Bottle Aversion FAQ's
Here are some frequently asked questions to help reduce uncertainty before you decide whether this approach is right for your family.
How long does it take to see progress?
Most families notice early signs of reduced stress and improved comfort within 3 days however, full progress can take longer, especially if the aversion has been present for a while or if there are underlying feeding or swallowing difficulties.
Can you guarantee results?
No clinician can guarantee outcomes. With consistency, alignment between caregivers, and a responsive, low‑pressure approach, most families see meaningful improvement. My role is to guide you safely and effectively.
Will my baby start taking more milk straight away?
Not usually. The first goal is to reduce stress and rebuild trust. Intake often improves once feeding feels safe again. Pushing for volume too early can reinforce the aversion.
Do all caregivers need to follow the same approach?
Yes. Consistency is essential. Babies need predictable, repeated experiences to feel safe. Mixed approaches (responsive vs. prompting) slow progress.
What if my baby refuses the bottle completely?
This is common in feeding aversion. The approach focuses on reducing pressure, supporting regulation, and rebuilding positive associations. You will be guided on how to respond calmly and safely.
Can I continue breastfeeding alongside this approach?
Yes. Responsive feeding principles apply to both bottle and breast. We will look at how both fit into your baby’s overall feeding experience.
What if my baby has underlying medical issues?
Part of my assessment includes reviewing your baby’s medical background and feeding history. If I have concerns about feeding safety, swallowing, or growth, I may recommend pausing our work while you seek input from the appropriate professional (e.g., Speech and Language Therapist, Dietitian, GP, Health Visitor, or Paediatrician).
Will you tell me if my baby needs a referral?
Absolutely. If I observe anything that suggests feeding may be unsafe or needs specialist assessment, I will explain this clearly and guide you on next steps. This is in line with clinical guidelines and my scope of practice as an Occupational Therapist.
What if its not bottle aversion?
Drawing on medical, developmental, and feeding knowledge, we take a thorough look at what’s contributing to your baby’s difficulties and develop a plan that addresses the root cause
Will my baby lose weight when we start this approach?
Some babies take smaller volumes when we first move to a fully responsive, low‑pressure approach. This early dip is expected as your baby resets and begins to feel safer. If I have any concerns about growth or nutritional intake, I will advise you to contact your GP, Health Visitor, or a Paediatric Dietitian.
Who monitors my baby’s weight?
Weight monitoring always sits with your primary healthcare team (your baby’s GP or Health Visitor). I will ask about recent weights and growth patterns, and may recommend more frequent checks if needed.
What happens if you’re worried about my baby’s growth?
If I identify concerns about weight gain, nutritional intake, or growth patterns, I may need to pause our work and recommend referral to the appropriate professional. This ensures your baby receives the right support before continuing.
Can feeding aversion support continue if my baby is not gaining weight well?
It depends on the underlying cause. If feeding safety or nutritional intake is a concern, medical or specialist assessment is needed first. Once it is safe to continue, we can resume support if appropriate.
Do you offer emergency support?
No. I do not provide emergency or out‑of‑hours care. If you are ever concerned about your baby’s immediate safety, please contact NHS 111, your GP, or emergency services.
What do I need to provide before we start?
You’ll be asked to share your baby’s feeding history, relevant medical information, and a video of a typical feed. This helps me understand your baby’s cues, comfort, and feeding patterns before we begin.
Do you work with families outside the UK?
Yes, I can support families from around the world. All sessions are delivered in English, so you’ll need to feel confident with spoken and written English. Due to regulatory requirements, I’m unable to work with families in the US or Canada at this time.