Nurturing a baby’s health involves multiple feeding options, such as exclusive breastfeeding, formula feeding, and combination feeding (also known as combo feeding). However, exclusive breastfeeding gets the highest advocacy considering the great benefits attached. With various life changes, many parents consider supplementing breast milk with formula milk or combining both (combo feeding/combination feeding).

Combo feeding or mixed feeding?

Combo feeding/mixed feeding is a process where parents/guardians feed their infants/babies with both breast milk and formula milk. The mixture is nutrition-rich and comes in handy for working parents/guardians who tend to leave their babies for several hours or work. It’s also a good choice for individuals who have difficulty producing enough breast milk. Combination feeding (combo feeding) provides comprehensive nutrients that are beneficial for the baby.

The term also implies multiple ways of feeding that supplement breastfeeding. For example:

• Pumping/ bottle feeding and breastfeeding.
• Formula milk and breastfeeding.
• Supplemental nursing system.

Why opt for combo feeding and breastfeeding?

Parenting comes with multiple challenges and wins. We all want to provide the best for our babies. However, some situations might call for extra options to ensure the baby gets healthy quality and overall growth. There are several reasons why mothers will go for both formula and breastmilk.

• Suppose the baby is premature or preterm.
• If the parent is ill and cannot give full attention to the baby. There might be a reduction in breastmilk and a need for some formula boost.
• When the baby is not adding weight well and need supplements to help with the weight.
• A mother might incorporate infant formula when trying to increase their breast milk supply.
• A working mom or traveling for a particular time.
• Some mothers prefer not to breastfeed in public or express their milk.
• Physical issues for both baby and mother, such as a cleft lip, tongue tie, or inverted nipples.
• Need to involve the partner in parenting and feeding sessions.
• When taking medication that can pass through breastmilk.

Considerations before introducing combo feeding/combination feeding

Introducing a new feeding routine can take a toll on the mother and baby. The process might tamper with the breast milk supply or cause some emotional spark for the baby or mom. Before kickoff, it’s wise to consult with your doctor or health consultant. Parents consider the following details:

• Check out the best and healthy infant milk formula.
• How to prepare the formula.
• How to increase and maintain your milk supply.
• Learn about the number of times the baby should be fed on infant formula.
• How long should the baby have formula milk (6 months or more or less)?

Things to expect when combo feeding

Mothers should expect the following possible happenings:

• It’s possible for the baby to refuse the bottle, especially when fed by the mother. To resolve this, it’s wise to request someone else to feed the baby. The baby will get used to and learn to alternate when needed.
• The baby might love and prefer the bottle milk and refuse breast milk. This might cause breast tenderness, frustrations, and crying if forced to breastfeed.
• The poo will change in terms of color, smell, and pooping intervals.
• Milk production irregularities (overfull breast or reduced milk).

Multiple ways of combo feeding

With the solid decision on mixed feeding. Parents should formulate a routine and plan on how to start the combination feeding. Here are various options on how you can offer mixed feeding to your baby.

• The baby can have formula milk during the day and be breastfed at night.
• Parents can alternate the bottle milk and formula milk based on the number of times the baby feeds.

However, watch every behavior to ensure the baby is comfortable. Note that what worked for one baby might not for the other. If there are any difficulties, it’s wise to consult your doctor.

The key factor is cooperation with your partner or family for a smooth parenting journey.

Concerns and preparation for formula milk

With different suggestions about combo feeding. It’s advisable to consult your doctor before mixing breast milk and formula milk in one bottle. This might come with some shortcomings like reducing the right powder milk level or being too concentrated. Before introducing the formula, check the following concerns:

• Infant formula expiry date.
• Sterilizing and cleaning of the feeding bottles and storing containers.
• Proper measurements (water level and powder levels)

Note: Never prepare formula milk with breast milk instead of water.

Infant formula should be refrigerated for only 24 hours. However, for room temperature, the milk should stay for 2 hours.

Benefits of Combo feeding

Combo feeding has incredible benefits for both baby and mother, as follows:

• A flexible routine for parents, as they can work or take a break. It gives the baby the opportunity to receive care from the mother and other caregivers.
• The baby is well feed and has enough, thus having good health.
• There is a nutritional balance even when the mother has low milk production.
• Combo feeding allows for the continuation of breastfeeding.
• It’s a good transition from breastmilk to bottle feeding, which will help make it easier for solid foods.
• It’s a great alternative for a mother who cannot breastfeed exclusively due to low milk supply or work.
• Parents with serious illnesses or medical issues benefit from combo feeding.

Breastfeeding schedule for working moms

With work calling mixed feeding is unavoidable. Most parents worry of low milk supply or the baby’s growth when they start working. However, one can create a schedule that aligns with other feeding supplements. There are several strategies, such as:

• Breastfeeding before heading to work.
• Leaving some pumped milk for the day (if possible).
• You can breastfeed at night.
• Pump at work or home, but provide formula at night to get enough rest.

Based on your option, having a planned schedule and the right milk contents as all that matter.

Conclusion

Mixed feeding is as important as exclusive feeding. With the right routine, balancing and understating combo feeding will do perfectly well for your baby.