How To Avoid Nipple Confusion

Avoiding nipple confusion is important when combining breastfeeding with bottle-feeding, especially in the early weeks of a baby’s life. Nipple confusion can happen when a baby switches between breast and bottle (or pacifiers) and begins to prefer one feeding method over the other—usually the bottle, since it delivers milk more easily.

Here’s a practical guide to help prevent nipple confusion:

👶 1. Delay Introducing Bottles and Pacifiers

Exclusively breastfeed for the first 3–4 weeks, if possible.
This helps your baby establish a strong breastfeeding latch and stimulates milk supply.
Wait to introduce pacifiers until breastfeeding is well-established, unless medically necessary.

🍼 2. Use Breastfeeding-Friendly Bottles and Nipples

If bottle-feeding is necessary:

Choose a slow-flow nipple to mimic the slower flow of breastfeeding.
Use wide-base nipples that encourage a deep latch, similar to breastfeeding.
Look for bottles labeled “nipple confusion–free,” “natural latch,” or “breast-like.”

🐢 3. Practice “Paced Bottle Feeding”

This method slows the flow of milk and makes bottle feeding more like breastfeeding:

Hold the bottle horizontally to prevent milk from flowing too fast.
Let the baby suck and pause naturally (don’t force the bottle).
Switch sides during feeding (like with breastfeeding).
Allow the baby to control the feeding pace.

🫶 4. Maintain Skin-to-Skin Contact

Frequent skin-to-skin time reinforces the breastfeeding bond and encourages baby to prefer the breast.

🕰️ 5. Feed at Early Hunger Cues

Feed your baby when they show signs of hunger (rooting, lip-smacking, hand-to-mouth movement), rather than waiting until they cry. This helps with calm, effective latching.

🔄 6. Offer the Breast Before the Bottle

When supplementing with formula or pumped milk, always offer the breast first to encourage natural feeding and prevent bottle preference.

👩‍⚕️ 7. Seek Lactation Support

If you’re concerned about nipple confusion:

Consult a lactation consultant for tailored guidance.
They can help with latch issues, milk supply, and transitioning between breast and bottle.

⚠️ Signs of Nipple Confusion

Baby fusses at the breast but drinks well from a bottle
Shallow or painful latching
Decreased interest in breastfeeding
Clicking sounds while nursing (improper latch)