Question

5. You are counseling a pregnant mother who has decided not to breast-feed. Describe some types of commercial formulas that would provide an appropriate alternative feeding for her infant. Describe the feeding techniques that will be important in meeting the psychosocial needs of her infant.

Answer 1

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that babies be breastfed exclusively for about the first 6 months. Following the introduction of solid foods, breastfeeding should continue through the first year of life and even beyond, if desired.

But breastfeeding isn't possible or preferable for all new moms. Deciding to breastfeed or bottle feed a baby is usually based on the mother's comfort level with breastfeeding and her lifestyle.

Commercially prepared infant formula is a nutritious alternative to breast milk. Bottle feeding can offer more freedom and flexibility for moms, and it makes it easier to know how much the baby is getting.

Because babies digest formula more slowly than breast milk, a baby who is getting formula may need fewer feedings than one who breastfeeds. Formula feeding also can make it easier to feed the baby in public, and lets the father and other family members help feed the baby, which can enhance bonding.

HERE IS A HELPFUL SUMMARY OF ALL THE DIFFERENT FORMULAS:

Cow’s Milk Protein (purified from whole milk): These formulas contain cow’s milk protein in its complete form. They are usually the first formulas that are tried. The majority of infants will grow well on this type of formula.

Examples: Earth’s Best Organic, Enfamil Newborn, Similac Advance, Similac Non-GMO

Partially Hydrolyzed Protein: These formulas contain proteins that are partially broken down but can still contain larger milk proteins. They are marketed as being easier to digest.

Examples: Enfamil Reguline, Gerber Good Start, Similac Sensitive

Extensively Hydrolyzed Protein: These formulas contain proteins that are all broken down into small protein pieces. They are typically fed to infants with cow’s milk protein allergy or milk protein–induced proctocolitis. They are also lactose free.

Examples: Enfamil Nutramigen, Gerber Extensive HA, Similac Alimentum

Amino Acid: These formulas contain proteins that are broken down into the smallest protein unit, known as amino acids. They can be offered to infants with cow’s milk protein allergy or milk protein–induced proctocolitis. They are also lactose free.

Examples: Alfamino, Elecare, Neocate, Puramino

Soy: These formulas contain soy protein, but unlike cow’s milk protein formulas, they are lactose-free. They are useful for some rare metabolic disorders (such as galactosemia) and temporarily after a diarrheal illness, if recommended by a physician.

Examples: Enfamil Isomil, Gerber Good Start Soy, Similac Isomil

Low-lactose or lactose-free: Lactose intolerance in infants is rare. Some infants may have transient lactose intolerance following a diarrheal illness. However, most children will not need to switch formulas following a diarrheal illness.

Examples: Similac Sensitive (virtually lactose free), Enfamil Gentlease (low lactose)

• Every baby should be fed on demand, however; most babies will need to be fed every 2-3 hours with 3-8 ounces depending on age. Always hold the baby in a semi-upright position when feeding. Hold bottle at bottom and tip up to make sure the nipple is full of milk and no air is trapped. Burp the baby half way through feeding and again at the end. Discard all formula or breast milk remaining in the bottle after each feeding. All milk should be used within 1 hour. NEVER prop bottles. Never put a baby to bed with a bottle. Don’t allow children to walk with bottles. Only use bottles labeled with the current day’s date.

• Social and Learning Opportunities Here are some things to remember to make infant feeding a special time. One-on-one attention allows the child to bond with the caregiver. Holding and feeding a baby creates a warm, secure environment, allowing the infant to feel comfortable to learn and grow.