Breastfeeding question

[1990fran]

Hi all

I have a 3 wk old baby and despite the issues at the start bfeeding it has got better I breastfeed during the day he also has some formula in the night so my dh can feed him, I was expressing to but not enough to make all the bottles needed, anyway I am due back at work at 6 months and I am thinking if i cant express, I am going to have to switch to formula full time he will start solids from 6 months, my mum will be looking after him when im back at work, is this ok to do? Or do i need tl give up.bfeeding sooner than this to get him used to being on formula full time? Im so confused online it says bfeed up to a year or 2 yrs?! This is my first baby all new to me any advice would be great x

You can still give some breastfeeds even if you give some formula e.g. give formula during the day and breastfeed mornings, evenings, weekends, etc

You can do both if you want. Baby can have breast milk during the night/weekends and formula while you're at work. As he gets older and his milk needs decrease you might find he does reverse cycling where he feeds a lot at night and not much during the day.

Or you can just switch over to formula completely if that works better for you, you don't need to start changing over now.

You will still be able to breastfeed when you're with your baby, and he can be given formula when you're apart. Your milk production will adjust, though you may need to express (probably by hand) for comfort for a while when at work, as your body adjusts. It may be worth starting the combination feeding a few weeks before going back to work, so your body has adjusted somewhat before going back to work - this might help prevent engorgement and mastitis.

At 6 months, even if he's eating some solids, milk should still make up the majority of his diet, until at least a year.

If you have a breastfeeding support group in your area, it's well worth getting in touch for detailed guidance. Many are running online at the moment. You can also call the National Breastfeeding Helpline www.nationalbreastfeedinghelpline.org.uk

There is really no need for you to start worrying about this yet!

For now, bf as much as your baby wants and your supply is likely to increase to match demand.

It is completely up to you and your baby how long you carry on bf for. Up to 6 months would be amazing.