Expert: ruth kraft - 12/29/2010

Question
Hi Ruth,

I have been given a formula for my baby after I breastfeed him. Is it OK to give a formula after I breastfeed him? He still acts hungry even though I already breastfeed him for 15 to 25 minutes (both breast)? He was born on 12/13/2010 and weight 8 lbs and 14 Oz.

Thank you in advance.

Sincerely,
Sarah

Answer
if you give the baby formula now, it will be hard to keep up with breastfeeding and your milk will not build. If you want to breastfeed, you should get an evaluation to find out if the baby is nursing well at the breast. If he is, then continue nursing just as you are. babies often want to nurse very frequently for the first 6 weeks, that is very normal. he should be gaining weight and having wet and dirty diapers every day. This is how you know he is getting enough. once you give formula your body thinks you are weaning the baby and will not continue to make enough milk. As well as the baby often refuses to breastfeed after a while. Keep up the good work and get an evaluation by a breastfeeding expert like a lactation consultant or breastfeeding counselor.

good luck!