Reasons for why a baby might drink slowly out of a bottle

There are several different reasons for why a baby might drink slowly, out of a bottle. A common cause can be that the teat is not suitable for the baby's sucking strength. An incorrect teat shape or size can also make it harder for your baby to get milk.

In addition, babies drink slower when they are tired, have just woken up or easily get distracted through stimuli in their environment.

Drinking slowly doesn't have to be a problem, but if feeding always takes a long time or your baby finds it hard to finish a feed, it's a good idea to check the teat size or feeding position. Make sure the surroundings are peaceful, without a lot of background noise when you feed your baby.

Medical reasons why a baby might drink slowly out of a bottle

Sometimes a baby can drink slowly for some medical reason. A cold makes it harder to drink and breathe at the same time.

Reflux can also lead to smaller sips since your baby then needs more time to drink comfortably. Your baby will then keep bringing the milk back up, which means that it will take longer for your child to digest the milk.

For some children, a tied tongue or reduced muscle strength around the mouth can make it harder to drink, requiring more effort. Are you noticing that your baby is restless when feeding, needs to take more breaks or drinks very slowly? This is something to discuss with your health visitor or your GP. They will help you investigate and will give advice tailored to your baby.

The role the choice of teats play in babies struggling with feeding

The shape, the size and the flow of a teat has a great impact on the speed with which your baby can drink. A teat with an opening that is too small results in a slower milk flow which means that drinking will be slower.

A teat with a larger opening leads to a faster milk flow. This stops the baby from getting frustrated because the feed is taking too long. The shape of the teat is also important: a round Natural teat supports the natural suction rhythm.

A Dental-teat is better for babies who need something more sturdy. Are you noticing that your baby takes a long time to feed, tends to choke or become restless? In that case, a teat with a different shape or milk flow can be a good solution.

Position and environment: what works and what doesn't?

The position of your baby and the surroundings when feeding have a great impact on how peacefully and continuous your baby drinks. A baby that is well supported and sits a little more upright swallows easier. This way, your baby swallows less air when drinking.

A peaceful environment void of any harsh sounds, bright lights and without too much foot traffic helps your baby to focus better on the feeding.

Keep eye contact with your baby during feeding and make sure that you find a comfortable seating position. If you are relaxed, your baby will also be relaxed.

How do you know if your baby is tired or distracted?

Tiredness or distraction are more important when it comes to feeding than you think. A baby that gets tired, often looks away from you, lets go of the teat or falls asleep halfway through the feed.

Is your baby distracted? If so, you may notice that your baby is looking around a lot, focusing on sounds in the environment, or start touching objects around them with their hands.

By noticing these signals, you have the opportunity to adapt the feeding to your child's needs. React on tiredness signals by adapting the feeding rhythm. Sometimes it is enough to gently encourage your baby so that he or she starts focusing on drinking again.

Even when your baby gets distracted, it can be nice to hold your baby a little closer to you, so that your closeness helps to create a feeling of security. Have you noticed that your baby loses concentration after a couple of sips? If so, it often helps to take a short break instead of forcing it.

Tips on how to stimulate the drinking

Sometimes your baby may need a small tap on the back during feeding. Stimulate the drinking by changing your position during feeding so that your baby gets more alert.

It can also help to gently rest the teat against the roof of the mouth. This activates the natural sucking reflex. Warm the teat quickly before feeding, with lukewarm water if the teat feels too stiff. This makes the teat softer which makes it easier to drink from. Have you noticed that your baby drinks better with a teat with a different shape? If so, choose a different bottle teat.

Whatever the case: always be patient and calm during feeding. Discover what bottle and teat is best for your child. See the range from Difrax in the webshop and simply order your feeding equipment online. Do you feel that you need help? Please feel free to contact us.