Reasons and ways of coping

The baby is sleepy

The baby isn’t used to using feeding bottles and especially refuses to drink when he is sleepy or shortly after waking up. 

How to cope: Feed the baby once he is fully awake and is ready to feed and not when he just woke up.

The baby is not hungry

It is possible that the baby is still not hungry and is satisfied with the milk he drank at the last feeding and is not ready to feed again.

How to cope: Do not force the baby to drink milk and let him feel the need.

The baby might feel hungry after every short while because breast milk is easily digested. The baby might drink all the contents of the bottle when offered but she will regulate the amount of breast milk they need when feeding at the breast.

If you are combining breastfeeding and formula, you’ll notice that your baby prefers breast milk. Don’t be concerned about the baby not having enough breast milk and keep the signs in check.

Consult your doctor if you think that breast milk or formula is insufficient.

Discomfort in the feeding position

It is okay to use a breastfeeding position even for bottle feeding.

How to cope: Feed your baby in a relaxing position.

The baby is not able to relax

Way to cope: Try to keep the baby relaxed.

Babies are sensitive to the environment and changes in it. Try to keep the baby relaxed by taking a walk while carrying him when the environment is different or the weather is bad.

Birth defects or Health problems such as palate and cleft lip

The baby might feel stressed if too much milk or too little milk comes out.

Way to cope: Change the nipple size.

It is quite possible that the bottle's nipple size is not appropriate for the baby and the baby is stressed because of that. Keep the nipple size in check and change it accordingly.