Introducing the Bottle to My EBF Baby: A Bittersweet First

Recently we introduced the bottle to our exclusively breastfed baby. I didn’t think it would feel like such a big moment, but it did—and it brought up more emotions than I was prepared for.

We used the Momi glass bottles, which I chose after lots of research (and a little mom gut instinct). They’re beautifully made and feel safe in my hands, but that didn’t stop the wave of feelings I had as I filled one with pumped milk and handed it over.

Baby took to it fairly quickly—honestly, I was surprised. He didn’t fight it. No dramatic refusal or gagging. Just quiet, curious acceptance. But as he drank, I could tell he wasn’t in love with it. Not like he is with nursing. He paused often, unsure. I watched every little movement, every expression, trying to read how he was feeling.

And somewhere in those quiet moments, a heaviness hit me. I felt like I had betrayed him a little.

The boob has been his safe space. His comfort. His nourishment. It’s where he’s soothed, snuggled, and bonded with me since day one. And now, here I was—offering him something else. Something unfamiliar and less warm. I knew it was necessary in the long run, but in that moment, it just felt… wrong.

He drank just 1 ounce out of the 3 I had pumped before the two-hour mark passed—at which point, according to Google, the milk had to be tossed. That stung too. If you know, you know: liquid gold, wasted.

But it’s a learning curve—for both of us. Me, learning to let go of being his only source of comfort and nourishment. Him, learning that love and care can come in different forms, from more than just mama.

And while part of me ached, another part was melting. Because I got to witness something beautiful: the love of my life feeding our baby boy, gently cradling him and locking eyes just like I do. Our little guy reaching for his daddy’s beard mid-feed, totally at peace. And then our daughter, the proud big sister, beaming as she helped hold the bottle. That moment—the three of them together—was pure magic.

So yes, introducing the bottle stirred up some emotions I wasn’t expecting. Yes, it’s going to take time for both of us to adjust. But it’s also expanding the circle of connection around our baby. He’s learning that love can come from many hands, and I’m learning that letting go of one role makes space for others to step in.

It’s not a betrayal. It’s growth. And like most parts of motherhood, it’s a little messy and a lot beautiful.

What We Used + Loved

🍼 Momi Glass Bottles
Not an affiliate link—just real love for these gorgeous, minimal, and easy-to-clean glass bottles.

🧼 Breastmilk Storage Bags
Leak-proof, freezer-safe, and durable. Because losing a bag of pumped milk is heartbreak.

🔥 Bottle Warmer
A must when you’re juggling temp-sensitive breastmilk and a hungry baby who doesn’t want to wait.

🛋️ Hoppy Nursing Pillow + Cover
This one gave me extra support while bottle feeding and nursing—especially postpartum when everything felt sore. Highly recommend having one within reach.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly use and love.