If you are unable to, or do not wish to breastfeed your child, speak with your doctor or health professional before deciding to use infant formula. Once the decision is made to discontinue breastfeeding, it is difficult to reverse that decision. The use of infant formula has financial implications for the family as more than one can (450g) of infant formula will need to be purchased each week. You may want to discuss your choice of formula with your health professional as there are many varieties and making a choice can be confusing.
Choosing the correct infant formula
All infant formula available in Australia is required to be manufactured according to regulations. Starter infant formula will provide adequate nutrition for your infant for the first 6 months. If you make the decision to use formula (and as cows milk as a drink is not recommended until after 12 months of age), you will need to continue to use it up until the infant is 12 months of age. You may want to choose a Follow on formula after your baby is 6 months of age, but be aware that Follow on formula is not suitable for infants before 6 months.
Making up infant formula
When making up infant formula, follow the instructions on the can and only use the scoop provided inside the can you are using. Some manufacturers provide a scoop leveler inside the rim of the can – this is a hygienic and safe way to make sure your scoop of infant formula powder is accurate.
Sterilising bottles is an important part of preparing infant formula. You need to make sure all traces of infant formula are removed from the bottles prior to sterilising.
When travelling with formula, take boiled water in clean bottles. Take your formula separately.
Do not use bottle warmers as these promote the growth of bad bacteria in the infant formula and may make your baby ill.
It is not recommended to warm infant formula in a microwave since it is heated unevenly and often at temperatures that are too high. Hot "spots" can occur in a bottle and may accidentally burn your child.
Feeding your baby
When feeding infant formula hold your baby close, as you would if breast-feeding. During feeding, your baby is most alert, and spending this time quietly together can help your baby settle into a routine. Some health professionals will suggest changing sides with bottle-feeding as this can help with eye development.
Some public health advisors recommend using a cup and spoon to feed babies with infant formula instead of using bottles and teats. You may seek advice from your health professional on which of these two methods is more appropriate in your case.
Never put your baby to bed with a bottle as this increases the chance of dental caries and middle ear infections. Avoid "prop feeding" or letting your baby feed itself especially when they are lying down.