Formula Feeding

There are also different types of each brand of formula:  Infant formula with Lipil (DHA and ARA) which is marketed to be the most like breastmilk, GentleEase formulas which is where the proteins are partially broken down so that it is easier to digest and helps with gas and fussiness, ProSobee is a soy based formula for babies that are lactose intolerant, A.R. which has rice added to make the formula thicker to help with refulx, Nutramegin which helps to reduce colic, LactoFree Lipil same as lipil above only lactose free (soy based), Enfacare Lipil for those with low birth weights to help gain weight, Low Iron when doctor recommended, Pregestimil for those babies with fat malabsorption problems.  The products listed are all Enfamil products, here is the list of Similac Products in the same order.  Similac Advanced, Isomil Advanced (soy), Lactose-Free with Iron, Alimentum with iron (colic/fussiness), NeoSure (preterm, low birth weight), also a new Organic Similac Advanced.

As you can see there are a lot of choices for formula and the decision is best made between you and your pediatrician.  Some people need to change formula several times to find the right one that works for their children.

Pros of Formula Feeding

• Formula fed babies sometimes sleep longer than breastfed babies, though this really varies with each child.
• Your spouse/partner will be able to help with most/all feedings
• Freedom for mom to eat/drink what she wants
• Convenience

Cons of Formula Feeding

• Cost of formula
• The chance that twins will each need a different type of formula
• Mixing the formula
• Sometimes mothers feel guilt for not breastfeeding

Tips for Easier Formula Feeding

• Make formula in batches, store in a pitcher in the refrigerator, this way you can fill bottles as needed.
• Always have extra formula on hand
• You can “prop” each twin up, and hold bottles in each of their mouths. Bouncy seats work really well for feeding both at the same time.

Precautions and Guidelines

• Always discard unused formula
• Wash bottles and nipples with a bottle/nipple brush and hot soapy water before reusing.
• Make sure any premade formula is stored in the refrigerator

Suggested Supplies

• 6-12 bottles
• Extra nipples
• Bottle/nipple brush
• Bottle drying rack
• Extra formula
• Bottle warmer
• Burp cloths
• Bibs

Written by dawnmj and Kebs

When I thought I was only having one baby, I was planning on formula feeding. When I found out I was having two babies, I knew I was going to formula feed. I can't explain it, but I just have always known that breastfeeding wasn't for me. My boys have never been sick and they are huge, so I must be doing something right.  –Jennifur

I formula feed the twins because I enjoy the break. My husband can help, and it helps build a bond with him. He enjoys being able to do that. When I breast fed, all he could do was change diapers at first. It became no fun, he always got the raw deal. This way he can help me, and spend some quality time with the twins. Also, I am more comfortable with it at this stage in my life. I have 4 older kids, and breastfeed would have taken up too much time away from them. I don't think it would have been fair. –Judie DJ

I formula fed. I planned on it from the beginning. I knew I was going to be overwhelmed. Actually, it never crossed my mind, except while on the message boards. No one in my family ever breastfed. Well, the last 3 generations, anyway. I never saw it.
I knew I could bond with the babies without BFing. I also wanted my DH to bond with the babies as much as possible. I loved watching him feed a baby as I was. --Spuds