Help - How much formula to take at each feed?

[Sus]

Hi - I am new to this forum and wonder if you could offer some advice.  My DD is 12 weeks old, I was b/f'ing but have decided to introduce formula with a view to combining both if possible (with only 1 b/f in the evening).  I am completely new to formula and my question is - on the side of the tin it says for a 12 week old she should take 6-8oz 6 times a day.  I make up 6oz's but she only really takes 2 at a time, sometimes 3.5 but usually only 2 every couple of hours.  Is it ok to carry on like this, should I be trying to make her go longer between feeds in the hope that she will take more?  I'm not sure if it's normal for babies to only take this amount.

Also, should I keep trying her with the bottle after her initial 2oz, say 15 minutes later or should I just let her feed once?

Thanks

Sus
x

[Mom2X&F&V]

Hi. At that age ds was having 3 or 4 oz every 3 hours. Sometimes 2.5 in the morning feed. So you should go by her needs and not for what it says on the label. Formula is heavier than bf so 3 hours between feed should be necessary unless they are having a growth spurt. Some babies eat more and some eat less, but they know for sure how much they need. Just follow her cues. I also remember changing to a faster nipple at 3 months. A #2 nipple as he was getting bored. But every baby is different. Ds is now almost 4 months and still feeding between 4 to 5 oz sometimes 6. So you should't worry. HTH.

[* Paula *]

I agree with the PP, every baby is different and you cannot predict how much formula your lo will acutally take.

I would first try the faster flow nipple and see how you get on.  If you find that she is taking more that is fine, and then from there you can judge how much to offer your lo.  At this stage your lo is still learning how to take from the bottle, so give it a bit of time, and I am sure she will soon up her intake.

Good luck.

Paula

[Sus]

Thank you so much for your replies.  I've decided to go with it and let her take the lead.  I just worry that she is grazing and not filling herself up, but it's early days and she is still learning.

Thanks folks
x

[* Paula *]

Keep us posted on how you get on.