Going Back to Breastfeeding After Bottle Preference or Premature Birth: How to Transfer Back to the Breast and Maintain Milk Supply

As a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS) and Registered Nurse, I often meet mothers who face challenges with transitioning their babies back to breastfeeding after developing a preference for the bottle.

This situation is common among babies who were introduced to bottles early due to various reasons, including medical conditions, birth complications, or premature birth.

Reintroducing your baby to the breast may seem overwhelming, but with patience and persistence, it’s completely possible.

Here’s how you can approach this transition while maintaining your milk supply.

Why Does Bottle Preference Happen?

Bottle preference can develop because bottles tend to provide milk flow more easily and quickly than the breast. Babies may begin to favor bottles due to the less effort required to extract milk. Additionally, babies born prematurely might have started feeding from bottles or even feeding tubes due to their early birth, making breastfeeding a new and unfamiliar challenge for them. However, with some effort and support, you can guide your baby back to the breast.

Steps to Transition Back to the Breast

1. Start with Skin-to-Skin Contact

   One of the most effective ways to encourage breastfeeding is through skin-to-skin contact. This method helps calm the baby and can stimulate their natural breastfeeding instincts. It also provides an opportunity for your baby to become familiar with your scent and the breast again, especially after using a bottle for some time.

2. Offer the Breast When Baby is Calm

   Avoid offering the breast when your baby is hungry and upset. Try latching your baby when they are calm and not too hungry. This will reduce their frustration and increase their willingness to latch. You can try to nurse after a small bottle feeding or during sleepy times.

3. Use Nipple Shields or Pump to Prime the Breast

   Nipple shields can sometimes help a baby transition from a bottle to the breast, as they resemble the shape and texture of a bottle nipple. You can also try pumping for a minute before feeding to start the flow of milk. This can make breastfeeding easier for your baby, as they won’t have to work as hard for that initial letdown.

4. Try Different Breastfeeding Positions

   Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find the one that works best for your baby. For example, the "laid-back" breastfeeding position may make the transition smoother, or using the side-lying position can feel more comfortable for both of you, especially if the baby is premature and small.

5. Patience is Key

   Reintroducing breastfeeding is a process that may take time. Don’t get discouraged if your baby initially resists. Keep offering the breast gently and consistently, and be patient with yourself and your baby.

Maintaining Your Milk Supply Through Pumping

Even if your baby isn’t latching well at the moment, it’s essential to keep up your milk supply through pumping. Here’s how you can do that:

• Pump Regularly: If your baby is not feeding directly from the breast, pumping every 2-3 hours mimics a baby’s feeding schedule and ensures you continue to produce enough milk.

• Use Hands-On Pumping: Breast massage while pumping can help stimulate more milk production and empty the breasts effectively.

• Choose the Right Pump: se a double electric pump that can maintain your milk supply and drain your breast "fully". Wearable pumps are secondary pumps and you can use them 1-2 times a day when you're on the go without decreasing your milk supply.

  Make sure you’re using a pump that fits well and feels comfortable. A poorly fitted flange or low-quality pump can reduce your milk output and cause discomfort. Check your pump settings for optimal suction.

• Store Milk Properly: If you're pumping exclusively while transitioning back to breastfeeding, ensure you follow proper milk storage guidelines. Always label your milk with the date and time of pumping, and store it in the fridge or freezer to maintain its quality.

Offering Additional Support

If you're finding the process challenging or if your milk supply needs a boost, don't hesitate to seek help. I offer one-on-one consultations to help guide you through any breastfeeding struggles, from latching issues to maintaining supply through pumping. My Mini Pumping Guide also offers helpful tips on how to pump effectively to maintain your supply. Whether you need guidance on how often to pump, what equipment to use, or how to combine breastfeeding and pumping, I've got you covered.

For more information on how to pump effectively or to schedule a 1:1 consultation, visit. You don’t have to go through this alone – support is available every step of the way!

Transitioning back to breastfeeding after a baby has developed a bottle preference or was born prematurely can take time and persistence, but with the right strategies, you can make it work. Remember to stay patient, focus on skin-to-skin contact, and maintain your milk supply by pumping regularly.

And if you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out for a personalized consultation or check out my Mini Pumping Guide for helpful tips. Breastfeeding is a journey, and with the right tools and guidance, you can navigate it successfully.