“Help! My Baby Prefers the Bottle Over the Breast”

 

Bonjour Mamas!

Forgive me for the long break. but we recently moved and now, I'm unpacked and back! My lactation studies and the experience I am gaining at weekly breastfeeding support groups has taught me so much. One interesting lesson (or trend) is when Moms have challenges getting baby back on the breast after others tried to be helpful by bottle feeding. 

Sometimes, even when you’re doing your best to breastfeed, your little one starts showing a strong preference for the bottle. Maybe they get frustrated at the breast, fuss, or refuse to latch altogether. Mama, if you’re experiencing this, you are not alone — and it’s not your fault. 💛

Why Does Bottle Preference Happen?
Bottles can deliver milk faster and more easily than the breast. Babies are smart! They might realize that the bottle gives them an easier flow without as much effort. This doesn’t mean they’re rejecting you — it just means they’re adapting to the easier method.

What Can You Do?
✨ Pace bottle feeding. Slow down bottle feeds by holding the bottle more horizontally and offering frequent pauses. This mimics the slower flow at the breast.
✨ Try skin-to-skin. Spend time cuddling with your baby shirtless, even outside of feeding times, to rebuild that breast connection.
✨ Offer the breast when baby is calm. Right after a nap or when they’re sleepy can be a great time.

Remember, transitioning back to breastfeeding may take time and patience. You’re offering love, nourishment, and comfort no matter what. 💕

You’ve got this, Mama. 🫶

WIC Moms Deserve the Gold - Here's Why You're Already Winning!

Hi Moms,

Are you a WIC Mom? I was, and I have a few key take-aways to share about my experience. You might be surprised. Knowledge is power, so get informed and have the support you deserve.

I’ve been in those WIC offices. I’ve filled out the forms. I’ve waited in line with holding my baby and praying she wouldn’t have a meltdown, while I tried to listen and take in the info I so badly needed.

And let me tell you something—being a WIC Mom is not a “less than” situation. It’s a resourceful, strong, doing-the-best-for-my-baby kind of situation. Period.

Here’s what I wish more of us knew about how powerful WIC can be when it comes to breastfeeding support. You can also visit: https://nevadawic.org/

1. WIC peer counselors are real-life angels

Many of them are moms too. They’ve been where you are. They’re trained, supportive, and they actually take the time to listen. I’ve had WIC counselors give me tips that no doctor ever mentioned—things that made a real difference.

2. They help with more than food

WIC offers breastfeeding classes, pump rentals, referrals to lactation consultants (which will be me soon!), and help with things like latch issues and milk supply concerns. If you need a pump and qualify, they’ll work with you to get one—even a hospital-grade one, in some cases.

3. You’re building a legacy

Feeding your baby—whether it’s through breastfeeding and/or pumping - is not just about today. It’s about building a strong foundation. You are breaking cycles, showing up, and doing the work. That is legacy work, Mom.

4. You deserve dignity and support, always

Being part of WIC doesn’t define your worth—it reveals your power to seek out help and take care of your baby in smart, resourceful ways. That’s strength. That’s love.

To every WIC Mom out there reading this: I see you. You are enough. You are doing beautifully. And you absolutely deserve gold.

With love,
Your Milky Way Maman 💖