Breastmilk Supplementation

Some babies may require supplementation (extra milk) in their first few days, or possibly longer. This may be a result of insufficient maternal supply, illness or another reason. Supplementation may be mother’s own milk, expressed (MOM) or donated breastmilk from a donor. There are many ways to provide supplementation to your baby, these include but are not limited to finger tube feeding, using a teaspoon, open cup, or taping a narrow tube to your breast. Becoming informed about your options prior to birth is advisable and for those who are considering using donor breastmilk there are number of factors to consider. 

Breastmilk has many health benefits but it is important to be aware that it may contain viruses and/or traces of medications or foods that the donor mother has been exposed to. Most donors will have been screened for viruses in their first antenatal bloods and social screening is recommended to ensure you are happy with the donor(s) who will be providing milk for your baby. If you are interested in donating breastmilk or for more information to ensure your decision is well informed speak to your LMC or an LC. 

Supplementary feeding methods

SFT - This uses a small tube connected to a bottle of milk. The fine tube is placed at the nipple and goes into the baby’s mouth when they latch, allowing the baby to get milk from the breast and via the tube at the same time. This is best for low supply to provide the additional milk they need if they are able to latch. 

Cup Feeding - Using a small medicine cup or silver nipple cup, place it at the bottom lip of the baby, and they will gently lap it up, much like a cat drinking. It is important not to tip the cup back too far, as this can pour milk into their mouth. 

Finger Feeding - Use a clean finger inserted into your baby’s mouth with a fine tube connected to a bottle of milk. Your baby will cup your finger like a taco (just like in breastfeeding), and sucking will draw the milk through the tube and into their mouth. This is a great way to top up or offer breast milk in the first week of life if they are unable to directly breastfeed. 

Bottle - The most commonly used choice is a bottle. It is important to select the slowest flow bottle possible and consider the shape of the teat to ensure it supports moving between breast and bottle.