Supplementing Breastmilk with Formula
Some breastfeeding mums find that occasionally they need to give their babies a formula feed. This is not recommended as it can adversely affect your milk supply.
Remember breastmilk works on a supply and demand basis.
Also, if you miss a feed you are likely to ovulate. If you are relying on breastfeeding for contraception then you may get pregnant again!
Instead you should try to express and store some breastmilk and use it as required.
However, if it is absolutely necessary to feed the baby formula, for example, if you require medication which is contradicted whilst breastfeeding, you should try to express the breastmilk the baby should have had in order to maintain your supply.
You will notice baby's stools change if he has any formula. He may also become constipated. Fully breastfed babies do not get constipated. If this happens try cutting out or reducing the formula, giving drinks of cooled boiled water or feeding only breastmilk until the problem clears up.
