Supporting Formula-Fed Babies

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Encourage mothers in the immediate postpartum period to begin expression of breastmilk early (by hand or pump) to optimize milk supply. Use formula supplementation only when medically indicated and following informed decision making.

Health professionals may wonder how to support families who choose to formula-feed their babies within a baby-friendly setting. The good news is that the Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI) includes families who choose to bottle- or formula-feed their babies.

Several ways that the BFI at BC Women's supports formula feeding families:

  • Skin-to-skin care: all families should experience the benefits
  • Non-separation policy: all families benefit from our policy, which helps enable effective teaching and awareness of their unique baby
  • Infant feeding information provided to families: staff act as an advocate for the baby by giving families this information to help them make an informed decision and then carries out the family's wishes
  • Formula information: we provide accurate and timely information on the safe provision of formula when formula is required. We provide instructions on the safe preparation and storage of formula
  • No marketing of formula: the World Health Organization (WHO) prohibits marketing of formula – decisions on purchasing and using formula are based on clinical need rather than marketing or advertising

More information on formula feeding:

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