Families are reporting challenges purchasing infant formula in some stores. Formula companies have confirmed that formula is available and store supplies can be restocked.
- If you are required to self-isolate due to suspected COVID19 infection, ask a friend or family member to purchase infant formula for the duration of your isolation period (14 days).
- Purchase ONLY the amount of formula you require for the isolation period; purchasing more than required may lead to shortages for others.
- If you are having difficulty finding infant formula in stores, please contact formula companies directly; they may be able to identify which stores have formula available.
BC Women's and BC Children's hospitals are unable to provide infant formula for community use.
You may not be able to or choose not to breastfeed.
If you have enough information to make an informed decision to formula-feed your baby, we want to support and help you to do so.
Sometimes parents who have decided to formula-feed their babies wonder if the Baby-Friendly Initiative applies to them. The answer is yes.
Skin-to-skin care (STS) is important for all babies. STS care immediately after birth helps babies recover from their birth – they are warmer, less stressed and cry less. It helps their heart rate and breathing. As your baby grows, continue skin-to-skin holding every day for the first month or so and whenever your baby needs comfort. Your partner or another trusted person can hold your baby skin-to-skin and provide your baby with some of the same benefits. Regardless of how you feed your baby, cuddle your baby STS to enjoy the amazing benefits.
When using a bottle, use responsive bottle feeding. Responsive bottle feeding is thought to be less stressful for your baby, reduces the risk of overfeeding, and more closely mimics breastfeeding than traditional bottle feeding.
