Infant feeding: What parents need to know

Feeding your newborn is one of the most important responsibilities during the early months of life. Whether you choose to breastfeed, formula feed, or use a combination of both, it’s essential to understand the basics to ensure your baby’s healthy growth and development. Leading consultant paediatrician Dr Martin Gray addresses some of the most common questions that new parents in the UK may have about infant feeding.

Should I breastfeed or use formula?

The decision to breastfeed or formula feed is a personal one, influenced by your lifestyle, health, and preferences. The NHS and World Health Organization recommend breastfeeding as the optimal choice, as breast milk provides all the nutrients your baby needs in the first six months, along with antibodies that help fight infections.

However, formula is a safe and nutritionally complete alternative. Some parents may not be able to breastfeed due to medical conditions or lifestyle constraints. In these cases, formula offers a reliable option to support healthy development.

How often should I feed my baby?

In the early days, feeding should be on demand. Newborns typically feed every 2-3 hours, which can be 8-12 times in a 24-hour period. Whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, it’s important to let your baby guide the frequency of feeds.

Signs that your baby is hungry include sucking on their hands, making sucking noises, or becoming more alert and restless. Crying is often a late sign of hunger.

Is my baby getting enough milk?

For breastfed babies, it can be difficult to measure how much they are taking in, but there are clear signs that they’re feeding well:

• They seem content after feeds.
• They have 6-8 wet nappies a day after the first few days of life.
• They gain weight steadily.

With formula-fed babies, it's easier to track intake, as you can measure how much formula they consume. Newborns usually take around 30-60ml per feed in the first few days, increasing as they grow.

If you are concerned about your baby’s weight gain or milk intake, consult your healthcare provider.

What are common feeding concerns, and how can I manage them?

New parents often encounter feeding challenges. Below are some of the most common issues and tips for managing them:

Colic

Colic refers to prolonged crying in a healthy baby, often linked to gas or digestive discomfort. Some feeding strategies may help, such as feeding your baby in an upright position and burping them regularly. If colic persists, speak to your GP or health visitor for further advice.

Reflux

Some babies experience reflux, where milk comes back up into the mouth after feeds. This is usually normal and may resolve as the baby’s digestive system matures. Feeding smaller amounts more frequently and keeping your baby upright after feeds can help.

Allergies

Cow’s milk protein allergy can occur in both breastfed and formula-fed babies. Symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, and skin rashes. If you suspect your baby has an allergy, seek medical advice to discuss dietary changes or hypoallergenic formulas.

When should I introduce solids?

The introduction of solid foods should begin around six months of age, alongside continued breastfeeding or formula feeding. Signs that your baby is ready for solids include sitting up unaided, showing interest in food, and losing the tongue-thrust reflex.

Starting solids earlier than six months is not recommended, as your baby’s digestive system is not fully developed.

Can I combine breastfeeding and formula feeding?

Yes, many parents choose to combine breastfeeding and formula feeding, a practice known as mixed feeding. This can be particularly helpful if you’re returning to work or have difficulty producing enough milk. It’s best to establish breastfeeding first before introducing formula, usually after the first 6-8 weeks.

What if breastfeeding is painful?

Breastfeeding should not be painful. If you experience pain, it may be due to incorrect latching. Ensuring that your baby has a deep latch is key. If the pain persists, or you notice cracked nipples, seek help from a lactation consultant or your midwife.

Feeding your newborn can come with its challenges, but with the right support and information, it can also be a rewarding experience. Whether you choose to breastfeed, formula feed, or both, the most important thing is that your baby is well-nourished and healthy. If you have concerns about feeding, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

If you have any questions about infant feeding and would like to book a consultation with Dr Gray, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today.