How does Mixed feeding work!?

[Beccaroll]

Hi

When is milk supply established enough in that I could swap a couple of feeds for bottles but not lose breastfeeding altogether.

For the time being Im still happy exclusively breastfeeding but would like to know for the coming weeks/months for when I decide to phase it out.

Id hate to do it the wrong way and end up losing breastfeeding altogether.

Becca
xxx

Well latest evidence is that BF is REALLY established at 4 months.
However you could express... and use that to give yourself a brake.
Obviously you are doing really well

If for any reason you need to give formula on the off day you will probably be fine but don't make it a dialy habit if you do want to continue.
Do you give EBM in a bottle ?

I do but Im starting to get a bit lax with the expressing and have succumbed to formula a few times.

One thing that has always puzzled me - if Im going to be missing a feed and he is given EBM do I have to express at the time I would normally be feeding or not?

So at 6 weeks if I missed feeds once a week or so it could hamper my chances of breastfeeding at all??

No relax.... you're doing great
It is easiest to express in the AM - and certainly if you can express when you have given formula. You can build up a freezer full you know ?

While Im on the subject, I get varying degress of hind milk when I express (the thick stuff that seperates in the bottle) will he be getting enough even if there doesnt seem to be much there and will it make a difference to how long he goes between feeds?

I wouldn't worry about that - really

Thankyou Pupuce, for all the advice you've given me! You must think Im neurotic!

No - and I think you are RIGHT to ask... if you are properly informed you can make the right choices for you.
I am really pleased you are enjoying breatsfeeding

I think me informing myself is single handedly responsible for me succeeding this time where I failed with my DD.

You would have been proud of me on Monday!! I was asked to go and talk at a breastfeeding workshop I went to when I was pregnant about my experience of breastfeeding. About 20 pregnant mums asking me questions and Harvey woke up for a feed so they all go a live demo!

WELL DONE BECCA.... (without wanting to sound condescending) I think you're doing GREAT
Keep at it....

And role models is what we need.

awww thanks!

What a lovely little chat - Im pleased I asked the question now.

Feeling all confident and renewed commitment to it!