Breastfeeding - The Law of Supply and Demand

Milk production works on the principle of supply and demand. The more your baby breastfeeds, the more milk you will produce, totally meeting your baby's needs. It is the frequency of breastfeeding, as well as the milk removed from the breast, that stimulates further milk production. Babies who are given supplemental bottles of water or formula breastfeed less frequently, ultimately decreasing the milk supply. Supplements, unless medically indicated, should be avoided for three to four weeks, until your milk supply is well-established and your baby is latching-on to the breast without difficulty. Babies need to be breastfed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours the first two to four weeks, or until they are well above birth weight.

Breastfeeding - Avoiding Artificial Nipple Preference/Confusion

Your baby begins to learn and practice the correct breastfeeding suck with the very first nursing experience. When both breast and bottle are offered in the early days, your baby may become "nipple confused" or may simply prefer the bottle nipple. Breastfeeding is an active process for the baby; bottlefeeding, however, is passive and requires a different type of suck. A baby who is bottle-fed early can have difficulty transferring learning to the breast. Avoid using any rubber teats (nipples) or pacifiers (soothers, dummies) during the first weeks. If your baby needs supplementation for a medical reason, use a cup. Even a tiny baby can drink from a small medicine or paper cup!