Bottle feeding tips

Hallix

I am a new mum! With mild CP I am struggling to get my hands and arms in the right position to bottle feed my daughter. She does take it but it is a super long & uncomfortable process.
has anyone got any cheeky hacks or work arounds
Thanks
Jen

Richard_Scope

Hi @Hallix
Feeding can be a bit of a ling winded thing when you have CP. When my daughter was a baby, I used to prop her up with pillows so I had at least one arm free, for wiping her chin etc. Bouncy chairs are good because they are at an angle.

Cher_Alumni

Hi @Hallix

Congratulations on the birth of your baby daughter.  What an exciting time! 

You might find it useful to watch this YouTube video 'How I've Adapted to Feeding My Baby (Mommy with Cerebral Palsy)' recorded by a mum in the same position.

I hope that helps and enjoy these precious moments   Be sure to let us know how you get on.

Adrian_Scope

Hi @Hallix. I just wanted to offer congratulations on your daughter too. That first year flies by and they change so quickly. My youngest is now 2 and no longer has bottles but when he was little my partner used to use pillows to prop him up or to help support his weight under her arms. 
They're tiny but they can get so heavy when you're holding them for a while!

I hope you manage to find something that works for you. 

janer1967

Hi and congratulations from me too what a joy babies bring

I dont have CP nut my son always bottle fed just propped up or in his bouncy chair. I hope the advice given helps but also speak to your midwife/health visitor that is what they are there for.

Enjoy the precious time you have with your baby

Hallix

Awesome advice thanks everyone. I was nervous of saying anything anywhere else for fear of judgment 

Richard_Scope

You won't be judged here @Hallix

Hallix

The rocker didn’t work. Too laid back but propped on the bean bag seems to 

Cher_Alumni

Ah that's great!! Yep, no judgement here.  Whenever you need us shout (or type  )

Hayls20

Hi @Hallix - massive congratulations!

I too have CP and am currently expecting, so I'm partly commenting to archive it and use any tips that come up - glad the beanbag seems to do the trick x

Hallix

Hey @Hayls20 I’m happy to connect and chat if you think it could be helpful before your baby arrives. I realise now how little support there is unless you really look. Genuinely happy to answer any questions pregnancy/ birth anything really 

Hayls20

Yeah that would be amazing - you're so right x

Chloe_Scope

Hi @Hallix, just wanted to check in to see how you are finding things.

Hallix

Hi , things have improved , thanks for all the suggestions. I have asked HV to come out and observe a feed to see if she can offer any suggestions.
just really hoping I don’t get judged for reaching out to them!!

Richard_Scope

Great to read that things have improved and they will continue to. You will find your own unique ways of doing things @Hallix. Be patient with yourself
The health visitor is there to support you both and should not judge. You are doing great! 

Hallix

The support means a lot 

Richard_Scope

Hi @Hallix
Me again! These sites might have some useful equipment?

www.disabledparent.org.uk

www.themobiltyresource.com

www.pedialift.com

Hallix

Hi everyone just had an awesome visit from the HV and wanted to share in case it’s any use to anyone else. She showed me an elevated side lying position using knees and a cushion with Sophie on her side ( you tube may be your friend) As it gives them more control & slows the flow a little.  Reduce gas Also gives me a free hand!!! As no need to support the head so I can use my dominant hand for bottle control.

Hallix

Oh @Richard_Scope I am not a patient person ?

Tori_Scope

I'm really glad you've found a great solution, and that your health visitor was so useful @Hallix! And congratulations on the new baby

Richard_Scope

Patience isn't something that came naturally to me either @Hallix. After 12 years I'm almost there