Combination feeding, that is when a baby receives both breastmilk and formula, can seem like a flexible solution for uncertain parents. But research consistently shows that introducing formula early generally leads to the end of breastfeeding much faster than expected.
One reason is biology. Breastfeeding works on supply and demand: the more your baby feeds, the more your body produces. When formula replaces even a few feeds, the breasts are stimulated less often. And this reduces milk supply. Parents often interpret a dip in supply as their body 'not making enough milk,' when in fact the reduced supply is caused by the reduced number of breastfeeds. This creates a cycle where formula gradually replaces more feeds until breastfeeding stops completely.
There’s also the emotional side. Breastfeeding is a skill that takes time and support to establish. If formula is introduced too early, parents may not get the chance to build confidence in their body’s ability to feed their baby. Once bottles are in the mix, it makes it harder to return to exclusive breastfeeding, even if that was the original goal.
It’s important to recognise the influence of large formula companies in this space. Marketing often presents combination feeding as a convenient, modern choice—especially for busy mothers. But behind that 'message' lies a billion dollar business model: once a family begins buying formula, profits rise when breastfeeding declines. The companies know that 'just one top-up' can set the stage for long-term dependence on formula.
Parents deserve clear, unbiased information and support. Combination feeding is sometimes necessary—but it needs to be a truly informed choice, not one shaped by subtle and manipulative corporate strategies.
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