Water for 3 Month old?

[Frank345]

I’m having a proper first time mum worry episode!

As seen as the weather is so hot today I decided to give my 3 month old baby a bit of cool boiled water in between her feed (she’s formula fed), she had 2 ounces in one sitting and I’ve since read that this can be dangerous. I’m super worried now and as seen as it’s a Sunday there are no doctors open to ring.

Is it okay for a baby to have this much water in a sitting - this is the first time I’ve ever given her any additional water.

I wouldn't worry. It isn't ideal but she doesn't need medical attention. It is hot so she does need some water. Just give less next time.

Hi @Frank345. You don't need to see a doctor.
Whether you need to give any water depends on whether your baby is breastfed. If so, the NHS guidance is that your baby shouldn't be given water, but may feed more.
If your baby is formula fed, some cooled boiled water is fine. The NHS website doesn't give guidance on how much, but if he or she has had their usual amount of milk, I wouldn't worry about it.

For a formula fed baby, 1-2 oz of cooled, boiled water a day is fine as long as you don't give it immediately before a feed. As pp said breastfed babies don't need additional fluids until they start weaning but formula fed babies do if it's hot.

It is rather hot and she was thirsty. She will be fine.

I had my son 15 years ago when all these guidelines were not a thing. I used to give my son cooked bottled water between feeds. Never hurt him

It's fine. The reason for the guideline not to feed water is because babies who are not yet having solids get all of the liquid they need from breastmilk or formula, and there is a danger to a small number of low weight babies that if parents are giving water regularly (particularly e.g. to stretch baby out between feeds or encourage a too-young baby into a four-hourly routine, or to make formula powder last longer) the baby's tummy will be too full with water to take in the nutrients they need from their milk, and they might suffer malnutrition as a result. This isn't the case with a one off 2 oz drink of water, so your baby will be absolutely fine. It's OK for formula fed babies to have a bit of cooled boiled water to drink in between feeds on a hot day. You can also give her extra formula if she wants more because she is thirsty.

Thank you everyone for your advice! it’s put my mind at rest!