Bottle-feeding Q&A

Here are a few questions and answers related to bottle-feeding your little one from the 4th trimester onwards:

1. Why does my little one not settle after feedings? 

Your infant may become distressed and cry if he or she consumes air while bottle feeding.

What can I do?

• Hold your baby upright against your shoulder or tilted forward on your lap after a feeding. 

• Allow any trapped air to escape by gently touching their back.  

• Your baby may occasionally just burp a small amount of air. 

2. Why does my baby get sick after feeding? 

It is common for babies to vomit a small amount of milk during or shortly after a feeding. This is known as possetting, regurgitation, or reflux. 

What can I do?

• Keep a muslin square on hand. 

• Make sure your baby's teat hole isn't too big. If you consume milk too quickly, your child may become unwell. 

• Do not push them to take more milk than they desire during a feed. This could be distressing for your baby and result in overeating. 

• After a feeding, placing your baby upright on your lap may help. 

• If this occurs frequently, or if your infant is violently ill, appears to be in pain, or you are concerned for any other reason, consult your health visitor or GP. 

3. Can formula cause constipation in my baby? 

• When using a formula, always use the amount of powder indicated on the package. 

• No additional formula powder should be added. Excessive use may result in constipation and dehydration in your baby. 

• Always use the amount of powder specified on the label when using a formula. 

• Do not add any additional formula powder. Excessive use can cause constipation and dehydration in your baby. 

• If your baby is under 8 weeks old and hasn't pooed in 2 to 3 days, consult your midwife, health visitor, or GP, especially if he or she is gaining weight slowly. 

• Your baby should be gaining weight and should have a lot of wet and dirty nappies. 

4. Allergies and infant formula?

• If you feel your baby is allergic to or intolerant to formula, consult your GP. If necessary, they might prescribe a special formula feed. 

• Some formulae are labelled hypoallergenic, although this is not ideal for neonates who are allergic to cow's milk. 

• Soya formula should only be administered to babies under the direction of a doctor.