From Breastmilk to Formula

by Jacqui David
(Auckland New Zealand)

Hello there! So I have finally got my little man to take the bottle after 6 months of successful and easy breastfeeding, and thought that he would never wean of me, but finally has started too, but my question is: Will he get colic now that he is on formula milk? Or does this just occur with young babies? I have started with breastfeeding him 3 times a day(morning noon and night) and the rest is with the bottle (which is about another 3 times a day). I'm scared, I dont want him to become upset with too much formual milk. Any help would be great.








Baby Help Line Response:

Hi Jacqui!

No, you're son will not get colic, that's for younger babies, usually between 1 an 4 months old. But what can happen is that he becomes a bit constipated. That is quite common in breastfed babies when introducing formula or solid foods. The best way to prevent constipation is acutally what you're already doing; to go slowly with the new foods. It is great that you continue to also breastfeed your boy, this way, the risk is much lower that he will have problems. If you notice signs of constipation, try cutting back on the formula a little bit and increase the share of breast milk for a while.

Good luck!

/Paula




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