We’ve all heard the ‘breast is best’ information all about the benefits of breast feeding your baby but what if you cannot breast feed or simply don’t want to? 

There are certainly a lot of positive things about breast feeding but if it makes you un-easy or unhappy then bottle feeding your baby can make you both relax.  

Getting well organised for bottle feeding is important so you can enjoy it. In time you’ll find your own routine for preparing feeds and sterilising. 

What you’ll need 

• At least six bottles and teats- there are different kind of bottles and teats. Ask your mid-wife, health visitor or other mothers if you need advice on what to buy.

• A supply of baby milk-there are lots of different brands of baby milk (infant formula) all marketed in different ways. It may well get a bit confusing when you are confronted with the wide choice. Your health visitor or mid-wife can help you choose the right brand for your baby.

• Sterilising equipment-chemical sterilising, sterilising by boiling, steam sterilisers or microwave steam units can all be used, as you must sterilise bottles and teats until your baby is at least six months old to avoid infection. 

The advantages of bottle feeding 

• You can get your partner or family member involved more by sharing feeding times, it’s great for them and will give you some free time.

• If it is possible, get some help with the night feeds, a great chance for you to get more sleep! 

Don’t let people make you feel like you’re not a good parent because you bottle-feed your baby, the most important thing is that you and your baby are happy!