Q:
I'm a working mom who will be away for at most 12 hours a day. My child is 8 months old and is reluctant to have formula. I still feed him breast milk when I'm home. He is having solids. So, is it needed to feed him formula milk when I'm away?
A:
If he's not losing any weight and appears to be growing, don't worry. I suspect he's making up for his milk needs by nursing frequently when you're at home. You might consider pumping or hand-expressing your milk as a backup, freezing it in small quantities of 2 to 4 ounces if possible.
I recommend smaller amounts because you won't waste large quantities if he chooses not to drink it. Since he's eating solid foods and is able to swallow, he should be able to handle a sipper cup without difficulty. If you decide not to do this, nurse him frequently while you're home, and he'll make up for those few nursings he missed while you were gone.
Susan M. Leisner RD, IBCLC, RLC Nutritionist & Lactation Consultant
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.