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Learning About Bottle-Feeding: Tips for Common Problems

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Bottle-feeding is a skill that gets better with practice. But it's common to have problems. These may include your baby refusing the bottle, crying or fussing, and spitting up a lot during feeding. Be patient with yourself and your baby. With time, you'll learn what works best for both of you.

Tips for managing common bottle-feeding problems

Before you feed your baby, make sure that all the bottle parts are washed and ready to use.

Bottle refusal

  • Gently rub the bottle nipple on your baby's cheek. This encourages them to open their mouth.
  • If your baby stops eating and turns away, they may be full.

Crying or fussing

  • Feed your baby before they get too hungry and cry.
  • Look for signs that your baby may be hungry. For example, they may pucker or smack their lips.
  • Calm them down by gently rocking them or walking while feeding them. Play soothing sounds.

Spitting up a lot

  • The milk or formula may be coming out of the bottle too fast. Try using a slow flow or different size bottle nipple.
  • Change your baby's position.
  • Burp your baby during and after feeding.
  • Your baby may have a food sensitivity if this happens every time they eat. Talk to your doctor about trying a different formula.

Tooth problems

  • Don't give bottles to your baby in the crib. And don't prop their bottle to feed them.
  • Put only breast milk or formula in bottles their first year.
  • Ask your doctor or dentist about how to care for your baby's gums and teeth.

When should you call for help?

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You have questions about feeding your baby.
  • You are concerned that your baby is not eating enough.
  • You have trouble feeding your baby.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.