What true combination feeding looks like. Here’s what you need to know about combination feeding to do it successfully

Many of my expectant parents of mums-to-be who I support, will intend to combination feed their babies. But what is that really?

Combination feeding simply means using both feeding your baby at the breast and offering a bottle of either expressed breastmilk or formula.

Often the thinking is that if Dad can do a few feeds with a bottle they will bond better or easier with their baby. Mum also hopes that this may give her more sleep, rest or time for herself. But true combination feeding can be a tricky thing to master. Ideally you would also wait until breastfeeding is established, it's very hard to do successfully from birth.

Protecting your milk supply: Each time your baby takes a bottle instead of feeding at the breast, your breasts miss a signal to make milk. If you’d like to keep your supply steady and plan to offer a bottle regularly, try to express at roughly the same time as that missed feed. So mum this can actually add to your 'work load'.

A quick myth-buster: Many bottles claim to “mimic the breast”, but no teat truly replicates how a baby feeds at the breast. So it's not always easy for a breastfed baby to accept a bottle instead. What matters more is how you give the bottle. Using paced feeding (upright position, frequent pauses) keeps the flow gentle and helps prevent bottle preference.

If you're considering combination feeding because you're struggling with breastfeeding, please seek professional support promptly. If your baby is unable to draw off milk at the breast then you will need to pump instead otherwise your supply will start to reduce and this could lead to the end of your breastfeeding journey. We know that mums who have to end their breastfeeding journey sooner than they hoped, are 50% more likely to experience postnatal depression.

• I have a list of breastfeeding support groups in and near Dorking, here

• You can also call the 24 hour National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212

• Find a lactation consultant near you here

And remember, this is an option and isn't for everyone. Plenty of parents never use bottles and that’s perfectly fine. Some mum's really don't enjoy pumping and prefer to use formula when not feeding at the breast - just know that over time your milk supply will reduce.

If you're introducing a bottle in the hope to create time and space for rest or to do things without your baby then just consider whether it creates extra work or is truly freeing you up. Dads can bond with their baby in so many ways other than feeding so don't feel guilty if you opt to exclusively breastfeed.

What matters most is that you and your baby are well and you are making the choices that feel right to you.

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Whether you're expecting a baby or have your baby in your arms, if you would like my support to feel confident about breastfeeding, do get in touch to ask about my 121 Classes or Power Hours! I'd love to support you: rose@birthandmore.co.uk

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Rose

Combination feeding can be tricky but offers flexibility once you get it right