Combination Feeding: Using Breast Milk and Formula

What is Combination Feeding?

Combination feeding means you feed your baby both breast milk and formula. It may also be called “mixed” feeding.

Some common reasons for combination feeding:

• You have concerns about your breast milk supply.
• Your health care provider recommends it.
• You or your baby has medical needs.
• You're going back to work or school.
• It works better for your family.

Tip #1: Make Every Feeding the Same

Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding, try to make feedings feel similar for your baby.

When bottle feeding:

• Use paced bottle feeding to mimic breastfeeding timing.
• Switch which side you hold your baby on.
• Burp your baby when you switch sides.
• Hold your baby skin-to-skin when you can.

Tip #2: Maintain Your Breast Milk Supply

If possible, wait to start combination feeding until your breast milk supply is established. This usually happens 10-15 days after birth.

If you need to start combination feeding right away, there are a few steps you can take to protect your supply.

How to maintain your breast milk supply:

• Feed or pump 8-12 times every 24 hours. This keeps your breast milk supply steady.
• Pump on a regular schedule. Every time you give formula instead of breastfeeding, remember to pump. This tells your body to keep making breast milk.
• Breastfeed when you're together. Give a bottle when you're apart. Teach caregivers to use paced bottle feeding.
• If your child care is near your work or school, you may be able to visit during breaks to breastfeed.

Every Family Is Different

Combination feeding looks different for every family. If you have questions or concerns, talk to WIC staff, a lactation consultant, or your health care provider.