The proverbial question for each expectant mum: Breast or Bottle. For many of us it is not a choice, nature will simply not afford us the opportunity to breastfeed. Others simply do not feel comfortable breast feeding. Whatever the choice, mother always knows what is best for her baby and her life.
So what to choose? Bottle, breast or a combination of the two. If you’re working, your baby is very hungry and waking too frequently during the night, perhaps you have several other children to care for, your life requires you to be out in public a lot. These factors and others may make bottle or combination feeding a better solution for you.
When life does require a move from breast to bottle, babies may not agree. Even when so tiny, they know what they want and they may completely refuse to do what you need, causing you endless anxiety. Fortunately, having a nanny can make the move much easier for you.
Firstly, your experienced nanny has exactly that: experience. Whilst you might be a first time mum, your nanny will have many years of experience with many different babies, they will have solutions, ideas, and a soothing voice telling you all be will alright and this is normal. Your nanny may suggest different teats, bottles, formula types. Your nanny will be your help and support.
A baby is far more likely to take a bottle from someone who isn't mum. Your baby has learned to associate you with yummy breast-feeding, and knows that he has the option when you're around. In fact, if your baby refuses a bottle it is recommended that mum not be within sight or even hearing range when he's offered the bottle again, as you remind him that he doesn't need it. Timing can be an important factor too. Most babies have an easier time bottle-feeding during the day, and going back to the breast at night as it comforts them. Nanny will be the experienced safe hands to care for your baby, giving your baby a moment out of your arms so the bottle may look appealing in a safe and calm environment.
Having someone else to take over the responsibility is going to make things emotionally easier for you. No one likes to hear their baby cry, particularly when the baby is hungry and you know you can do something about it. Persistence is key in learning to take the bottle, and the experienced nanny may be able to keep on trying long after you are tempted to give in and let your baby breast-feed. Learning to bottle-feed is an instrumental step in both baby's early life and your ability to have independence away from baby. A good nanny should be able to make the transition easier for the both of you.