Cup feeding is a skill that is easily learned by newborn and premature babies. In Europe and in the developing world, and as far back as Egyptian and Biblical times, cup feeding has been an alternative to breastfeeding for various reasons.

Recently, research has been published that shows that cup feeding is safe for newborns. Additional research has shown cup feeding safe in premature babies. In a British study, premature babies were more likely to breastfeed successfully when given cup feedings instead of bottle feedings. Most babies can cup feed when they are medically ready and about 35 weeks gestational age or older. Breastfeeding is our primary goal, so the number of cup feedings should not be more than the number of breastfeedings each day.

Why cup feed?

• It is another way to feed the baby, besides bottle feeding or tube feeding, when the mother can’t be there to breastfeed.
• To supplement breastfeedings in premature babies who can’t take a full feeding at breast.
• To avoid using a bottle when parents choose to.

Advantages of cup feeding:

• To provide a positive oral experience when the mother can’t be there to breastfeed.
• The baby controls the feeding – how quick, how much, when to rest, etc.
• It stimulates tongue and jaw movement.
• It promotes the social interaction of being held and making eye contact.
• Both parents can cup feed.

Disadvantages of cup feeding:

• A little milk is lost with dribbling.
• It is unfamiliar to many people.

How to cup feed your baby:

• Wrap your baby with the arms gently restrained in a swaddling blanket so that s/he can’t knock the milk cup away.
• Hold your baby in an upright position on your lap.
• Fill the cup only halfway to avoid spilling.
• Hold the cup to the baby’s lips. Tip the cup so that the milk just touches the lips.
• Wait for the baby to sip or lap at the milk.
• Keep the cup tilted just enough so that the milk is touching the baby’s lips.
• Do not try to pour the milk into the baby’s mouth.
• Allow pauses as the baby needs them – let the baby control the feeding.
• The baby may push some milk back into the cup, so keep the cup touching the lips.