supply issue, or simply a deep instinct that this isn't working for your family, trusting yourself is what matters most. As long as your baby is fed and growing, you’re making the right call.

In the first 2 days of life, babies typically need very small feedings (less than half an ounce each) frequently - 8-12 times per day. By days 3-7, babies usually take around 1-2 oz per feeding. In weeks 2 and 3, babies take around 2-3 oz per feeding. After about a month, the amount levels out as babies typically take 3-4 oz per feeding but can vary. 

Using formula does not mean you’re a bad mom. It means you care about doing what’s best for your baby and your health – and that makes you an incredible mom.