How to Bring Baby Back to the Breast After a Bottle Preference

As a Registered Nurse and Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS), I often see mothers navigating the challenge of bringing their babies back to the breast after introducing a bottle. While bottles can be a convenient option, babies sometimes develop a preference for the bottle’s easier flow, making breastfeeding a bit more challenging. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the steps to re-establish breastfeeding, along with tips to maintain your milk supply, even if your baby is reluctant to latch.

Why Bottle Preference Happens

Bottle preference can happen because the flow from a bottle nipple is typically faster and requires less effort than breastfeeding. Babies naturally favor an easier feeding source, and if they get used to the faster milk flow of a bottle, they may resist the breast. The good news is that with patience, support, and consistency, many babies can transition back to breastfeeding.

Key Steps to Bring Baby Back to the Breast

1. Maintain Milk Supply: Keep Moving Milk Regularly

If your baby isn’t latching, it’s crucial to maintain your milk supply by regularly pumping. Milk supply relies on the demand-supply principle, so expressing milk with a pump tells your body to keep producing. Aim for a consistent pumping schedule, mimicking how frequently your baby would nurse.

For more information on how to effectively pump and protect your supply, check out my mini pumping guide. It covers everything you need to keep your milk flowing even if your baby isn’t nursing directly.

2. Offer the Breast in a Calm, Relaxed Environment

Babies pick up on tension, so try to approach each feeding calmly. Hold your baby close, engage in skin-to-skin contact, and choose a quiet, comfortable setting. If your baby is calm, they’ll likely be more open to trying the breast.

3. Use Breast Compression

While your baby is latched, gently compress your breast to increase milk flow. This helps mimic the faster flow of a bottle and encourages your baby to keep nursing at the breast.

4. Choose Feeding Times Wisely

Offer the breast when your baby is sleepy, like during nighttime feedings or naps. Sleepy babies tend to be less particular and may more readily accept the breast. You can also try breastfeeding in a baby carrier while wearing your baby + doing skin to skin to aid with the connection.

5. Offer the Breast First, Then Supplement if Needed

Begin each feeding session by offering the breast. If your baby becomes frustrated or doesn’t get enough milk, follow up with a small amount in a bottle but ensure it’s paced. Over time, your baby may become more comfortable nursing and need less supplementation. Try offering the breast again when baby is calmer after taking some milk from the bottle.

6. Use a Slow-Flow Nipple for Bottles

When using a bottle, opt for a slow-flow nipple that requires more effort to get milk, mimicking the breast. This helps prevent babies from developing a preference for the bottle’s faster flow. Here are some great options to use: Dr. Brown's Bottles, Evenflo Bottles.

7. Consider a Nipple Shield

Nipple shields can bridge the gap between bottle-feeding and breastfeeding. Many babies find it familiar and easier to transition from the shield to the nipple over time. Be sure to consult with a lactation consultant on proper usage. Use a nipple shield that is made of thin silicone, there are two good options for those lansinoh one and Momcozy one.

8. Practice Patience and Persistence

Every baby is different, so be patient. Baby steps are okay, and gradual progress is still progress. Focus on bonding and a positive feeding experience rather than immediate results.

Don’t Forget: Milk Supply Maintenance

When your baby is reluctant to nurse, it’s essential to move milk consistently to avoid a drop in supply. Regular pumping sessions mimic your baby’s nursing pattern, helping keep your supply steady. By expressing milk every 2-3 hours during the day and every 4-5 hours at night, you signal to your body to keep producing.

If your baby doesn’t latch, don’t be discouraged. It can take time, but staying consistent will give you the best chance of achieving your breastfeeding goals. For additional tips and a full breakdown of pumping strategies, refer to my mini pumping guide, designed to support mothers in protecting their milk supply.

Wrapping Up: Support and Resources

Returning to the breast after bottle preference is a journey, but with the right strategies and patience, it’s possible. Remember that you’re doing an incredible job, and every bit of effort you’re putting in is valuable.

For more breastfeeding resources, including tips on milk supply maintenance and effective pumping, check out my mini pumping guide linked in this post. And as always, reach out for support if you need help—whether it’s from a lactation consultant, your healthcare provider, or other breastfeeding resources. You’ve got this!