Refusing to feed via bottle

Re: Refusing to feed via bottle

• knottie43a5b05dea39eee1 member

  August 23

  That sounds really stressful — you’re not alone, many babies who are exclusively breastfed can resist the bottle at first. A few things that sometimes help:

  • Have someone else try: Babies often refuse a bottle from mom because they can smell and expect the breast. Sometimes they’ll accept it more easily from dad or another caregiver.

  • Experiment with timing: Offer the bottle when baby is calm and not super hungry or upset — mid-nap wake-ups can work better than when they’re very hungry.

  • Try different temperatures: Some babies prefer milk warmed closer to body temperature.

  • Vary positions: Your husband can try holding the baby in a more upright or playful position, not necessarily a “feeding” hold, so it feels less like breastfeeding.

  • Gradual introduction: Start with very small amounts just to get baby used to the nipple.

  It can take persistence and patience, but many babies do eventually adapt once mom isn’t around. If it stays really difficult, you could also ask your pediatrician or a lactation consultant for support.

  Report0 Reply