Should I give my baby vitamins?

[mummsy1981]

Hi all.
My ds is ten weeks old and is having a few problems with his feeding. He is vomiting and passing hard stools.
I am worried he isn't getting all the vitamins he needs.
Should I give him vitamin drops xx

Babies really shouldn't need vitamins unless they have some other major absorption issues - in which case they should see a doctor in any case. Adding anything extra to their diet just increases the chance of bugs getting into them or further imbalances in their gut.

Hard stools usually sounds like constipation - if bfing, are you letting him feed on demand? If ffing, are you sure that the formula isn't being made with a little too much powder?

If you are concerned it's probably worth a trip to your GP, maybe with a nappy as an example if needed. At this age they would much rather see them before suggesting any remedies. Or call 101? Hope all turns out okay!

Thanks sunnysummer he is ff and it is made up correctly. I was concerned that as he is vomiting that he is not getting the recommended 32 ounces of milk that they require before it is recommended to give vitamin drops

32oz sounds like a huge amount for a 10wk old? Are you actively trying to get him to drink that much? I wonder if he simply doesn't have a big enough stomach for it? When mine were small they said sips of cooled boiled water for a ff baby with constipation. That would be my focus rather than the vitamins at the moment.

General rule is feed what baby wants and don't worry so long as they are gaining weight at a healthy rate and appear generally healthy. Have you looked into reflux? Could be a reason for the sickness?

Sorry, should have said, mine are a lot older now so double check the sips of water with your hv but I suspect it will help. Ff is less hydrating than bf, coupled with vomiting and dry stool I would suspect some dehydration.

Pretty sure formula is made with more vitamins than needed so if he is having some formula he should be ok.

What brand of formula is he on? Sometimes changing the brand can help with constipation issues.

He is feeding on demand. Took him to see paediatrician and she has got gp to prescribe a partially digested formula as his weight gain is not great. He is 3lb heavier than when he was born at 5lb 10oz. He is below the 0.4th centime on his chart but seems to be following a pattern with his weight gain.
If he doesn't like this she says put him back on shop brought formula. I've tried aptamil and cow and gate.
Any recommendations on what milk next?
Thank you