Underweight-Baby Feeding

First, it's important to understand that current growth charts are based on the growth of formula-fed infants. Typically, a breastfed baby at 4 to 6 months of age is leaner than a formula-fed baby of the same age. Often, the formula-fed baby is in fact overweight and the breastfed baby is in the normal range.

So, before worrying about switching to formula, talk to your pediatrician to determine if your baby is truly underweight. If your child's length and head diameter are increasing appropriately, and she is otherwise healthy, there is no reason to add formula to your baby feeding.

If your baby is not gaining weight because of problems with breastfeeding, such as a poor latch, find a good lactation consultant to assist you in problem solving. Breast milk is vastly healthier for your infant, so I recommend that you do whatever you can to continue breastfeeding as long as possible, even if your baby registers low on the growth charts.