I am asked this question a lot. There are several reasons why these mums need to transition to the bottle, going back to work is a big one, just needing a break, illness and others want dad/grandma to have the bonding experience. The answer is still the same, when your baby is well established with breastfeeding (breastfeeds well) usually by the second week. Every baby is different and so are your preferences, you may offer 1-2 bottles a day, every other day or every 3rd day. It is your choice when to start offering the bottle but as the baby gets older they are more resistant to change and it may be a struggle for them to transition to the bottle. You may have to try a few different types of nipples to see what works best. When you are holding the baby, positioning as if you are breastfeeding does work well. If they are really hungry, that is the best time to offer and if they refuse then wait 30 min and try again. As baby gets older, their personality is strong and they know what they want. You may need to offer breast first and half way through the session, when they are more relaxed, offer the bottle again. Just be patient, it may take a few days for baby to adjust. Give yourself at least a week of transitioning and don't leave it to the last minute.
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