Cup Feeding for Newborns
The decision to breastfeed your baby is a very personal one. Today, many parents do choose to breastfeed for at least some portion of time. In preparation for their breastfeeding journey parents often take classes, read books, watch videos, and do tons of research. One topic that is not always covered in the vast information gathered is how to supplement a breastfed baby. You are not always presented with the need to supplement your breastfed baby, but if you are, I want to be sure that you know you have options. Many parents that I support as their doula have never heard about cup feeding. I personally love this option so I want you to know it’s out there!
Why would you need to supplement a breastfed baby?
There are two reasons that you may need to supplement your breastfed baby, either there is an issue with latching or an issue with supply.
If the latch is the issue, it could be for a variety of reasons. There may be a mechanical problem (tongue, lip or nipple issues), your baby may just need more time to learn, or for some reason, either the baby or the breastfeeding person may be unable to nurse at the moment.
When supply is the issue, it is often because it takes some time for your milk to come in. Sometimes you do have colostrum at the time of birth and sometimes not. On average it can take two to five days after birth for your milk to come in. Nursing and pumping are great ways to increase your supply but your baby may need to supplement with either donor milk or formula in the meantime.
What is cup feeding for newborns?
Many people are surprised to know that even very tiny babies can cup feed. Some Kansas City Hospitals offer special cups for cup feeding your new baby in their hospitals. These cups have measurements listed on the side to keep track of intake and a small reservoir that allows the baby to slowly take in a small amount of the fluid at a time. These are a convenient option for cup feeding, however, if this option is not available to you then any small cup or spoon with work.
Why would you want to cup feed a newborn?
You may wish to cup feed for a variety of reasons. If your newborn struggles to latch, then a cup would be beneficial as the milk is simply lapped from the cup and there is no need to latch onto a nipple. You may also wish to cup feed if the baby is needing a supplemental feeding after birth and you do not want to introduce an artificial nipple. Bottles require a different latch and sucking action than is required for breastfeeding and some parents want to avoid nipple confusion. Another reason you may choose to cup feed is to avoid overfeeding. Bottles drip milk into the baby’s mouth with little to no effort required, whereas with a cup you must bring the liquid to their mouth where they draw it in and swallow. This process must be repeated slowly over and over until they are full. This paced feeding style is more similar to breastfeeding and allows your baby enough time for the milk to reach their stomach and for them to feel full.
Deciding how to give your newborn a supplemental feeding should be a conversation between you and your care team. Knowing all of the options available to you allows you to make informed decisions. I hope this post has offered you new information to think about. As you know, parenting is not “one size fits all” so knowing all of your options can help you feel much more at ease should you be faced with the need to supplement your new baby.
The best way to support anyone on their breastfeeding journey is to help them feel calm, comfortable, and supported!