Understanding Infant Nutritional Needs
Infants need either breastmilk, formula, or both to grow and stay hydrated. Feeding patterns and amounts change as your baby grows.
Common Types of Formula:
- Milk-based formula – most common.
- Soy formula – lactose or cow’s milk sensitivity (rarely needed).
- Hydrolysate formula – for babies allergic to both milk and soy proteins.
Paced Bottle Feeding:
Use slow-flow nipple, hold baby upright, pause every 30–60 seconds to mimic breastfeeding.
Formula Feeding Patterns
- Amount per Feed:
- First week: 1–2 oz.
- By 1 month: 3–4 oz.
- By 2–6 months: 5–8 oz. per feed (max 32 oz/day).
- Frequency:
- 0–3 months: every 2–3 hours during day, night feeds as needed.
- 3–9 months: every 3–4 hours during day.
Storage Reminders:
- Store prepared bottles in fridge, use within 24 hours.
When to Contact Poppins
📱 Contact us again when:
- Baby refuses feeds.
- Concerns about weight gain or growth.
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice).
- Less than 3 wet diapers/day.
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, poor tone, sunken soft spot).
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
- Concerns about milk protein allergy (blood in stools, eczema, severe fussiness).
- Difficulty introducing bottle by 8 weeks.
- Ongoing feeding challenges after following care plan.
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care if your child has:
- Severe dehydration signs (no urination >8 hours, lethargy).
- Trouble breathing during feeds.
- Excessive vomiting after every feed.
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
