Because drinking from a bottle is different from drinking from the breast, your baby might be reluctant at first to bottle-feed. Here are some guidelines for introducing a supplemental bottle that will help make it easier for both of you.

It is best to wait until your baby is 3 to 4 weeks old before introducing a bottle. This period gives you time to fully establish breastfeeding and your breast milk supply. On the other hand, you don't want to wait too long. Some babies will refuse a bottle if it is first introduced much after the age of 1 month.

Once you do introduce the bottle, it may be a good idea to have someone else feed the baby. This is because your baby associates you with breastfeeding and may reject the bottle if you are the one offering it.

You may find that your baby accepts the bottle easily. If not, gently encourage the baby to accept it through soothing and caressing. Be sure your baby is well rested and in a pleasant mood before trying.

If all else fails, try different types, shapes, and brands of nipples. Your baby might simply prefer a certain type of bottle nipple. It is not necessary that your baby drink every last drop. Your child's caretaker should be instructed to stop feeding when the baby stops drinking or slows down considerably (just as he or she would at the breast).