Breastfeeding and Formula Feeding: A Guide to Combination Feeding

We’re told that breastfeeding is best, but we’re also sent home with formula samples. And don’t even get me started on how maternity leave policies align with the recommendation to breastfeed until age 2. It’s enough to make any mama feel steam coming out of her ears!

Today, let’s explore a middle-ground approach that isn’t often discussed: supplementing breastfeeding with formula feeding. This option might not work for every family, but it’s worth considering. With insights from Kelly Rutan, a certified postpartum doula and infant feeding specialist, we’ll break down how this approach can support both you and your baby.

Why Isn’t Supplementing with Formula Discussed More?

The simple answer: breastmilk steals the spotlight.

Kelly’s Perspective:

• “Breastmilk is the biologically optimal food for human babies. It’s tailored to this little person; it’s a superhero!”
• The focus on breastmilk’s benefits often drowns out the nuanced conversations about real-life feeding challenges.

Feeding isn’t always a simple, natural process. Kelly emphasizes the importance of a whole-family approach: “We need to consider not just what’s best for the baby, but also what’s best for Mom’s mental health.”

Feeding a baby doesn’t have to be an either/or choice. You can offer your baby breastmilk and formula, embracing the benefits of both.

Why Consider Supplementing Breastfeeding with Formula?

Combination feeding—using both breastmilk and formula—can be a game-changer for two key reasons:

1. Medical Reasons

• If medical providers have concerns about your baby getting enough food from breastfeeding alone, supplementing is a serious and valuable option.
• Formula supplementation can allow moms to continue offering breastmilk long-term, especially when other medical challenges arise.

2. Mental Health and Convenience

• Exclusive breastfeeding can lead to extreme sleep deprivation, stress on family dynamics, or challenges at work.
• Supplementing with formula can provide relief and make life with a newborn more manageable.

Kelly reassures: “The choice to supplement could simply be for the well-being of the entire family. It can make life with a newborn survivable.”

Tips for Moms Considering Combination Feeding

If you’re thinking about supplementing breastfeeding with formula, here are some practical tips from Kelly:

• Define Your Goals

  • Ask yourself, “What is the role of formula in our family?”
  • Are you using formula as a short-term solution or as a long-term plan to support breastfeeding?

• Plan for Convenience

  • Batch prepare formula to save time.
  • Invest in the right gear, like bottles and sterilizers, to simplify the process.
  • Kelly says, “It’s okay to run the dishwasher twice a day—hear this as permission!”

The Final Word on Combination Feeding

Combination feeding may not always be highlighted by your OB, pediatrician, or lactation consultant, but it’s a valid and empowering choice.

Kelly’s closing advice:

• “Each family should feel empowered to make the choice that’s best for their family. We shouldn’t judge. Instead, we should lean into supporting all moms. Did you make the choice that’s best for your family today? Then good job. You’re doing great.”

Nurtured Nest provides self-paced online learning for parents, helping you navigate the challenges and joys of feeding, parenting, and beyond. Explore our courses here.