Skip to content
  • Home
  • Pregnancy
  • Childbirth
  • Postpartum
  • Breastfeeding
  • Baby
  • Mental Health
  • Contact

Should You Top Off with Formula in the Early Days of Breastfeeding? Pros & Cons

Posted on April 17, 2025April 5, 2025 By Kirsten Fisch

Breastfeeding can be an emotional and physical rollercoaster, especially in the early days when you and your baby are learning together. One of the most common concerns for new parents is whether their baby is getting enough milk. This worry often leads some to consider “topping off” with formula—a practice where a baby receives supplemental formula in addition to breastfeeding.

But is it the right choice for you and your baby? Let’s explore the pros and cons.

Pros of Topping Off with Formula

1. Ensures Baby Gets Enough Nutrition

Newborns have tiny stomachs, and while colostrum (the first milk) is packed with nutrients, it’s produced in small amounts. If a baby struggles to latch effectively or isn’t getting enough milk, formula supplementation can prevent dehydration and excessive weight loss.

2. Helps Babies with Blood Sugar or Jaundice Issues

Some newborns, especially those with low birth weight or medical concerns, may need extra nutrition to stabilize their blood sugar or reduce the risk of jaundice. In these cases, healthcare providers may recommend temporary formula supplementation.

3. Allows for Rest & Recovery

Breastfeeding around the clock is exhausting. Introducing a small amount of formula can allow a partner or caregiver to take over a feeding, giving the birthing parent some much-needed rest.

4. Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Many parents experience stress over whether their baby is getting enough milk. If topping off with formula eases your anxiety and allows you to enjoy feeding your baby more, it may be worth considering.

Cons of Topping Off with Formula

1. May Impact Milk Supply

Breast milk production is a supply-and-demand process. If your baby takes formula, they may nurse less often, signaling to your body to produce less milk. This can lead to a lower milk supply over time.

2. Possible Nipple Confusion or Preference

Some babies may prefer the faster flow of a bottle and become frustrated with breastfeeding. This is sometimes called “nipple confusion,” though not all babies struggle with switching between breast and bottle.

3. Changes in Gut Health

Breast milk contains beneficial bacteria and prebiotics that help shape a baby’s gut microbiome. Introducing formula early may alter this balance, though the long-term effects are still debated.

4. Emotional & Logistical Challenges

For parents who want to breastfeed exclusively, supplementing with formula can sometimes lead to feelings of guilt or disappointment. Additionally, adding formula means extra bottles to prepare, clean, and track.

Making the Right Choice for You & Your Baby

If you’re considering topping off with formula, it’s essential to assess why. Are you feeling pressured, or is there a medical need? Consulting with a lactation consultant or pediatrician can help you determine whether supplementation is necessary and how to do it in a way that supports your breastfeeding goals.

For parents who want to continue breastfeeding but need to supplement, options like paced bottle feeding, using a syringe or spoon, or supplementing at the breast with a supplemental nursing system (SNS) can help protect milk supply and encourage continued nursing.

Ultimately, the best feeding choice is the one that ensures both you and your baby are thriving—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Whether breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination of both, fed is best!

Have you experienced the decision to supplement with formula? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Post navigation

Previous post
Next post

Kirsten Fisch

Kirsten Fisch, MSN, RNC-MNN, IBCLC, LCCE
Kirsten Fisch is a women's health nurse specializing in high-risk pregnancy and postpartum care. Certified in Maternal Newborn Nursing, a board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC), and a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, she works with women from conception through postpartum. Passionate about empowering women during their reproductive journeys, Kirsten combines evidence-based care with compassionate support to promote health and well-being for mothers and babies.

Related Posts

Why Labor Sometimes Doesn’t Progress: Understanding the Reasons and What to Do

Posted on August 13, 2024August 12, 2024

Labor is an incredible, complex process that brings a new life into the world. However, as magical as it is, it doesn’t always go according…

Read More

Estimated Fetal Weight: How Much Does It Really Matter for Your Delivery?

Posted on September 23, 2024September 23, 2024

When you’re expecting, one of the things that might come up during prenatal appointments is your baby’s estimated fetal weight (EFW). Your provider might mention…

Read More

Navigating the Ambivalence of Motherhood: It’s Okay to Feel Conflicted

Posted on October 26, 2024October 26, 2024

Motherhood is often painted as a time filled with pure joy, love, and fulfillment. We see images of serene, glowing moms cradling their babies, radiating…

Read More

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

©2025 | WordPress Theme by SuperbThemes