How much formula for a breastfeeding baby?

[P.Lily]

Hello,

I am currently still breastfeeding my 7mo, along with weaning onto solids. I would like to transition onto formula, however I don't know how much to give my lo and how often. On the pre-made cartons of follow on milk it states 150ml every 4 hrs, but I don't think my baby would consume this much at a normal breastfeed!

Any experience/advice, as I don't want to over feed or underfeed my lo

 

[cat lover]

Start with what they suggest on the box. If LO wolfs it down do another oz next time. If LO doesnt finish it you can make less. You cant really overfeed, LO wil either take what they need or if they overeat they wil be sick x

 

[Jendra]

I take little mini breaks with my baby to see if he still wants the bottle. I've learned that if he does a head shake (It looks like he's shaking his head no ) he's trying to get the bottle in. If he doesn't do that, then he's full. I also tug a bit at the bottle to see if he's clamping him mouth down, which also means he's fully engaged in eating.

In these ways I can determine that I'm not over-feeding him. Any time I've pushed him a little beyond where he's not trying to get the nipple in, or the bottle easily comes away from his mouth... bleh! Out comes some of his meal!

You'll figure it out too and don't feel bad if you make too much or too little the first time. Though I'd err on the side of too little so you can make a little more to top LO up.

 

[tinytabby]

I weaned my LO onto formula around the same time. Initially she took 1-2 oz and then wanted the breast but that was good because it meant I avoided engorgement altogether. Just offer formula first and don't refuse the boob and you'll find that LO will gradually prefer the bottle.

I don't think you can over feed babies. They make it pretty clear when they don't want milk.

 

[Lavendel]

i nurse my 3mo baby 3 times a day and the other 2 times i feed him formula. i did this since he was 2 weeks old. i started it by following the box instruction but he was not happy, so i adjust it. i guess it also depends on weight, he is now 64cm and 6.2kg and drinks 180ml water+6 formula spoons.
his pediatrician said it was fine for him, but a friend of mine was told to give her baby only 120+4spoons because he was "overweight" (he was 56cm and 5.7kg).

takes a few days til you get the hand on it, it's unlikely u'l underfeed ur baby, so dont worry!