Mother’s milk is the best milk for the baby. It gives the baby the ultimate nutrition to grow into a healthy individual. Breastfeeding moms do their best to feed their babies wherever and whenever they demand it. However, there are situations where breastfeeding is not possible directly. In such situations, feeding your baby with expressed breastmilk is ok. Many breastfeeding moms share their experiences and say breastfeeding feels like learning to ride a bike. You gear up all energized, take help, and learn to ride, as you take your journey, some days may seem like a joyride, some days may be hard and you might have to put in more effort than usual. The same goes with breastfeeding, but we at Vega Baby & Mom try to help you through the journey of Happy Parenting and help you have a smooth ride. You may need a few products to start with, such as a breast pump to express breast milk and a feeding bottle to feed expressed breast milk. Along with choosing the right bottle, it is important to choose the right nipple as well.
Here are a few things to consider before you buy a feeding bottle nipple
Material – It is important to choose the right material when choosing a nipple for your baby’s smooth feeding. Both latex and silicone nipples are available in the market however Silicone is always the preferred choice because of its unique features. Vega Baby & Mom Silicone Nipple also bear features such as being made of food-grade silicone and thus being non-toxic and safe for your baby.
Size & Flow – Choosing the right size and flow of the nipple according to your baby’s age is also crucial. It helps your baby get the right nutrition the right way. If your baby drinks a small amount of milk at a time a small-sized nipple with a slow flow rate is better. As your baby grows their feeding requirement changes with age, they need more milk at such times you should go for a nipple that has a higher flow rate. You can choose from Vega Baby & Mom Nipple which are available in different sizes based on different flow rates.
Shape- The shape of the nipple can play an important role in making the feeding experience comfortable and smooth for the baby. Babies often prefer a nipple that mimics the feeling of natural feeding. You can choose Vega Baby & Mom Regular Neck Nipples that are soft and elastic and mimic the feel of natural feeding or you can also choose Vega Baby & Mom Wide Neck Nipples that help your baby latch naturally and encourages natural sucking action.
Anti–Colic Valve – One important feature that often gets missed is the anti-colic valve that prevents colic discomfort and gas in babies. Vega Baby & Mom silicone nipples are enabled with this feature and help prevent excessive air swallowing and help minimize colic discomfort and gas.
When to switch nipple sizes
This is an important step that parents often forget about when they choose a nipple it is important to switch nipples and upgrade to a different size.
Here are a few signs for you to change the nipple :
- Look for any wear, tear, or discoloration.
- Your baby needs a bottle with a fast milk rate if they are applying too much energy to suck milk from the bottle and have to do a lot of jaw work.
- Your baby needs a bottle with a slow milk rate if the milk flow is too rapid for your baby to gulp down.
- If you feel there is a change in firmness or elasticity of the nipple.
Care and Caution
- The nipple opening and ventilation hole can be clogged. Clogging can lead to nipple collapse. The tip of the nipple is very delicate. When using a nipple brush to clean it, gently press the nipple with the tip of the finger while washing.
- Sterilize the nipple after each use. Ensure the holes are clean and no milk residue is accumulated in them.
- Do not poke holes in the nipple by yourself, any sharp edges made while doing so may rub against your baby’s palate. If you want to upgrade consider buying a new nipple.
- Do not microwave the silicone nipple. Sterilize it only as per the manufacturer's instructions mentioned on the package.
