I'm breastfeeding, I was wondering how to get your baby on the bottle, so it can be easier on my breast?

Question

I pump, I just can't get her to take a bottle of breastmilk :(

Answer 1

If your baby is older then 6 months it will be hard because she isn't used to it and they get more stubborn at that age. If she is under 6 months, just go really slow and tickle the top of her mouth a little, sometimes that will cause a sucking reflex. You might have to sit there for 30 min's and just be patient.

Answer 2

My breast started hurting during the second week. One night I just couldn't take the sucking on my nipples because they were raw.

I simply gave her a bottle and she took it.  

Answer 3

The sucking action on a bottle is totally different from the latch on the breast.  Introducing babies to bottles does confuse them terribly, and in the end, if they catch on, they will refuse the breast all together.

If by 'easier on my breast' you mean you are having some pain, revisit your latch, and make sure the babe is on properly, if you have questions, you can contact a local Le Leche League gal in your area - Thats what they're for, to answer your questions, and help you enjoy your breast feeding experiance.

If by easier you (like many moms) are concerned about the physical effects of breastfeeding on your breast, remember that contrary to popular opinion, it is the pregnancy that changes your b*****s, not feeding, not in the least.  So if you've already taken the plunge and had the babe, the damage is done, and we are what we is :)

Talk to a lactation consultant, It will help so much!!

Good luck!

Answer 4

It's common. My son won't take a bottle from me at all. He will take one from others as long as we are not in the house and I am not around.

Babies are smart, they want the real thing.

Answer 5

I went back to work when my baby was 7 weeks old. I nurse her when I am home and I pump at work. The key is to have someone else give her the bottle. She will associate you with the breast so therefore have someone else give it a try. Be patient it toke my hubby 20 minutues for her to take it. A healthy baby will not starve themselves so they will take it. Also try several different types of nipples. I found that the Breast Flow bottles and niples my the early years worked the best. They simulate the nipple. Take your time and she will catch on, I know it can be frustrating! Good luck!