Paced Bottle Feeding is for Everyone

Paced Bottle Feeding has become a widely known practice to help babies transition from breast to bottle, then back to breast again. It "paces" the feed, so the baby doesn't chug down the three ounces you worked so hard to pump.

With less chugging, there is a decrease in air intake, belly troubles, spitting up, and reflux-like symptoms.

It has now become a routine for bottle-feeding babies in general, no matter if breast milk or formula is in the bottle.

The bottle and nipple used for Paced Bottle Feeding are fairly important. You want a narrow-shaped nipple with the slowest flow your bottle offers. A preemie nipple is often suggested unless your baby shows signs of frustration.

The narrow shape allows the baby to maintain a good seal on the nipple, allowing less air to be taken in.

The baby is in an upright position. Your baby can be cradled in your arms or sitting on your lap with your other hand supporting their upper back, neck, and head. You can stop mid-way through a feed, burp, hold the baby in the opposite arm, and finish the feed. This helps to not always hold the baby in the same position; they can have a better range of motion and muscle tone if switching sides - also like the breast! It should take about 10-15 minutes for your baby to eat a 2-4 ounce bottle.

It is best to consult with an IBCLC if your baby needs to supplement before 4 weeks old. An IBCLC can also give you one on one education on Paced Bottle Feeding as well as other ways to supplement rather than bottles.

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