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General practitioners, midwives and early childhood centre advisors encouraged us at every turn to put the baby back on the breast, to seek therapy and counselling to put the baby back on the breast, at times even trying to scare and intimidate us into putting our baby back on the breast with stories about stunted mental and physical development.

Little to no effort was made to discuss how best to manage the bottle-feeding process. Those who eventually did offered advice that was inconsistent and largely illogical.

Beyond medical practice, I have also learned that women have openly ridiculed, bullied and otherwise judged my wife in public, as though our decision was made on a whim. This kind of schoolyard behaviour frankly beggars belief.

My experiences have me convinced that, whether deliberate or not, there is a culture in Australia and its medical profession that is specifically geared against bottle-feeding. I am heartened to know that my suspicions are resonated in a study published in the July 2009 edition of Archives of Disease in Childhood from the British Medical Journal, which found that:  

“While mothers recognise the benefits of breastfeeding, those who bottle-feed with infant formula do not receive adequate information and support from their healthcare providers and, thus, ultimately put their baby’s health at risk.”

It goes further to quote a pediatrician of 30 years’ experience: "While breastfeeding should be encouraged, it is not the only safe and nutritious infant feeding option available. Healthcare providers should counsel new moms with information on all infant feeding options in order to ensure the health of their babies as well as support mothers in their decision."

Most poignantly, it notes: “mothers who bottle-fed their infants were riddled with negative feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and failure.” Based on my experiences, I can assure you this is through no doing of their own.

In the months that have passed since switching to the bottle, we have done extensive reading and research of our own; we have fortified our resolve and our baby has thrived. I hope the people who’ve seen fit to pass judgement on us fare as well when their time arrives. “Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” – Matthew 7.

Kevin Cheung, Editor
Popular Science Magazine
www.popsci.com.au

Basic equipment needed for bottle feeding

We advocate breastfeeding and suggest that if you are having problems or doubts about breastfeeding it would be best to talk to your parenting coach about your concerns.  If on the other hand you choose to bottle feed possibly because of a bad experience or there is some other reason you can’t, or you have just chosen not to breastfeed this chapter will help you with the next best thing.  Bottle feeding.   If you are expressing and giving breast milk in a bottle this chapter can help you understand such things as sterilising, choosing the right bottle and teats.

Formula

There are many different formulas on the market no brand is better than another but some babies may react to certain formulas.  Their reaction may be seen as a rash, diarrhoea, constipation, unsettled irritable baby.   Some babies may have lactose intolerance or a cow’s milk intolerance.  Some of the ‘Gold’ formulas are renowned for causing constipation.  If your baby begins to shows any of these signs it may be wise to change formula within the brand or to a different brand all together. 

Teats and Bottles

Again there are a variety of types of teats and bottles available.  The most popular brand are not always the best.  The long thin bottles or the wide bottles are suitable but make sure they have clear measurements.  If you are going to exclusively bottle feed I suggest you invest in six large bottle.  Look for teats that are long and straight or slightly cone shaped.  Avoid short or irregular shaped teat and those that bulge at the neck.  These may cause baby to slurp and are not assisting in the development of the correct muscles for speech.  For this reason I don’t recommend buying orthodontic or anti colic bottles or teats.  When feeding, if baby is heard to be slurping the teat is not fitting snugly in her mouth.  Baby’s lips should flange out while drinking and not role in.  Some teats are interchangeable with other brands of bottles so I suggest you try a few before purchasing the type that suits your baby best.  The most recommended brand (at the publication of this book) is Pigeon Peristaltic slow flow for newborns and ‘Y’ teat for three months and older. 

Preparation of formula

Before starting make sure you have all the necessary equipment – formula, sterilised bottles and teats.  There are several ways to store your bottles ready for use two of which are as follows:

1. Make up bottles of formula and keep them ready-to-go in the fridge.  With this method you will need to warm the milk either in a bottle warmer or boil a kettle and pour the water into a cup or container into which the bottle of milk is immersed.   Takes 5-8 minutes.  Never microwave milk as some of the nutrition is destroyed.
2. Keep bottles of measured cooled boiled water in the fridge and add the formula when needed.  Take off the teat and cap before warming the bottled of water in the microwave for 20 -30 seconds then add the formula and shake thoroughly.  This disperses the hot-spots while dissolving the formula.

Always test the temperature of the milk on the inside of your writs before offering it to baby – it should be luke warm.
 
Once you have decided on the method you will be using both will require the following instructions:

• Always wash your hands before handling food and in particular baby’s food and formula.
• All equipment should be thoroughly washed with hot soapy water and sterilised.
• Prepare your boiled water (5 mins of rapid boiling) and allow it to cool slightly before measuring it into the bottles.  Never use bottled water as many have high sodium and mineral contents which may be harmful to baby.  Bottle water is not sterilised.
• Read the instructions on the formula label and make up to the exact proportions of water to powder.   Always measure the water first then add the powder.   * Never add more water to a formula as this will dilute the calories and nutrition, too much powder can cause constipation or dehydration.  
• If you would like to give your baby additional cooled boiled water it is advisable to offer it a short time after she has finished her formula feed or twenty minutes before bed.  This insures she has had her quota of nutrition and gives some time for the milk to go down.
• Always use the ladle provided.  This ladle should not be packed down or knocked against the side of the tin to compact the powder.  Scoop the ladle into the powder to fill it and level it flat with the back edge of a sterile knife.  Tap the bottom of the ladle with the knife to empty the powder into the bottle.  If the water is too hot the steam will cause the powder to stick to the ladle.   Seal and shake thoroughly.
• When making up the bottle the powder will always increase the quantity in the bottle.  Only give the amount necessary for baby’s weight don’t force her to take the whole bottle just because there is some left.  It is better to decant the excess before offering it to her and keeping it in the fridge to be added to then next feed if need be.
• Store pre-prepared bottles in the fridge with their caps over the teats.
• Formula or sterile water stored in the fridge will last 24 hours.  Discard any remaining bottles, wash and sterilise before reusing.
• Never reheat milk.  Always discard used milk after one hour of warming.  Bacteria breeds quickly in warm milk.

Tips on bottle feeding

Baby should take fifteen to twenty minutes to take a bottle feed.  If your baby drinks her bottle quicker than this then the teat is to fast and may cause discomfort and possibly vomiting.  Try a slower teat.  If baby is taking longer than this there may be several reasons.  Is she sleeping on the bottle?  Is she feeding more than four hourly from the beginning of one feed to the beginning of the next?  Is she getting the correct quota for her weight?  Is the teat too slow?  Is the teat on to tightly and baby is finding it difficult to suck out.  Some bottle fed babies don’t know when to stop and can be over fed.  Avoid overfeeding by only feeding three and a half (for premature or small babies) and four hourly for term babies.  All healthy babies should be on four hourly feeds by three weeks. 
Something to be aware of is not to over tighten the collar of the teat.  When attaching the teat to the bottle tighten just till you feel it catching.  Loose enough to allow bubbles to be seen rising in the milk. But not to loose as the milk will leak out.  You can then adjust the flow of the milk by tightening or loosing the collar making sure you can see the bubbles rising.  This allows the air to flow freely into the bottle through the collar releasing the vacuum which allows a steady flow of milk.  If there are no bubbles rising the vacuum will prevent the milk from flowing and eventually baby will need to break her seal to allow the air to enter the bottle through the hole of the teat.  If it is a cross cut or ‘Y’ teat the teat may invert into the bottle.
  
Watch when you are feeding as the bottle should always be inline with her nose and parallel to her lips not angled to high or to low.   You may like to support your arm while feeding baby.   Rest her in the crook of your arm tilted back at an angle that will allow the milk to always be in the teat which means she is being satisfied.  To dispel a myth - sucking on air does not cause wind.   Allow her to drink as much as she wants, she will generally show you when she needs a break.  Sit her upright holding her under her chin with two fingers under her arm and the palm of your hand against her chest.  The other hand, firmly support her back with your fingers supporting her head.   This straight upright or slightly backward leaning position will allow the wind to rise without obstruction.  It is not necessary to pat her back.  Sitting upright will also help her to stay awake and eventually take an interest in her surroundings whereas resting over your shoulder will very often put baby off to sleep.
 
Never prop baby up with a bottle or leave them alone with a bottle, this is very dangerous as baby may choke.   This includes putting a baby to bed with a bottle when they are older. 
If need be change the nappy towards the end of the feed to wake her up.  When she becomes more alert leave the nappy change till just before bed so that you know she is clean for bed.  Because bottle feeding is quicker than breastfeed you will have a longer play time so encourage lots of tummy time.  

If you would like more information on this and other similar topics our E-books are packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load an E-Book specifically related to your child's age group through Publications at Our Shop.

I thought parents should be aware of research that shows SIDS may not be a medical condition but is caused by toxic gases within mattresses.  The gases are caused by fungus breeding within the mattress and is especially prevalent with re-used mattresses.   

These deadly gases deactivate an enzyme within the body which assists with the transmitting nerve impulse from the brain to vital organs such as the lungs.  Over time the impulse is weakened breathing stops the heart ceases to function resulting in death.   Babies poisoned by these toxic gases show no physical symptoms of illness. 

Prevention:

To prevent these gases affecting a baby, the mattress should be covered with a non gas generating, gas-impermeable fabric.  The chemicals known to cause these toxic gases are phosphorus, arsenic and antimony.  It has been suggested to avoid moisture-resistant mattress protectors, sheepskin or woolen underlays, any bedding containing polyester or acrylic, pillows, sleeping bags, quilts or duvets.

For more information go to:  http://www.cotlife2000.com/

Tips:

At Cradle 2 Kindy we recommend always buying a new mattress and if you are concerned about the gases affecting your baby, purchase a mattress cover.  Other parents have recommended using untreated firm rubber cut to size.

Remember:

Our homes are often a source of toxic gasses, sprays and dust from common household products.  It is wise to read labels carefully and keeping all harmful products out of children's reach in a locked cupboard.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy has a service to help you set up your baby's nursery which is especially designed to help parents avoid the trap of buying some of the unnecessary items. See Nursery Preparations

Call now and book your personal Cradle 2 Kindy coach on 1300 786 101

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Many mothers have commented to me that they were given masses of information and preparation for labour, which was over in a relatively short time, but almost no preparation for what to expect after the baby was born.  Unlike a profession or trade where we have a period of training to equip us for the job, with parenthood we are often just thrown in booties and all!  We learn on the run and often without expert advice. 

Bringing a child home from hospital has its challenges.  You no longer have the security of the nurses being at hand, although I realize not everyone has a good experience during their stay in hospital.  Many first time parents have no idea what to expect.  Some have never handled a small baby let alone a newborn and feel awkward and clumsy.  Many parents have no family support, while others would rather not have the unsolicited advice from family or friends. 

I compare parenthood with a job interview where the employer asks: what training or experience do you have, what skills do you bring to this job, do you have qualifications in this field?  With parenting you could well ask similar questions and find yourself lacking.  Nobody can really prepare you for what to expect once you leave the hospital after the birth!  Babies don’t come with instruction books?  Because of this parents can become overwhelmed with the responsibilities, uncertainties and difficulties of parenthood.

The majority of my home calls are from sleep-deprived parents whose babies are ‘catnapping’. Those babies have not learnt to sleep for long periods of time between feeds—either during the day or night, or both.  This obviously affects not only the baby but the whole household - especially mothers.  A tired parent may be tense, impatient and frustrated.  They may then take this distress out on their partner, their older children and even their young baby.  The quality of life for the family with a grizzly, sleep-deprived baby is far from optimal.  Your baby, who was initially the joy of your lives, has now taken over the routine of the house and demands constant attention and pacifying. 

Research indicates that twenty to thirty percent of babies, toddlers and their families are affected by sleep problems of one sort or another.  Sleep problems often occur when there is a confusion of signs given by a tired baby.  Babies may appear to be wide awake when they are actually overtired.  Over a period of time, the baby develops a habit of not wanting to settle when put to bed, or not wanting to resettle when awoken after a 45 minute catnap.

Tips: Skills taught to parents when their children are still young can help prevent and over come common behavioural problems.    

Remember: Wanting to know more about how to care for your children doesn’t make you a ‘poor’ parent.  It may just indicate a further need for knowledge and understanding about your child’s needs. 

If you would like more information on this and other topics related to newborn care our E-book 'The Cradle Will Rock' is packed full of practical parenting tips.  Down load this and other Publications through Our Shop.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

The experienced professional advice Cradle 2 Kindy coaches bring is an excellent option and a life changing experience.  Our educators are up to date with current research and bring advice on parenting that is not only holistic but is also specific to your particular family. 

Call now and book your personal Cradle 2 Kindy coach on 1300 786 101

More Articles about Newborns

Having a baby is an exciting time but it can also be quite confusing when it comes to choosing products for your child or their nursery. 

Some things to start think about:

• What items of clothing and how many does your baby need or not need. 
• Are there any accessories needed for the season your baby is expected to arrive.
• What to put on your gift list.
• What nursery furniture and equipment will best suit you and your baby.    
• What kind of bath, pram, feeding needs or toys are appropriate.
• Where do pets come in and how to prepare your pet for the arrival of your baby? 
• Take some time to learn about the Australian Consumer Safety Specifications and the Australian Standards for Safety for various items such as cots and prams. 
• Check what items are not recommended by the SIDS foundation?
• What medical needs you will need to have on hand for mother and baby.
• What do I need to take with me to hospital when I go.

Tips: Avoid spending hundreds of dollars on items that you may only need once or not at all and save money to spend on more essential items.  Our gift voucher  'Setting up the Nursery' is an excellent gift for a baby shower and covers these and more topics to help parents prepare for the home coming of their baby.

Remember: You need to provide a safe environment in the home.   Check if your home is a safe environment for your child.

How Cradle 2 Kindy Can Help

Cradle 2 Kindy has a service to help you set up your baby's nursery which is especially designed to help parents avoid the trap of buying some of the unnecessary items. See Nursery Preparations

Call now and book your personal Cradle 2 Kindy coach on 1300 786 101

More Articles about Newborns