Implications of formula night feed

[Coco]

Sorry if this has been asked lots before but I have had a look on google and get mixed information.

To any of you give a bottle of formula as the evening feed? If so what implications does this have on baby? I plan to express to replace the evening feed if I choose this route so my supply shouldn't be affected but I don't want to give formula milk if it's going to 'undo' any of the good work of breast milk!!

On a selfish note, I want more sleep but I'm happy to forego this if it's going to be detrimental to breastfeeding.

Any advice much appreciated! x

 

[freckleonear]

If you express for that feed it shouldn't affect your supply too much. One bottle of formula will change the gut flora of your baby, it's up to you to decide whether that would be a concern for you. Some people decide they don't want to give any formula at all whilst others are perfectly happy to introduce it. Here are a couple of articles explaining about the "virgin gut" of an exclusively breastfed baby.

https://www.health-e-learning.com/articles/JustOneBottle.pdf
https://www.breastfeed.com/articles/issues-for-mom/the-case-for-the-virgin-gut-3451/

As far as sleep is concerned, although generally formula-fed babies sleep for longer, it isn't always the case as many mothers who have tried it in desperation will tell you! Also, when you think about the reason formula-fed babies sleep longer (heavy undigestible bits keeping them full up for longer) it may not be such a good thing.

 

[Seity]

Just wanted to add that formula vs breastmilk before bed didn't help Gabriel sleep any better at night.