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My Breastfed Baby Refuses a Bottle… HELP!

You’ve been successfully breastfeeding for weeks, but now you need to go back to work and your baby won’t take a bottle. What do you do?

First of all, don’t panic. It’s not uncommon for breastfed babies to refuse a bottle, especially if they’ve never had one before. There are a few things you can try to get your baby to take a bottle.

Try Feeding the Bottle in Different Positions

The position you hold your baby in can make a big difference. If you’re holding your baby in your lap, try sitting them upright or holding them in a semi-reclined position. You might also want to try lying down with your baby and propping them up on your chest. Sometimes, babies just need to be in the right position to take a bottle.

Change the Nipple

If you’re using a standard nipple, try switching to an angled or slow-flow nipple. Some babies prefer a certain type of nipple, so it’s worth trying out a few different types to see what works best for your baby. You can also try using a syringe or cup to feed your baby rather than a traditional bottle.

Have someone else give the bottle

If your baby knows that the bottle equals mom, they may be more likely to refuse it. Have your partner or another caregiver give them a feeding so that they associate the bottle with someone else.

It can be frustrating when your breastfed baby refuses a bottle, but there are some things you can try to get them to take it. Change up the position you’re holding them in, switch to a different type of nipple, and give them some time to adjust. With a little patience, you’ll eventually be able to leave the house for more than an hour without having to worry about finding a babysitter!

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