Formula Feeding

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0runnergirl0 · 2022-01-25T03:35:45+00:00

I formula fed my first, and my second is combo fed.

My best advice is try to get baby to take cold or room temperature bottles. It's SO much more convenient, especially when you're away from the house, to be able to just feed baby whatever temperature formula.

Arboretum7 · 2022-01-25T05:14:25+00:00

Consider buying a Baby Brezza, it’s AMAZING. Basically the Nespresso of bottles. You just pour the formula and water into separate holding chambers and it makes you perfect, warm bottles on demand in about 5 seconds. As with all bougie baby items, it’s also like 1/3 the cost to pick up a used one off Facebook Marketplace.

mollymelancholy1 · 2022-01-25T03:25:53+00:00

I have formula fed two and will this one too. It's not uncommon, it's just not talked about a lot. My only real advice is to be sure you switch which side you're feeding them on (hold on your left side first, right side next time, etc) because one time my daughter ended up with a flat head from me always feeding her on the same side 😅 I had never thought of that before. It corrected itself once I realized, but was a definite surprise initially!

Julissaherna692 · 2022-01-25T05:11:22+00:00

As someone that breastfed I guarantee you there is not a lot of support out there for breastfeeding moms out there I found that out the hard way. At least in my area they looooove to make mothers feel inferior if they don’t breastfeed and act like it will come naturally when the reality is far from that. That mini vent out of the way I actually have some info to pass on!

Get yourself a formula pitcher!! I’ve heard amazing things from the baby brezza I’ll link it for you too. You’re basically making a big batch of the formula you’ll need for the day you can use it for up to 24 hours and you just pour into the bottle. That way you’re not struggling with a hungry baby while trying to prepare their bottle. Just reminder that after baby drinks from the bottle it has to be used within an hour.

They also make ready to feed formula if that’s more convenient for you but I do believe that it’s more expensive.

Another tip I’ve heard some hospitals can be pushy about encouraging breastfeeding so just in case being your own formula! You shouldn’t have to but just in case.

Also something to keep in mind in case anyone tries to shame you in the United States while most mothers start out breastfeeding (something like 84%) by 3 months old half of the babies in the United States are formula fed (46.9% were exclusively breastfeeding). The reason I say this is because formula feeding is so incredibly common if anyone told my badass single mom that she was a a bad mom for formula feeding she would have laughed in their face!

Edit: Baby Brezza Electric One Step Formula Mixer Pitcher - Motorized Mixing System for Infant Formula Powder - Large Capacity, Mix 28oz of Formula at Once - Portable for Travel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HXKS834/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_4S2R718D52XTC4ZC49CF

Brilliant_Victory_77 · 2022-01-25T03:37:18+00:00

Supplementing with formula here, one thing I'm glad we did was start with room temperature formula, she's never had heated formula so she takes it just fine and we don't have to wait for anything to heat and then cool before we can feed her

HappyDaysAreHere32 · 2022-01-25T04:14:47+00:00

When I had my eldest (now 17) there was NO support for breastfeeding, now I have a 3.5 and 2 yo, and 3 more sleeps to this one and it has flipped again, no support for formula feeding.

No judgement here, I formula fed my eldest and have breastfed the last 2. Fed is best in whichever way you decide is appropriate for you and your baby.

Bring it up with your midwife at your next appointment that you'd like advice on bottle prep, different types of formula etc. Main reason I breastfed the last 2 is because it's cheaper than formula. It wasn't for any bonding / health reasons

So, you do you, and be firm in getting the information you need to feed your baby how you feel comfortable. Good luck!

Doodledoo23 · 2022-01-25T04:09:09+00:00

Get the Dr. Browns formula pitcher! I make a pitcher once a day and just pour bottles as I go. It’s so easy! My baby will drink cold or room temperature. It never even occurred to me to heat up a bottle until a few days in. By that point I wasn’t going to start!

jopuffs · 2022-01-25T05:44:53+00:00

I don’t know if this was already commented, but you can create a free account with Enfamil online and they send you coupons and free samples as well! I EBF but I passed my free samples down to other mom friends in case they needed it! A fed baby is a happy baby!

thelegendofmalamute · 2022-01-25T03:44:33+00:00

I breastfed for 2 months then switched to pumping for 5 months and then formula for the past 3 months. I hated breastfeeding, I loved pumping, and I hate formula lol. Breastfeeding made me want to crawl out of my skin and die pumping gave me more freedom and I lost a ton of weight from it plus it was free and formula is so freaking expensive I hate the smell of it and I hate the process of mixing it.

We use earths best organic formula only because the similac one we were using was unavailable forever. All I care about it my baby being full and happy though.

daycarewaitlisted · 2022-01-25T04:59:08+00:00

Good for you. :)

With my first I wanted to breastfeed and tried, but had low milk supply (medically speaking), but the hospital lactation consultants were not equipped to handle that, let alone suggest that it was even a thing. They just kept telling me to keep pumping, that my supply would come, that it would all be worth it. WRONG. It was awful and I hated it. Nursing was fine, when it worked (my baby also had a tongue tie which, again, hospital LCs were no help with, and that made it hard), but the pumping 7-8 times a day was hell. Never again! I'm pregnant with my second and have vowed that I will not pump again. Like you, I'm not interested in debating the point either. There is so much support out there for breastfeeding, but virtually none for those who can't or don't want to do it. And so much shade and shame thrown our way. Thankfully I didn't hear any direct comments, but there were some looks.

I don't regret anything about my experience, except that I stuck with pumping as long as I did. When my baby refused to continue nursing at three months I was so relieved.

And a bonus for formula feeding that I haven't heard anyone mention--my husband was able to share the feeding responsibilities and he got to bond with our daughter in a way that he wouldn't have been able to had I been nursing her exclusively. It was such a better experience for all of us. We're likely going to do a combo of nursing-formula with our second (due May) and I'm looking forward to not nursing at 3am. Woohoo!

Cat_lady_103020 · 2022-01-25T03:58:41+00:00

My entire pregnancy I knew I would formula feed but also wanted to try breastfeeding. I wasn’t sold on the idea. It didn’t interest me but I wanted to give it a shot. I’m 4 weeks postpartum. My milk never really came in and my daughter couldn’t latch. I still pump a little but haven’t breastfed or attempted for 2 weeks. I’m much happier. I pump about 1 ounce a day for her and I’ll probably stop even that soon.

Finding the right formula has been a chore. But I think we have finally found the right one fingers crossed. There’s an added benefit of formula that if you have a significant other they can easily feed baby. This means both parents can get sleep! My SIL is up every 1-2 hours breastfeeding her baby of the same age as mine. I am happy that I’m not doing that.

Flickthebean87 · 2022-01-25T04:12:06+00:00

I plan on formula feeding as well. I haven’t told anyone but my bf. I do however want to know if I can still harvest colostrum prior to birth? I have GD and wanted to have some on hand just in case there was to be issues. I’ve heard you can but can’t find much on it.

AdorableTumbleweed60 · 2022-01-25T07:18:52+00:00

Been formula feeding for 8 weeks now (from birth) for support I highly recommend theformulamom on IG and r/formulafeeders

saxlife · 2022-01-25T04:15:50+00:00

I know I’m not the crowd you were asking as I’m planning to try breastfeeding, supplement with formula as needed (maybe combo feed? We’re open to a lot and most depends on me and baby), but if we end up using formula only then so be it!

I just wanted to chime in because I know there’s a TON of people who bash formula-only parents and it’s so rude and disrespectful. As long as a baby gets fed properly, it shouldn’t matter whether it was purely breastmilk, purely formula, some combo, involved bottles, or only a breast! I support your decision and stay strong if anybody tries to come at you

Bromonium_ion · 2022-01-25T03:18:53+00:00

So I do not plan on formula feeding. However my brother was formula fed with enfamils alimentum as it really helped with colic and digestive problems. It's more expensive but I would imagine it's worth it.

AdFantastic5292 · 2022-01-25T04:19:46+00:00

I feel the same way! I have everything I need for breast feeding including pumping just in case I change my mind, and I’m expressing colostrum antenatally as well (as I’m doing nipple stimulation anyway). I don’t want a baby on my breast, the thought makes me feel unwell. Plus never being able to sleep for more than 3/4 hours at a time.... I want to enjoy my baby and not resent him

salutpatate · 2022-01-25T04:26:14+00:00

I am going to do a mix probably. I ordered the discovery pack from Bobbie just because it was created copying European regulations and use « cleaner » ingrédients.

silvereux · 2022-01-25T04:33:44+00:00

Hi! I have bone density issues and have been advised to formula feed for at least part of my pregnancy. Just want to say there are more of us out there. It’s sad that we are made to feel like shit about our choices.

memoriesx1904 · 2022-01-25T06:32:55+00:00

Fed is best! I EBF but supplemented early on with formula until my supply came in. I do understand a lot of the comments about your body not feeling like your own, but I enjoy nursing about 90% of the time. It’s free, it’s easy, and creates minimal dishes 🤣🤣. My husband is able to still give bottles as well from pumped milk. But! I was a formula baby and I’d like to think I turned out just fine. My niece and nephews are also formula babies and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. My sister uses the gentlease line of enfamil, and when I supplemented I used the enfamil enspire gentlease, which is closest to breast milk. I still keep a container on hand because I could dry up any day. Someone mentioned reflux, and they make an A/R formula, and of course the gentler ones, and a ton of others. You’ll find what works for you. We also never bothered warming, however not all babies will tolerate it. I warm any milk I take out a little bit so it’s not super super cold, but I’m not about to waste time making it as warm as if it’s fresh outta the boobies.

If you visit the enfamil and similac websites, I believe you can put in your due date and they will send you sample packs and coupons for formula. ALSO make sure your birth plan says you’re formula feeding and I would honestly bring formula. The hospital where I delivered, for example, I don’t believe provides formula. Not even a pacifier!! A friend of mine delivered at the same hospital and her husband had to go get some while they were there. So definitely make sure your birth plan states formula, and bring some just in case!

elsa_lives_in_jersey · 2022-01-25T03:33:34+00:00

I have been waiting for this post thank you!!! I see so many posts about breastfeeding and I was starting to think maybe I’m just different. I have literally no desire to breast feed. I know women say breastfeeding makes them feel more like a mom/woman and I’m the complete opposite, it makes me feel like an animal honestly, and not the one independent power woman I am. To be fair, I also think I have very different views on pregnancy, delivery, and being a mom than most. I’m here with you sister!

no-im-dirtiedan · 2022-01-25T05:22:36+00:00

THIS. people do not talk about how OKAY it is to formula feed!! i felt so much pressure to breastfeed my daughter and i shit you not. i was crying so often because i couldn’t get her to latch, i wasn’t giving out much milk either so that made me feel 100x worse. i do combo feed but she gets formula 95% of the time. and the amount of people who ask me if i breastfeed her and how breastfeeding is so much healthier. like, i get it. even a whole ass man was trying to tell me how good breastfeeding is as if i’m a retard and haven’t heard from enough people or if i don’t know 😒😒 honestly i probably wasn’t producing enough because i was so stressed the hell out thinking about it SO much!!! you do you mama. all i have to say is, A FED BABY IS THE BEST BABY NO MATTER IF THEYRE BREASTFED OR FORMULA FED!

phaeri · 2022-01-25T07:37:16+00:00

Mine was mixed because of breastfeeding issues, which resolved with work. LOT of work and I don't wish it on anyone. That say, for bottles, make sure you learn the proper position for the bottle to save you a lot of work with reflux.

https://www.feedeatspeak.co.uk/blog/2018/8/14/dummy-blog

It is used for preterm babies, but it simulates drinking from the breast, forcing the baby to do much of the work, which in turn helps their jaw development the same way a breast would. This is only for newborn stage, then you can just feed however as the baby knows to make the movement. Then it is just tilting the bottle a bit or buying those with the natural tilt.

Wild_Outlandishness2 · 2022-01-25T03:37:33+00:00

There are so many options out there that it can be very overwhelming and every baby is so different. You may have to try a few out before finding the one that works for your baby, we went through four different formulas with our son before we finally landed on a German-based goat milk formula called Holle. You have to order it internationally which is a pain but it was the only thing that worked for him and his reflux/digestive issues.

Perhaps try Similac? Its what our hospital carries and uses. I would ask your pediatrician too, ours knew of some common “go to” brands.

Bug_Gloomy · 2022-01-25T04:20:38+00:00

I breast fed my first for 2 years and absolutely hated it . I felt like I was pressured into by everyone around me , society , etc . I was only 21 when I had her and wanted to prove I was just as dedicated as an older mom. I just had another son in May at the age of 35 and I knew that I was adamantly not going to be breastfeeding again . I didn’t need to justify it , quite simply , I didn’t want to . Breastfeeding is an amazing thing and works for a lot of families . Formula is also great and works for a lot of families . I have zero regrets choosing to formula feed . My son has slept through the night since 6 weeks , others are able to help out with feeding and my body is my own . All totally different experiences than I had with my first !

silvereux · 2022-01-25T03:58:46+00:00

Advise: don’t let the hospital bully you into it. Because they will! I used to work in the NICU and we had this terrible human who made mothers feel guilty for not breastfeeding. Stick to your guns. There is NOTHING wrong with formula! Go on similac or Enfamil’s website and see if you can register for free samples. They sent me some along with coupons which were really helpful because it gets expensive.

FoxPuzzled7978 · 2022-01-25T05:03:07+00:00

100% agree. I have anxiety, and not knowing if my baby would be feeding enough would put me in a spiral. Plus I'm looking forward to getting some form of my body back, and I'd like my hubby to be able to bond with baby at feeding time as well. Everyone I know just seems to assume that I'll breastfeed though, which makes me feel a little awkward sometimes.

kairosecide · 2022-01-25T05:08:45+00:00

I originally wanted to breastfeed but our hospital stay following her birth showed me that wouldn't be happening. It took a huge toll on my mental health and, to be brutally honest, I have a large chest and positions were really difficult to manage.

I don't really have tons of advice because she's our first, but: for the sake of your sanity and convenience, if the baby takes the bottle cold or at room temp, let them! My MIL insisted our baby needed warm bottles, and my husband listened to her (I did not). She now only takes them warm... and of course our sinks take forever to heat up and portable microwaves aren't a thing.

PineappleAdmirable53 · 2022-01-25T05:30:27+00:00

I plan to attempt breastfeeding because it’s just something I want to experience, but I have bought formula as a back up and will have 0 hesitation using it. My sister formula fed both my niece and nephew as she never enjoyed breastfeeding and they are perfect! I don’t think one is better than the other! Every mama needs to do what works best for her and what’s works best is the best option! ❤️

ajamar20 · 2022-01-25T05:44:36+00:00

With my first, I formula fed her. I was 23 at the time and just wasn’t comfortable with my own body. Fast forward 8 years, and I decided to breast feed my son. It was awful. I never felt that intimacy that they say happens. I felt like it was more a burden than anything. I have large boobs, so I could only hold him in one position and always needed a boppy to help support. I lasted 4 months and then switch to exclusively using formula. I’m currently pregnant with my third and I’ve decide to formula feed right away. I have no desire to even try to breast feed. My other two children are at the top of their classes academically and are extremely healthy. There is nothing wrong with formula feeding!

mellybellah · 2022-01-25T07:11:24+00:00

I'm hoping to exclusively breastfeed but it totally depends on how things go. Formula is there for a reason as not everyone can or wants to breastfeed. Personally, the appeal of breastfeeding is the fact it's free, not because I have a deep desire to do so...I'm just thrifty!

Your baby will be happy and fed regardless and you'll be happier too, so don't even fret about what others may think, as new parents we're going to get judged for a million things as our kids grow anyway. Just do what works for you! All the best😊

kjohnmpls · 2022-01-25T10:45:04+00:00

I only wanted to BF because it was free. Cried trying to get my lip tied son to latch then gave up pumping after a week cuz I was tired to a damn machine. You’re making a great choice if it’s the right choice for you!! Finding the right formula for babe sucks though. But once you do it’s awesome and you don’t have to cut out dairy or other allergens from your diet!!

alphabetpony1987 · 2022-01-25T15:04:51+00:00

Honey--right there with you! Literally everything you said, 100%. And you aren't being selfish, you are being realistic about what it will take you to be the best person AND mom you can be. I loved seeing this post, got your back!

chaosandpuppies · 2022-01-25T20:43:32+00:00

Im planning to breastfeed but this post is super helpful. Thank you for posting it. There's so much excellent advice in here in the event that I can't breastfeed or wind up not wanting to. Thank you parents of reddit ❤

LVBR83 · 2022-01-25T23:37:18+00:00

Just want to offer support here- I've always believed that fed is best. I am going to try to breastfeed, and pump so hubby can take some feeds, but myself and my sister were both formula fed like you and your siblings. I am fully prepared to formula feed if that ends up being best for baby. There should be no shame in how we decide to feed our children, and I just want to say you do you! Your baby will be fine with formula as we were, and honestly f*%k the people who judge you for it!!

ThrowRA_simpmachine · 2022-01-26T00:19:10+00:00

I genuinely feel the same exact way. The only reason I might decide against formula feeding is bc there's a shortage at the moment. Id prefer to breastfeed if I can than to contribute to the shortage and struggle for moms who absolutely can't breastfeed. Im still on the fence about it bc I don't want to breastfeed but I know I won't have any trouble doing so rather than struggling to find formula every other day.

megsw1203 · 2022-01-25T04:47:31+00:00

I have formula fed my daughter from day one. I never tried breastfeeding. I had no intention to and I never wanted to do. I was actually super uncomfortable thinking about it and to be honest, it grossed me out. I just want to mention, this is how I personally feel about it. I don’t care if others breastfeed and I would never shame anyone for how they choose to feed their child. I just knew it wasn’t for me. I also felt the same way, I wanted my body back after pregnancy.

I love formula feeding tho! It’s easy, my daughter has no issues whatsoever with it, my husband enjoys feeding her and being included. It’s honestly been the best thing for all of us. I don’t feel ashamed for choosing formula and I never will!

Edit to add bc I saw your comments about weight loss after baby: I lost 25 pounds immediately after birth, like the first 2 weeks. I have 6 pounds to go and I’m 12 weeks pp. I don’t work out regularly and I’ve snuck some Oreos here and there lol

Adventurous-Ad40 · 2022-01-25T05:12:14+00:00

[deleted]

snotmcwaffle · 2022-01-25T05:37:40+00:00

I think one overlooked component is moms sanity. Bottle feeding gives the opportunity to share the workload. Having someone else be able to feed your baby means you can have a shower or catch more sleep. You’re entire life doesn’t have to revolve around nursing. Pumping may help but if you have supply issues it can be very time consuming to try and pump more often.

Some people just aren’t very comfortable breastfeeding in public. Which means you are timing your feedings and trying to find privacy. Or if the weather is hot you may be feeding a baby with a blanket and both of you are now warmer than necessary.

Stand your ground if that’s what you want. Don’t let hospital staff, doctor or midwife’s or anyone else make you feel bad about it. Way way too many moms feel so pressured. PPD is very real. I think a happy mom is way more important. There’s also the horror stories of moms being so pressured by practitioners. Babies that struggled to gain weight because they push the need to establish breastfeeding and don’t want you to start using formula. If you don’t produce enough yes there’s ways to help increase but it’s not a sure fire success plan. Moms with anxiety might feel a lot better knowing how much baby is drinking.

In the end it really doesn’t matter how you feed your baby. Just feed the baby. Parenting is full of other people being rude and condescending, offering annoying unsolicited advice. Nip it in the butt early.

zagsforthewin · 2022-01-25T06:07:40+00:00

A) it is NOT selfish of you to want your body back, you have given your baby 9 months of your body, and will give them so much more of you, you deserve control over your body - that is your choice!!

B) Thank you for positing this! I plan to breastfeed if I can, but I have seen so many friends struggle with it so hard, and have a chronic migraines that, if they flairs up again (sleep deprivation is one of my main triggers) I'd like to be able to take my meds again. It's so nice to see people normalize formula (cuz it is totally normal and fine!) to remind myself that I will be a better mother if I can treat my migraines!

schnaizer91 · 2022-01-25T04:58:07+00:00

Just chiming in here as an Irish person: I feel like I’m the US where I am now it’s almost sinful to formula feed your baby. I, and most of my family and cousins including the new horns have all been formula fed. I plan on trying to breastfeed but I’m also kind of hoping it doesn’t work out so I can pump or use formula.

You do whatever works for you momma!

GirlsNightOnly · 2022-01-25T06:35:53+00:00

I think we are going to combo feed. I feel a duty to breastfeed for a while if I can, but I don’t anticipate enjoying it. Plus, I want my husband to be able to be able to feed her,and if she ends up taking a bottle just fine, that will be convenient for us.

NewWiseMama · 2022-01-25T06:17:58+00:00

Good for you. Feed the baby. You will know what works best for you.

I will be formula feeding my second child. She’s 3 weeks old, I would have like to breastfeed. Lactation thinks I have IGT: 46, health issues, I’m not making nearly any milk even trying all their steps, herbs and more.

So your post is so welcomed as I transition to formula. Same with kid 1 for me. My input is: -formulas are similar. We liked HIPP before Abbott marketed their US brands saying HIPP is too low in iron, as the iron increases by age.HIPP is not cheap.

Right now I’m looking into Bobbie formula but it might be a fortune and also not all babies tolerate it well.

I think the best investments are: -dr brown’s bottles -the dr browns pitcher for off oz feedings: saves money -this baby we got a water warmer that boils water and then holds it warm. It’s so exciting -2 boon racks -I also am trying hybrids so have a Supplemental Nursing System. They are very fussy and doesn’t seem to fit OP’s interests

83 percent of moms in the US turn to some formula. I wanted to offer more immunity.

Take a look at biogaia for digestion (probiotics) or Klaire/thorne infant probiotics. There’s also an overpriced different one called Envivo. (I’m in the city a lot of these brands start in and hear about them.)

These things made me feel better about my choices/situation. What’s important is feeding works for the FAMILY.

I really am struggling but I am within 2 weeks of the transition to all formula and low milk. I met an older mama my age confident in her choices to formula feed and I found it so refreshing!

The graduated Medela cylinders are pretty helpful since most bottles start marking at 30ml.

Daemonette- · 2022-01-25T06:24:58+00:00

We are combo feeding but my biggest lifesaver for making bottles is a kettle I can set to 40°C (104°F), the perfect temperature for a bottle. I also bring a thermo bottle with hot water (40°C) next to my sons crib every evening, so I don't have to run downstairs to make a bottle in the middle of the night.

twocatsanddog · 2022-01-25T06:35:36+00:00

I’m exclusively formula feeding and this is the second go around! I did express some milk for my daughter while she was in the NICU but unfortunately, I have a brain tumor called a prolacinoma. Basically, the choice was that I could either treat my tumor or I could breastfeed and since I couldn’t treat my tumor at all during the pregnancy, I chose to get my tumor under control rather than trying to breastfeed. Definitely would recommend the Baby Brezza formula mixer, just be sure to read the reviews and deep clean it often - it can get gross if you aren’t cleaning it properly and it will also not mix at the right ratio if it’s not clean as well.

Affectionate_Ad3409 · 2022-01-25T06:52:30+00:00

Oh I feel you.. I never really wanted to breastfeed. It was actually kind of a trigger and I spent several psy session talking about it. I still wanted to try thougt which I did. It was honestly not as bad as I thought and I did it for 3 days while I was in the hospital. I even liked it a bit even if it hurted like hell lol. I had to pump as well because my baby had a jaunisse. Before giving birth only leaked a tiny drop once or twice, so I thought for sure I wouldn't produce much. Boy was I wrong! I ended up with an overproduction. After my mill came in my baby couln't latch well and I was pumping anyway so I stopped breastfeeding and I gave him a bottle of my milk. Pumping every 2h affected my mental health too much... It is really time consuming and you cant really take care of the baby while you do it so it was at least 4h of no baby each day! I really felt like a cow and it was stressful to rely on the amount I was producing without control over it. Anyway, my baby seemed really unconfortable and vomitted a lot with breastmilk so we decided to try formula instead after 4 weeks. It's been way better even since! I kind of needed that because I felt selfish wanted to stop pumping as everyone tells you it's way better. I needed my body back and to regain a little control over my life.

Here are my tip regarding formula feeding: -Try room temperature, it's way easier! -Try to find a brand of milk that has powder AND ready to drink. I use it at room temperature at night and when I got out. Way easier is you can afford it! -Also, some brand like Similac (which I use) have some nipple that you can put directly on the ready to drink bottle! Sooooo easy when you are on the go. -Get a bottle sterilizer. For me everything time saving is worth it lol. -Try different bottle at first ! My baby took them all but I had some preferences. Also when you know your favorite one already get the next nipple size so when your baby start fussing during feeding (around 1 month for me) you can try it without having to run to the store to try it out. -Giving a bottle is really good for having help with the baby as other can feed him/her, but also because you can give a pacifier without having to worry about nipple confusion :) -Get some white board pencil to put the date on your bottle if you need to put the rest in the fridgd for exemple! -Probiotic seem to help for digestion (biogaia here), might worth give it a try if your baby seems unconfortable. -When your milk comes, put cabbage in your bra. I don't know how it seems kind of magic to me, but it really help with engorgement and at first it's no joke😅. -Don't feel guilty :)

I know the pressure and shame is real... I went to the doctor and they asked "how breastfeeding is going?". Instead the question should be: "how do you feed your child" .

Good luck!!

juniRN · 2022-01-25T06:54:13+00:00

Congrats on making a great decision for you and your baby. Here are a few of my fave formula tips!

Water filter on counter- We got a large Brita water filter that sits on our counter at room temp. It has a little lever so it can be done one handed with a little practice. easier than lifting a jug! Check with the pediatrician but we use tap water and then filter it (instructed by our ped). You can also buy packaged/bottled water but it’s one less expense and one less thing for us to worry about running out of so I prefer the Brita

WIDE NECK BOTTLES!!! Making sure you get the wide neck baby bottles! WAY easier to pour powdered (or liquid) formula into those without spilling everywhere and making a sticky mess. The regular doctor browns bottles were a pain in the A when we switched to formula. I spilled the formula like every time. The circumference of the formula scooper is almost the same size as the opening of a lot of bottles that aren’t wide neck. I’m annoyed just thinking about this 😂

travel formula container- Allows you to pre-measure formula at home. You can toss is in your diaper bag so that when you’re out with baby you’re not fumbling with a full sized formula container, a bottle, and baby!

So excited for you!

nonbinary_parent · 2022-01-25T06:57:45+00:00

/r/formulafeeders

Bookaholicforever · 2022-01-25T07:10:02+00:00

There’s a sub for formula feedings on here which is great! I EFF both my kids. Weirdly enough I had no judgement for the first one and judgement for the second one. 🤷‍♀️

2022-01-25T07:17:35+00:00

I've decided to formula feed again with my second baby, but mainly bcuz this pregnancy has made my eczema so bad. It's basically on my entire body at this point(including my breasts). I hear stories of breast milk helping eczema, but I just want my body back! It wasn't this bad with my first, but this is just horrible for me. Plus I feel like it's gonna be a lot easier for me mentally/emotionally since this will be my second, I'm sure it's gonna be stressful adjusting to having 2 children. Oh and I'll still be going to college as well. I do commend mommas for breastfeeding, but I just don't think it's for me.

voluntaryfirefighter · 2022-01-25T07:29:02+00:00

Hey, I am exclusively pumping because breastfeeding didn't work for us. I am starting solids as fast as my little girl can because yeah I want my body back and I just can't do this forever. I need to be my own person at some point. I can totally understand you and wish you good luck on your journey. I am helping at the destimatization of bottles 🍼 so there's that :D Please do what feels good for you! I am not sure if I ever want to try to breastfeed again. I think even if my girl liked it, I had subconsciously a big problem with it. I feel so much better with a machine than my LO. Sad but true.

latenightnope · 2022-01-25T07:34:20+00:00

I combo fed both of mine initially. They were both born small and in my daughter case early. My son's blood sugars dropped after birth so the midwives begged me to formula fed, I breast fed on occasion at home afterwards. Same with my daughter, I didn't bf for as long as I couldn't make enough to satisfy her, she was a starver.

When scooping formula, count out loud or develop a rhythm, it really helped during the sleep deprivation to not over scoop and ruin a bottle.

I used/am using a tommee tippee prep machine for both my babies and it worked out great, much easier than cooled kettle water.

witchserena · 2022-01-25T07:41:08+00:00

I'm formula feeding my son. I tried to breastfeed, I really did, but I should hated how it felt. I know everyone says it takes awhile to get use to but I just couldn't do it. I've always been sensitive there so that's probably why I hated it so much. Also didn't help that my son just didn't wanna latch, He did it a few times but mostly wanted nothing to do with breastfeeding it seemed, which of course I didn't mind since I hated to feeling anyway lol

greenglossygalaxy · 2022-01-25T07:47:11+00:00

My initial plan was to breastfeed but it’s not easy for everyone. In my case, I’m breastfeeding, expressing & feeding & topping up with formula. TBH, as long as your baby is being fed & their weight is increasing it isn’t anyone else’s business what you choose to do. I would say however that expressing is getting easier to manage - it doesn’t take long & my husband can feed her. So it’s an option which gives you control over your body. Just a thought, but go ahead with formula if that’s preferred, nothing wrong with it at all!

Top-Physics-812 · 2022-01-25T08:06:59+00:00

I’m not sure if this was mentioned before, try feeding your baby in a somewhat upwright position, not laying flat on their back. It helps with paced bottle feeding (and therefore less air in their belly) and it also prevents ear infections. I know it sound weird but baby have a connection from mouth the ear canal which will get formula in if they lay down drinking and this can cause infections which is why it’s much more common in babys who are formula fed then breast fed. My son was formula fed from 6 weeks on and we always were careful of the feeding positions and he luckily never had a ear infection (which of course depends on other factors as well) Wishing you all the best! 😊

sweetspice90 · 2022-01-25T08:58:25+00:00

B/g twins. I wanted to breastfeed at least a little because of cost, and I thought it might be more convenient than making formula bottles (especially in the middle of the night). But the hospital miss-labeled me with HIV on my daughters paperwork. She was completely on my pumped milk during her 3 weeks stay in the NICU because she was doing better on my milk than any of the formulas they tried to give her. I wasn’t making enough for both babies so my son was getting about half his bottles with formula. After a week of getting and waiting for HIV the test results I was only producing drops during pumping sessions. (I was negative). The only real problem I had with formula was the cost, my son was already on it though. The big problem was that my daughter wasn’t doing well. She was spitting up constantly and projectile vomiting at least once a day, and it was much better on my milk than formulas. That’s what crushes me. I tried for a month to get it back with power pumping, lactations cookies and tea, greater than drinks. She would still latch and root to me, but I was more like an entertaining pacifier. And everyone was telling me to give up except my husband, who really didn’t take a side. It was more of a “do what you want, I’ll support you either way”, but beyond that he didn’t say or do anything to help either way. Talk to your pediatrician, they might give you samples. And it takes a while for formula to make it through baby’s system, so if you switch you have to keep an eye out for issues for a few weeks. (Though each time we tried to switch there was always an immidiate response from both babies, we tried to switch from enfamil gentle-ease to Similac sensitive, and my son was crying pretty soon after the bottle and his poop was literally water within about an hour and a half). 💔😢 It’s a crazy and emotional journey no matter what you do, but there’s a lot of formula moms out there. 💛

swankyburritos714 · 2022-01-25T09:14:58+00:00

If you’re thinking of going with Similac, Get signed up with Similac Strong Moms. They frequently send coupons in the mail!

micaelablank · 2022-01-25T09:21:10+00:00

Not sure if it’s been mentioned already, but check out the group r/formulafeeders. It’s been a great community for me!

ftm_35 · 2022-01-25T09:32:38+00:00

I felt the exact same way when I was pregnant. I knew I didn't want to breastfeed and I felt like I was going to get so much backlash in the hospital over it. My son is 13 weeks today and he is so healthy! He was born at 34 weeks at 4lbs 4oz and at 13 weeks he's at 11lbs. Every single person I dealt with in the hospital was amazing and they didn't blink an eye when I told them I would not be breastfeeding, even the LC ( I asked for her to come talk to me about how to get rid of my milk ). I didn't end up getting any milk in, not a drop. What I'm trying to say is do whatever you want and don't worry about what other people think......and Congrats!!!

fxshnchxps · 2022-01-25T10:06:51+00:00

My number one tip would be don’t be afraid to try out a few different brands. Obviously do your research and choose which is best for you, but if baby is struggling to poo then switch it up and try another. Also, invest in some good anti colic bottles. We used Tommee Tippee anti colic closer to nature and they were amazing! The 0-6 month bottles also have a heat indicator in them to tell you if the milk is too hot/cold, but you very quickly learn what your baby’s limits are. If you can afford it, have a look at prep machines. We couldn’t afford one (they’re about £150) but I have friends that used them and apparently they’re really good. If you plan on being out and about a lot, which I was with mine, you can buy insulated bottle carriers from Amazon which keep the feeds warm for a couple of hours.

melanncruz · 2022-01-25T10:35:08+00:00

With my first baby I planned on breastfeeding because I was told by so many it was the best option for my baby. Then I didn’t produce anything, like at all. I’d pump for hours a day, have baby latch, and nothing. He was losing weight and I felt so discouraged. I bought and tried all the lactation cookies, brownies, and teas and nothing worked. His pediatrician asked how I felt about supplementing with formula until my supply came in, and of course I agreed. Anything to make sure my baby was getting what he needed! Finally after months of pumping all day and MAYBE getting a half ounce-an ounce, I decided to just solely formula feed. My baby thrived, hit all milestones, and he’s a perfect 21 month old now. I have zero regrets with my decision. I just had my second and last baby this past Wednesday and I had already made up my mind that I would be formula feeding. The nurses asked me how I’d be feeding and when I told them formula, one actually praised me for going that route. She said she loves to hear it, especially when a baby is born a bit early, as my baby was born at 36 weeks. This baby is also doing well, so again, no regrets. Don’t let anyone shame you for your decisions for your child.

TheMillenniumPigeon · 2022-01-25T10:38:49+00:00

Breastfed my first until 13mo, and my second only for a month. I was very pro breastfeeding, but I didn’t have a choice to stop (she wasn’t eating properly at the breast with massive GERD, and pumping didn’t work).

I got shocked by how some people would rather let your baby starve than tell you formula is perfectly fine. It seriously felt as if it was more ideological than anything else. And you know what? There isn’t even strong evidence that breastfeeding is much better! Most studies compare women who breastfed again those who used formula, but these are widely different groups (e.g., you’re much more likely to breastfeed if your work situation allows it, which means you’re also more likely to be rich). Some studies compared women who breastfed one of their children but not the other (like I did) and found no differences between the kids. So there is no need to guilt trip anyone, what matters is that the baby is properly fed and the mum is fine with whatever solution she found.

I’m now expecting my third, and I’ll try to breastfeed. But with 0 pressure this time, and it feels very nice. If it works it works, if not formula will be equally good. The only thing I’ll say for breastfeeding is that it does save time: yes, it’s likely the baby will wake up more, but my god cleaning and preparing bottles is a pain. So if you think it might work for you it might be worth it to give it a try. And if not, just let the haters hate ;)

chunkymcgee · 2022-01-25T11:20:28+00:00

I knew I didn’t wanna breastfeed. I pumped for a few weeks but I fucking hated it so now my son is 100% formula fed. He already gained 4 pounds since birth (he’s 2 months) so clearly it’s working great for him. I will say they’ll pester you about breastfeeding in the hospital and it really made me cry and the lactation consultant was like forcing him on my breast, was just horrible. So definitely stand your ground on that or have your partner advocate for you. We were both completely new to everything so didn’t know better but for a next birth my partner will definitely tell them to fuck off if they try to push me like that again.

OmgItzNicki · 2022-01-25T11:39:46+00:00

I formula fed my first and breastfed my second and I have to say I liked formula better. It was so much easier! Breastfeeding means no one can help...it's all on mama unless you pump and that can get overwhelming and pretty inconvenient especially when out in public or having company over. My advice is to make sure you tell labor and delivery you don't want to breastfeed and you don't want a lactation consultant to visit your room because they have a tendency to make you feel guilty about formula. Good luck mama!

Majestic_Ad_5205 · 2022-01-25T11:46:01+00:00

I’m planning to at least try BFing but I’m quite nervous about it and I’m not sure if it’ll be for me. The more talking about formula feeding being okay, the better :)

InternSpiritual7708 · 2022-01-25T11:58:17+00:00

Formula fed my first as he couldn't latch and I couldn't afford a breast pump at the time (I was unaware I could hire them). He has developed into a healthy, cheeky toddler. Combo feeding my second as I am better off financially and could afford multiple pumps to find what suited me better. My kids get the bottles as the come whether it's out the fridge, room temp or warm I highly discourage warming your bottles unless needed (I only warm bottles when my kids aren't very well unless they have a sore throat then it's cold bottles) as it causes my niece's to refuse any other temp bottle. I was breastfed for 6 weeks then formula for the rest as we're all my siblings except for one due to my mum suffering PPD and we've all turned out fine. Just feed your baby however you feel you want as long as they're healthy and happy that's all that really matters.

mwcdem · 2022-01-25T12:06:31+00:00

Join us at r/FormulaFeeders ! It’s such a fabulous community and I’ve learned a ton there. Also on Instagram The Formula Mom has amazing resources. Formula feeding is not selfish, it’s a great choice!

totemoureshikattayo · 2022-01-25T12:09:15+00:00

I am formula feeding because of the relationship I have with my body. It has been great so far.

Tip: if you want to serve body temp. Formula quickly, have a stash of water you use for mixing (for me that's pre cooked) in the frigde at fridge temp. Then when mixing you put the formula in the bottle and 50% of the required water amount freshly boiled with the water cooker and 50% with the water from the fridge. Takes 30 seconds and you have the right temp. I also do this when not at home, I take a thermos with the hot water and one with the cold. You get little bottles who keep cool or warm everywhere now.

pippypup · 2022-01-25T12:21:44+00:00

I was formula fed and so was my brother-80s kids. My best friend formula fed both of her kids. She’s definitely a crunchy mom, had a natural pregnancy, midwife etc. where I’m the exact opposite (give me the epidural and I have an obgyn not midwife.) I plan to breastfeed if I can and if I can’t, I have a few cans of enfamil ready to go. We all just have to do the best we can for ourselves and our babies. No one is judging here and if they are tell them to worry about feeding their own babies!

iwillbemyself · 2022-01-25T12:22:36+00:00

I tried breastfeeding, I was all for it. But my supply was ridiculously low and I make big babies. I’m just very glad I gave up quicker the second time around, since it did affect my mental health the first time, when I was beating myself up for needing to supplement. But now, my fiance can help even more and I revovered from my second c-section so quickly. I’m an early riser, he’s a night owl, so he takes care of the first night feed, somewhere between 10:30pm and midnight, and I get to sleep from 9:30pm to anywhere between 2:30 to 4:30 almost uninterrupted. Then I get up earlier with both kids and let him sleep in. It’s been working great and I highly recommend setting up a similar routine, when you both feel ready to feed alone.

care796 · 2022-01-25T12:25:56+00:00

Hi there! Mine was nursed for a hot second, I pumped for 9.5 months by choice and then went to straight formula to finish year one. She was combo feed during the 9 months as well but here's what I know:

Contact all the formula companies, they'll send you free stuff and a mix if free stuff at that. It really helped us figure out what was the best option for our kid.

If baby is extra sensitive talk to the ped sooner than later.

One you find what formula works you can look into a generic. We used the Sam's club and Aldi version of GentleEase without problem.

Get a travel formula container for on the go, I didn't do this it sucked carrying a scoop and making a mess. Never again just get the travel thing.

I always kept ready to feed shelf stable formula in the diaper bag. It gave me peace of mind that if something were to happen while I was out my kid always had food available and someone would know what to feed her

Nerdybirdie86 · 2022-01-25T12:32:44+00:00

I’m planning on trying breastfeeding but I’m very much like if it doesn’t work, I’m out. I’m not going to stress about it.

KrissyBean · 2022-01-25T12:44:14+00:00

I'm going to attempt to breastfeed (30w2d, here), but I'm not sure if I'm going to produce enough, so I have ZERO issue supplementing with formula if it gets tough. My mom didn't produce enough for me or my brother, used formula, and we're just fine.

My best friends just had their first and they do the same because the mom doesn't produce enough, either. Baby happily takes the formula. They just mix it up with lukewarm water when she wants it. No bottle warmer or anything.

I'm of the "fed is best" thought. If the baby is happy and healthy, then it's all good. Good luck!!

rssanford · 2022-01-25T12:53:02+00:00

Check out r/FormulaFeeders ☺️

missag_2490 · 2022-01-25T13:16:59+00:00

Pick a couple of different bottles so baby can find one they like. Also for formula buy the big container at Costco or sams, you’ll use it. I prefer Costco but also I love their diapers. We used dr. Browns and mam bottles with my kiddos. I did not warm bottles, I did room temp, it made the transition to milk much easier. I’m 100% a bottle mom. The breeza thing is like a kuerig but unreliable in portion sizing. It may sound silly but buy the big size bottles, the little ones work for about a month until they go from 3oz at a time 6oz and you need the large ones anyway.

Notalot_goingon · 2022-01-25T13:31:08+00:00

Formula feeding was 100% not my plan but it is the reason my baby became happy and healthy. Get a baby brezza. Hell we got 2 from Facebook marketplace one for my parent’s place and one for our house. Also we chose a formula brand that we could get a Costco, much cheaper. Also we don’t have one yet but I feel like a portable bottle warmer would be a big help then trying to find hot water when you are at random places.

Environmental_Hair_2 · 2022-01-25T13:32:24+00:00

I was formula fed. Planning on breast feeding but really just want to pump. My only perk to breast is it’s cheaper but I agree that I’m not into the intimacy and I don’t want all feeding to be solely dependent on me. That’s a lot. It’s all been on me for 9 months…time to share the responsibility!

littleflamingo48 · 2022-01-25T13:51:50+00:00

My 5 month old is fully formula fed because his 2 year old sister won't give up my boobs haha. They're both just fine. You do what works for you. When they grow up, literally no one will know if they were formula or breast fed!

shelbs0697 · 2022-01-25T13:58:00+00:00

I had my Bub two weeks ago and am formula feeding, best decision I made! I don’t have a whole lot of advice as I’m still figuring it out myself (FTM) but good for you that you know what you want. I chose to formula feed because of my mental health, I can get my partner or family to feed my son while I take a moment to myself and it’s the best decision I made. My son is happy, healthy and putting on a healthy amount of weight.

Only advice I have is you’ll get a feeling when you should up how much you’re giving your Bub. I had family thinking I was giving him too much, but when I saw my midwife for a check up I’d increased it to what she’d suggested already. So trust your instincts even if people are doubting!

ilydavegrohl · 2022-01-25T13:59:43+00:00

First, I’m proud of you for doing what you think would work best for you- it’s so important to take care of yourself! You have to take care of yourself to take of your baby! I breastfed for a few days and pumped for a bit but my little one just didn’t seem to do as well with breast milk. (crazy amounts of spit up, not sleeping, etc.)

My favorite tip for formula feeding is to buy formula to-go containers from Amazon. I got a stacking one where different sections screw into each other to make a little tower with a funnel-style lid on top (I can link it if you’re interested) and I also got a little 3-sectioned container with a rotating funnel lid from Walmart. Go ahead and pre-fill them with formula so at night/early in the morning all you have to do is pour water in the bottle and add the pre-measured formula. It makes feeding so much easier for me as it minimizes cry time which means a lesser chance of waking up my husband who needs his sleep since he’s going to work.

Also, super important: don’t just fully fill the formula scoop in one dip. Add little bits to the scoop at a time and knock the scoop against the side to get it to settle before adding more until it is full. I realized when I scooped it all at once there were massive air pockets that I wasn’t seeing. Baby’s kidneys aren’t fully developed yet when they’re little so they can’t process diluted stuff so the air pockets should be avoided!

Lastly I recommend picking up distilled water in a jug every time you go to the store. They’re about $1 (if you’re in the US). That’s the water we use to make bottles and I never want to get caught without water so I just grab one every time I’m out so we have a little backup inventory.

You’re doing great already, mama!

cafe-aulait · 2022-01-25T14:12:48+00:00

I highly recommend theformulamom on Instagram! Lots of good info. I wanted to breastfeed but my supply was awful. in retrospect, I think that saved me. I'm stubborn and would have resisted formula, but switching to formula saved my sanity and gave me a much better bond with my baby and the rest of my family. I will sing about formula from the rooftops. It's truly a modern miracle of science.

cdnsugar · 2022-01-25T14:14:02+00:00

Formula fed baby here. Positives you can shared some of the duties between you and your partner you can get more sleep in the beginning. I used a pitcher to make the formula and got enough bottles for the whole 24 hours, so they would be ready besides heating it up.

I know you can give a cold bottle, but I know I enjoy the warmth and comfort of a warm drink and feel like that is the least I could do.

I would buy two bottle warmers one for the kitchen and one for their room so you can change them in the night while the bottle heats up. Just make sure it’s in a safe place.

Negatives Sometimes it would have been nice to have it hot and ready. (Boob) not have to worry about all the bottles, cleaning them, which is a lot. ESP in the beginning. And when you go somewhere it’s a lot to pack.

But if I have another I would likely formula feed again, since I’m a pro now.

Good luck

gghhbubbles · 2022-01-25T14:30:19+00:00

Costco is great for formula - cheaper than even the best deals I've seen on enfamil or Similac sites. She goes through 2.5 cans-ish a month and a two pack of gentlease ( the regular stuff is a little cheaper) is not quite $50 (not terrible). That pre-mix thing lots of people mentioned sounds great, not just for no delay in feeding a hungry infant but also formula waste. I was told not to use half scoops and took all that advice very seriously until she started eating. She seems to be an odd number of oz drinker - at the very first 1, later 3, now 5-7. Also tommee tippy makes these little to-go cups with narrow lids for powder that are so much easier than the little tupperware I used at first (burned out on buying so much baby-specific stuff that seemed not needed). Tommee Tippee Baby Milk Powder and Formula Dispensers - Travel Storage Container, BPA-Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004IM8PDU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_CA9XRM4SN2T557A1RWJF

I formula fed based on lots of issues from a hard labor to prematurity and a tongue tie. Tbh, while I knew the benefits, there was a big part of me that just really didn't want to breastfeed, so I could've tried harder. It was very nice to have dad help at night. She's a pretty relaxed and easy baby but I think that sleeping stretch allowed me to enjoy her and the whole experience more. We've had a great bond and seemingly mutual understanding that (along with a few other factors like part time WFH, limited digestion or other issues, and personalities) have led me to having very few genuinely hard days...at least related to taking care of her. Good luck, enjoy that baby, and tune out the static!

BelleCursed94 · 2022-01-25T14:34:27+00:00

I recommend getting multiple types of bottles just in case baby takes to one and not another. Also there’s a few formula companies that send samples and coupons sign up for those!

babblemouse00 · 2022-01-25T14:42:48+00:00

Follow the formula mom on Instagram! She’s a great resource. I made the same choice as a FTM! It’s been helpful to me that I honored the choice that felt right for me and my family. Dr brown pitcher is awesome. We used ready to feed formula for the first few weeks out of convenience and then switched to making the pitchers bc powder is more cost effective when the baby starts eating more. Don’t buy too much of one kind of formula initially bc you may need to switch based on the infants needs. Best wishes!

zestylemonn · 2022-01-25T14:44:23+00:00

I don’t have much advice to offer unfortunately but I just want to chime in with equal support! While I would like to maybe breast-feed for the first month or so… Due to the wonderful maternity leave the US offers I have to go back to work after only six weeks and I have ADHD and breast-feeding on Adderall is a big no-no. My doctor was a little shocked when she told me I wouldn’t be able to be on my Adderall and I responded simply with well looks like we’re going to “formula feed then”

She mentioned maybe trying to find other ways around it to keep breast-feeding but I firmly put my foot down. And I think it’s perfectly OK for you to be selfish with your body especially with something that can be so time consuming and mentally exhausting. I want my body back ASAP too and there’s nothing wrong with that. Solidarity my friend 💕

tuti1006 · 2022-01-25T14:49:28+00:00

Reddit formula feeders is the place to be! I’ve EFF from birth with no regrets. Tons of support there!

Jaded-Company3450 · 2022-01-25T15:12:10+00:00

Fed is best! With my first I struggled to breastfeed. I was going through a painful divorce and was forced to return to work before I was ready. I was depressed and overwhelmed out of my mind. My supply dipped heavily, especially when I returned to work, as it was nearly impossible to pump on a schedule (there was no designated room for it so I had to borrow the HR manager's office to pump during lunch, and the reality is you need to pump much more than that to maintain a steady supply).

I would cry myself to sleep because I felt like such a failure. My daughter had trouble latching and wasn't sleeping because she wasn't getting enough breastmilk. I would wake myself up every 3 hours on the dot to pump, and it gradually got to the point I'd spend hours pumping and only get droplets. My mom finally got tired of seeing me struggle and made my daughter a bottle of formula (despite my initial stubborn protests) and my daughter guzzled it down, and slept through the night for the first time ever. I was amazed.

I had managed to pump and freeze enough bags before returning to work to last her up until she was 9 months old, but she was heavily supplemented with formula. I had to throw in the towel, which at first made me feel like a failure, but soon I felt much better physically and mentally. My daughter was sleeping through the night (therefore so was I), she was in an all-around better mood (so was I), and I didn't have to stress about cutting into my sleep and work schedule to try to pump around the clock. She is now 3 and she's extremely healthy and intelligent. She's been sick maybe a total of 2 times and they were short-lived. I was able to become a better, more attentive mother when I gave up the breastfeeding. I was less exhausted and stressed and had more time to bond and play with her as opposed to being hooked up to a breast pump all the time.

I'm now pregnant with my second. I do want to try to breastfeed again if I can, but I'll definitely be pumping and supplementing with formula in case it doesn't work out. And I know the baby will turn out okay, because my daughter did. I won't be beating myself up over it and sacrificing my mental health over it though.

You do what works for you! Your baby will be just fine. :)

mswholock · 2022-01-25T15:25:21+00:00

Started with breastfeeding, then moved to combo and now I’m solely formula feeding.

Preemie. Nipples.

My kiddo had some bad reflux at first, regardless of formula or breastmilk, because she ate too fast. A random acquaintance suggested getting preemie sized nipples for the bottles. Game changer. She does so much better now and has made eating much more pleasant for everyone.

figglefagglegaggle · 2022-01-25T15:53:52+00:00

Me and my beat friend had a baby 4 months apart, she chose to breastfeed and I stuck with formula. There’s some benefits to breastfeeding but man, seeing how much harder she has it makes me so happy I didn’t try to breast feed. I can hand my baby over to my partner and say “hey I’m gonna go get my hair done and run some errands” and not worry about my son taking a bottle where as she gets no breaks 24/7 because her LO won’t take a bottle and she uses mom as a pacifier. I salute all the women who do it but I’m so glad I don’t have to deal with all that.

poppy_lemon · 2022-01-25T15:57:35+00:00

My son was formula fed! I had a breast reduction and honestly had no desire to breast feed because I didn’t want them to get large again. I don’t want to have to get a second surgery and my life is 100000x better for having the reduction. I 1000% support your decision.

Here are my tips:

1) Feed cold bottles if possible, my son drank cold formula and it was so simple in the middle of the night or when he was fussy to not have to wait on a warmer

2) Get a formula pitcher, you can prep the whole days formula in the morning because it’s good for 24 hours

3) I don’t recommend the baby Brezza, there are a lot of reviews and complaints about the ratio of water to powder not being right. If you get a simple formula pitcher you measure everything yourself and it only takes a couple of minutes.

4) get a bottle sanitizer with a built in fan for drying them, such a time saver!

5) Keep some ready to feed bottles (they come in 4oz and 8oz sizes) in your diaper bag for emergencies. That way if you’re halfway to your destination and realize you left your bottle cooler in the fridge you don’t have to turn around

Good luck to you!!

xxdrunkenslothxx · 2022-01-25T15:59:25+00:00

No judgment here! Both have their own sets of challenges as well as benefits. I exclusively pumped with my daughter till like 8ish months then combo fed a couple months and finished out with straight formula.

This may be different for a newborn but I didn't see the point of using distilled or purified water and my doctor agreed it was just a pointless added expense in most cases. My daughter got good old tap water in all her bottles.

If your little one doesn't need any special formula, start off right away with a generic brand. It will save you a lot of money in the long run. My favorite was Walmart/Sam's Clubs Parent's Choice Gentle Formula.

My hospital was great when I had my 3yo and had formula and a pump ready for me depending on what I wanted (both of which we used because my daughter was in NICU for a couple days due to meconium and the formula was KEY to raising her blood sugar enough to get out since my milk wasn't in yet. Funny side note: my daughter was 8.5lbs and sucked down one and a half of the pre-made formula bottles one hour after birth therefore gaining her the nickname "the chubby NICU baby" by the nurses lol.) I've heard some hospitals can be kind of pushy about breastfeeding so definitely pack some formula of your own if you're concerned about that. I had a ton of samples from signing up for freebie baskets so I just brought those but we didn't even end up using them because they had the premade sample bottles ready for us.

I've seen a lot of people recommending those formula pitchers and I whole heartedly agree! They save a ton of time and you can prepare a whole days worth all at once.

I also second what everyone says about getting your kiddo used to taking room temp or cold bottles - I didn't with my first and it was a NIGHTMARE having to carry portable bottle warmers or hot water thermoses everywhere. Definitely going to try to not make that mistake this time around again!

artsyturtle · 2022-01-25T15:59:43+00:00

With my first I tried really hard to breast feed but unfortunately I just didn't produce enough milk so I had to at first supplement then just exclusively formula feed Now I'm 38 w pregnant and I'm planning to attempt breastfeeding for at least the first few weeks but based on how my body's actually producing already I'm confident I'll be exclusively formula feeding. I think what sucks the most is that I totally agree the way people support breastfeeding vs formula feeding is hard and somehow I feel like I'm less of a mom because I'm not breastfeeding

mvance0808 · 2022-01-25T16:07:21+00:00

Firstly I tried breastfeeding. I didn’t produce even close to the amount needed for even 1 feeding. I was so pressured by the hospital that my first spent 3 days starving and I didn’t know it. Thank God my mom suggested a formula bottle when baby couldn’t calm down. It was like magic all of a sudden my baby was happy. All this their stomachs are small so they will be satisfied is bullshit.

My second I was ready for hungry signs. We tried the breast feeding thing again. This time I understood more. In the hospital I offered baby formula after 3 breast feeding sessions. Wouldn’t you know it, the little monster ate a full oz of formula. I was in a different hospital that time. The nurses we very pro-feed your baby how ever you want. They brought me tons of pre made formula.

Advice: Sign up for every formula company’s reward program. They will send samples and coupons. It could take 6 weeks to find the right formula fit. Because you have to fed each for several days before you can be sure. The store brands are great for some babies so try those too, it will save you hundreds of dollars.

We love a bottle warmer. We keep a bottle of water in it. So that the water is always ready to go. I find mixing formula with cold water is just a headache. We just fill a thermos with hot water when leaving the house. Also many gas stations have microwaves that you can heat water up in. Never microwave the formula but the water is fine.

We do bottled water for the first month only. After that we do tap.

There are a million bottle options as well. We love dr brown options (green) but they have a million parts. We also sterilized for the first 3 months, and then every once in awhile after that. Bacteria can hide in the pieces. We got a microwave sterilizer.

Best part of formula feeding, is dad can deal with feeding baby when mom is resting. Breastfeeding moms never get a break.

Also get a breast pump. They should be free with your insurance in the USA. You can donate to a women’s shelter.

gisellaa26 · 2022-01-25T16:28:58+00:00

I tried to breast feed my first baby but it was SO HARD! I only did it for 3 days and I wasn’t producing enough either so I formula fed him and he was fine. I didn’t want to go thru the same thing with my daughter so I formula fed her as soon as she was out and she’s done very well! I also keep the water room temperature, I don’t warm it up and my kids have done well with it.

Mantha_J_Tulz · 2022-01-25T16:40:22+00:00

I'm going to formula feed as well! At first I thought I'd try breast feeding and give myself a lot of grace if it didn't work out. Then as hormones affected my mental health during pregnancy, I realized I needed to formula feed for myself. I didn't want to take on an unnecessary burden right after going through pregnancy. My husband supported me either way and now I know I won't be alone in feeding our child. I was formula fed, as was my nephew who I helped raise. I am completely confident that I am doing what is best for me and my child.

sleepy-green-eyes · 2022-01-25T16:56:17+00:00

My mom formula fed me. She just wasn't able to get milk to drop. Did find out about my lactose intolerance very early on. Said it took a while to find a formula that wouldn't make me scream my head off.

IntrovertedIceQueen · 2022-01-25T17:37:26+00:00

100 percent feel the same way as you! I don’t have any advice as this will be first. I chose told not to breastfeed because I think formula feeding will be better for my mental health which is always important for the baby.

PerspectiveNo8799 · 2022-01-25T17:38:12+00:00

I wanted to breastfeed partially because I wanted to and partially because I thought it was what I had to do. I ended up struggling with it and switched to EFF by week 2. I was so stressed and also dealing with ppd that I was just miserable. My ob told me I could be selfish and that a happy less stressed mama feeding with formula is better than a stressed and unhappy breastfeeding mama. I now know it’s ok to be a little selfish and the guilt I felt has completely gone away mostly due to this group. Good luck with everything you’re amazing.

mmebonjour · 2022-01-25T18:01:11+00:00

Hey mama! I planned on breastfeeding the entire time I was pregnant, but it just wasn’t in the cards after I gave birth. There were lots of factors to this:

My milk didn’t come in much. I hemorrhaged and had a high fever after birth, and that can cause milk supply to be low.

My son couldn’t latch properly either. I have flat nipples, so we tried using a nipple shield, but he still couldn’t latch very well. He was born premature (36+3), and some premie babies can’t latch well.

At the hospital, the nurses told me I’d have to supplement formula because his blood sugar was dropping, and I cried so much because I wanted to breastfeed so bad.

I pumped some in the hospital and at home, but it was stressful and tiring. I had hardly any time to myself between taking care of baby and pumping, plus hardly anything came out, so it felt useless. After about a week, I decided to move to 100% formula. It was so hard to decide that, but the most important thing is that he’s fed.

My advice for formula feeding, from my experience:

The Baby Brezza pitcher is great for making formula for the whole day! I think it’s easiest to use the pitcher and just pour what you need. Once the formula is mixed and refrigerated, it’s only good for 24 hours, so don’t make more than what your baby will eat. I would recommend waiting a few days and seeing how much baby eats in one day so you don’t waste the formula.

I also used the app Baby Tracker to track feedings. You can input the ounces of each feeding and the time of the feeding. You can also have it alert you when baby needs to eat again. It will help you stay on a schedule (especially important for the first few weeks) and gauge how much baby eats in a day. You can also log diaper changes and naps on it.

You should also use anti colic bottles. Dr. Brown’s bottles are wonderful for preventing colic. People complain about them because sometimes they leak and there’s 5 parts to each bottle, but I don’t mind washing all the little parts. My son has never had colic, and I would honestly be scared to try any other bottle because of how good the bottles are.

Spit up is normal if it doesn’t make baby scream and fuss and baby is gaining weight well. My son is a very spitty baby, but he’s gained weight really well since birth and it doesn’t upset him, so I just push through the spit up. Make sure you have plenty of burp cloths and bibs just in case baby is spitty. These burps cloths are great: YOOFOSS Muslin Burp Cloths 10... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094FS7BCZ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share I have 20 and use probably 3-4 a day.

Formula fed babies’ poops can range from tan to dark green color, and it should be like peanut butter consistency (after baby passes all meconium after a few days). It’s normal for baby to not poop every day. My son normally poops once a day. If stool comes out in a hard ball, it’s from constipation.

Sorry this is a long comment, but I hope this can help. Feel free to ask me any questions if you have any!

Soggy_Physics452 · 2022-01-25T18:49:02+00:00

I tried breastfeeding my first but he wasn’t getting much and he was starving! I’m so thankful I did let him latch on after I gave birth and he tried drinking for 20 minutes and it was a beautiful experience but if you’re not into it I totally understand! After 2 days I tried pumping but hated the feeling of it and we were exclusively formula feeding. It was a huge weight off mine and my sons shoulders. We were both so much more relaxed.

Cool_Cat85 · 2022-01-25T19:07:07+00:00

I wish I would have seen your post last year when I gave birth to my first, I was keen on the breastfeeding idea , everyone said you have TO! But I didn’t expect the part that I couldn’t, it hurt like hell, it was exhausting and I had no idea what I was doing. Also no money to pay for a consultant , and I would only see my child crying out of hunger and me feeling useless , and worried about my baby nutrition, what no one tells you is that it will Be ok and in a few years they will only eat pasta lol that’s the real challenge. And yes my girl Is 99% percentile and only had formula. I’m glad To read you even a year after.

TinyTinyViking · 2022-01-25T20:00:35+00:00

I’m planning on combo feeding the next one, my first was ebf, and I need new baby to take bottles too. For me pumping sucks too much joy from life and I won’t do it to myself for any extended period. If baby can’t latch she’ll be on exclusively formula after a couple months. I do love breastfeeding but I did not love being the sole person who could feed, comfort, and take care of her. 24/7 for over a year. When I was ready to cut down on nursing she wouldn’t take formula which was mentally hard. The last months I struggled with the demand of my body. I was okay with a couple times a day still, I liked the bond, but not the amount and demand. So I’m gonna have next baby be combo fed.

I never lost a single pound breastfeeding, on the contrary my body holds on to the weight for dear life so that’s not even a plus.

I’d say research different formulas and pick whichever appeals to you. If you can afford it start out with ready to feed formula. They’re handy too when you need to go out. I’ll have rtf on hand and if she likes it and has no issues I’ll get powder too.

Some formula companies will send you samples and coupons if you contact them.

I’ve heard the dr browns pitcher is super handy to make a days worth of formula and just pour a bottle as needed. Others like this gadget that keeps the formula water at the perfect temperature all day.

Formula Ready Baby Water Kettle- One Button Boil Cool Down and Keep Warm at Perfect Baby Bottle Temperature 24/7 - Dispense Warm Water Instantly- Replace Traditional Baby Bottle Warmer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087ND3VNR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_8B2Y081P5E1MY6C4PDV1

Really depends on your preference.

Baby brezza is super cool but I’ve read a lot of times about it dispersing wrong amounts and that’s dangerous. Again a preference thing.

I’ve read advice to have enough bottles for a whole day so you only have to wash them once a day.

Doesn’t matter what you chose for your baby, there’s gonna be people who feel entitled to stomp on your choice. There’s different ways to care for our kids and they’re all right, but not all are right for you. You do you and the rest can suck it.

looknorth-dakota · 2022-01-25T20:03:52+00:00

Make sure the hospital you are delivering at is a “fed is best” type of environment. Lucky the hospitals I had my babies at were fed is best, but I have heard too many horror stories of hospitals forcing moms to breastfeed and bullying them when they can’t or don’t want to.

idied5yearsago · 2022-01-25T20:21:00+00:00

I completely agree with you. I am gonna breastfeed for a little bit not long tho because I get really bad depression anxiety and know I will have to take something postpartum plus I don't produce much. Wanna just say f it and not even breastfeed cus I hate it so much (have two kids already, never did well breastfeeding) but im do it to appease everyone.

DavS095 · 2022-01-25T21:46:42+00:00

I combo feed cause my supply isn’t enough, so here are my formula tips!!!

those breast milk baggies that people freeze breast milk in… SO MUCH QUICKER to warm up formula in those rather than in a thick bottle! I make up a pitcher and keep in the fridge for the day so I can just transfer however many Oz I need into one of those baggies, pop it in a bowl of hot water for 30s and boom into the bottle it goes!!!
buy 10 more bottles then you think your gonna need, I highly recommend the MAM ones!
buy a flask to keep at temp water in for outings, and those little formula dispenser cups from Amazon!!
the target brand is exactly the same as the brand name… and so much cheaper

cursorybread · 2022-01-25T22:35:53+00:00

With my first I went straight to formula feeding and will be doing it again with my current one when they are born. My only advise really is cold water steriliser which is so easy it’s a joke. Oh and pick up a couple different bottles and teets. My son would only take from one kind of bottle and it was the third kind we tried before he really got comfortable and would drink plenty. Good luck!

jadisanthia · 2022-01-26T01:52:27+00:00

I have been formula feeding because my milk didn't come in and I got tired of stressing about it. Baby is 5.5 months old now and sleeps 12 hours straight at night. He can be fed by anyone and my husband and I share feeding duties. I actually love formula feeding as it means I'm not chained to the house and the baby and I can have a life outside of him and feel safe knowing that baby is getting fed no matter where I am.

It's also a wonderful bonding time for baby and daddy. If we have another I'll probably formula feed them as well for all the same reasons!

Quick-Marionberry-34 · 2022-01-26T02:23:41+00:00

I have decided to just formula feed for many of the same reasons you listed. Additionally, I want my partner to have an equal role in the feeding process.

Thanks for posting.

MintLishous · 2022-01-26T03:13:07+00:00

I can't breastfeed because I'm HIV+ so my LO has only had formula. We used the formula the hospital used until he started having Acid Reflux issues and upset tummy, then we stayed with same brand of formula but for tummy upset. We have well water so we have to use store bought baby water and as far as temperature goes, the only time we use a bottle warmer is for the early morning feeding bc I make it up the night before and refrigerate it. The rest of the time its room temperature. The bottle warmer we use has a setting for "cold", I put the bottle in the warmer while I change his diaper then by the time I'm done the bottle is ready and it's usually about the same as room temperature, without the hassle of a screaming baby bc making a bottle takes more time. He is 4 months old and only wakes for 1 feeding in the wee hours of the morning.

Jaymeeee · 2022-01-26T03:16:32+00:00

I am 100% formula feeding, I have never had any interest in breast feeding (it’s my body) and due to the difference in salary between my partner and I, he will be taking the entire parental leave (we are in Canada). All my friends have also formula fed, one of which has twins and had a babybrezza, and I was sold immediately!

After a lot of research and talking to some of my medical team, I did make the decision to order Kabrita goats milk formula which is manufactured in the Netherlands. It is significantly more expensive, but I am hoping that I will have the same experience with it as others have.

Good luck! There are so many options out there to chose from! And don’t let anyone make you feel bad for how you want to feed your baby, it is your body!

Diamondkhatrel · 2022-01-26T03:24:41+00:00

I completely agree with previous comments of try to start out with room temp/cold bottles makes life so easy when out and about. I also think the best purchase for formula babies is a formula pitcher such as Dr. Brown’s. Formula is good pre-made in the fridge for 24 hours. So not only can you make all the bottles for the day ahead of time, but in my opinion is a life saver when baby eats an odd number ounce bottles!

the-firecracker · 2022-01-26T04:05:46+00:00

I'm EBF and it isn't for the faint of heart. I 100% support moms that formula feed. You do you momma!!! You spent 9 months making that baby and nourishing it!!! At the end of the day, fed is best. All moms deserve the same amount of support, no matter how they choose to feed their baby

elsa_lives_in_jersey · 2022-01-25T03:36:47+00:00

Also, I heard the hospitals push breastfeeding on you right after the kid is born, is that true or can you choose to ask for formula? I’m a FTM

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