Complete infant formula, also known as bottle feeding.

Complete infant formula is a wonderful substitute that I am grateful for, because if we didn't have complete infant formula, it would have been a different start for many babies than we want.

Breastfeeding is number 1, but complete infant formula is a well-deserved number 2.

Bottle feeding, for when breastfeeding is not an option for you.

There is a lot of information available online about bottle feeding, which can sometimes make it difficult to see the wood for the trees. In this sheet, I provide you with the most important facts so that you can ultimately make your own well-considered choice regarding bottle feeding based on this information.

The choice for bottle feeding was made consciously and with care. During the intake interview, we looked extensively together at the various possibilities and challenges regarding breastfeeding. In addition, you had a conversation with the lactation consultant and completed the 'breastfeeding' course. Based on these experiences, the final decision was made to choose bottle feeding. This is a decision you are making with love and attention for your child.

As promised, I am happy to provide you with more information about bottle feeding. I am not permitted to give advice on specific brands within my practice, but that is not necessary. When the packaging states 'complete infant formula,' this formula meets the requirements and you can give it to your baby without worry. There are many different brands on the market; they all offer complete infant formula, although some brands add extra substances that they believe are of added value. However, research shows that this is not always necessary or offers standard benefits.

Should you be interested in specific brands, I invite you to do your own research or get in touch. You have already received the link to www.voedingscentrum.nl for more information. Additionally, I am happy to share the knowledge I have gained from the Voedingscentrum and my own experiences with bottle feeding.

Remember: any complete infant formula is suitable to start with. Give your baby time to get used to the food. Digesting food is new for the intestines and requires an adjustment period; it is therefore normal for it to take a while for your baby to get used to the new food.

During the postpartum period, we will pay close attention to how you offer the feed. Much emphasis will be placed on bonding, in a gentle and caring manner. There are many types of bottles available for offering the feed. Pay particular attention to bottles that have a newborn teat or teat size O. This is often not included with the bottle you purchase and must be ordered separately. Feeding in the postpartum period

During the postpartum period, we pay close attention to how you offer bottle feeding to your baby. The emphasis here is on creating a safe and loving environment where bonding is central. Feeding is done in a calm and caring manner so that your baby feels safe and secure.

Choice of bottle

Various types of bottles are available for bottle feeding. It is advisable to look for bottles suitable for newborns, specifically those with a newborn/0 teat and teat size 1. Please note that these teats are often not included with the bottle as standard and must therefore be ordered separately. This way, you can optimally tailor feeding to your baby's needs.

Many brands, many choices, they are all the same

When the packaging states that it is complete infant formula, it is a complete food that you can give with peace of mind. Research shows that every infant formula on the market is essentially equivalent, comparable to a carton of milk. When you buy milk, the basis is the same, but you choose a specific brand or origin. You can look at the choice you make for infant formula in the same way. This allows you to select the food that best suits you and your baby, with the guarantee that every option labeled 'infant formula' is a complete food for your little one.

How to prepare infant formula.

According to the standard guidelines within maternity care and the hygiene advice for bottle feeding, you prepare infant formula as follows:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and ensure the work surface is clean.
  2. Clean and sterilize the bottle, teat, and cap according to applicable guidelines, especially for newborns and young babies.
  3. Use fresh cold tap water. Fill the bottle with the correct amount of water.
  4. Heat the water to approximately 37°C if necessary, or follow the instructions on the formula packaging. Some guidelines recommend using water that has been boiled and then cooled to at least 70°C when preparing powdered formula, as the powder is not sterile. Therefore, always follow the instructions of the manufacturer and the local maternity care organization.
  5. Add the correct amount of powder using the scoops. Use the included measuring scoop, level off each scoop, and never add extra powder.
  6. Close the bottle and shake gently until the powder is completely dissolved.
  7. Check the temperature by dropping a few drops on the inside of your wrist. The food should feel lukewarm, not hot.
  8. Give the food immediately after preparation. Discard any leftover food remaining after a feeding and do not save it for the next feeding.

Important points to consider

  • Always use the prescribed mixing ratio of water and powder.
  • Preferably warm a bottle in a bottle warmer or in warm water. Mix the formula well after heating.
  • If you use a microwave, heat carefully as the food may heat unevenly. Shake the bottle well and always check the temperature.

Giving infant formula alongside breastfeeding in the first days of your postpartum period

If you mean finger feeding for a newborn, it is a technique where a baby receives milk through a thin feeding tube that runs along a clean finger. It is sometimes used when a baby is temporarily having difficulty drinking from the breast or a bottle. It is advisable to do this only after instruction from a midwife, maternity nurse, or lactation consultant.

Broadly speaking, it works like this:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
  2. Attach a thin feeding tube or a flexible syringe to a syringe or reservoir containing expressed breast milk or formula.
  3. Place the small tube along your clean index finger, with the end just past your fingertip.
  4. Hold the baby upright or supported slightly reclined.
  5. Let the baby suck on your finger (with the soft side of your finger facing up, against the palate).
  6. While the baby is sucking well, the milk flows through the tube. Ideally, the baby sets the pace by sucking independently.

NB:

  • Do not push the milk in quickly; the baby must be able to coordinate the feeding themselves.
  • Stop if the baby chokes, turns blue, seems breathless, or cannot swallow properly.
  • Clean all materials according to the instructions.