Bottle-feeding in hospital
Bottle-feeding in hospital
Be prepared
What you'll need to pack if bottle-feeding
Whether you are planning to formula feed, express your breast milk from birth, combine breast and bottle feeding, or just want to be prepared for every possible situation, it is good to explore the various bottles and teats available, as well as potential
Not all maternity units have baby milk and feeding equipment available1, unless there is a medical need. So if you’re planning to formula feed or express your breast milk for bottle-feeding, it’s important to check whether you need to bring your own supplies.
If you’re planning to formula feed, most probably you will need to bring ready-to-feed liquid formula of your brand of preference to the hospital as not all hospitals have the facilities for the safe preparation or storage of powdered formula2. Talk to your midwife or healthcare professional if you have any questions or need support.
Formula feeding: Preparing the first feed
Some – but not all – hospitals will teach you how to make up your baby’s first bottle-feed. It’s your chance to ask any questions you might have so that you can feel confident when it comes to sterilising bottles and preparing feeds at home.
Using the right teat
When it comes to
Your baby’s needs change constantly as they develop, so bear in mind that you might need to change bottles and teats during your baby’s feeding journey to keep them feeding comfortably.
Next steps
Add these items to your shopping list:
- Silicone or orthodontic teats
- Small bottles (120ml/4oz), possibly wide-neck (these are less messy to fill)
- If formula feeding, your choice of ready to feed infant milk
Watch our short video on preparing a bottle-feed
Oriana Hernandez Carrion
Oriana has a BSc (Hons) in Nutrition and Food Science (1st class) from University Iberoamericana in Mexico, the country where she completed an internship in a Children’s Public Hospital (HIMFG) and later on worked in a private nutrition clinic.
Last reviewed: 28th July 2021
Reviewed by Oriana Hernandez Carrion
Related articles
Get in touch with our Careline experts
Our midwives, nutritionists and feeding advisors are always on hand to talk about feeding your baby. Need instant assistance? Our WhatsApp Customer Support team is here to help on-the-go!