Milk flow rates from bottle nipples: What we know and why it matters

Existing studies on milk flow rates have indicated that flow rate varies widely among different types of nipples. Within the same type of nipple, there can also be significant variation in flow rates from one nipple to another. Factors such as type of milk, preparation of milk, and thickening of milk can impact flow. Altering flow rate is a simple intervention that can be used to improve safety of feeding in young infants. Data from existing studies should be used to guide decision-making around nipple selection in infants who are medically complex or struggling to feed. Infants should be fed with a flow rate that allows them to feed safely and efficiently; there are no data to support the need for infants to feed with a standard-flow nipple prior to discharge.

Authors: Britt Pados

Publication Information: Nursing for Women’s Health. 2021; 25(3): 229-235. doi: 10.1016/j.nwh.2021.03.006

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