Favorite Things: Dr. Brown's Bottles

I first discovered Dr. Brown's bottles when Ava was having some serious issues with gas after she switched from breastfeeding to bottles. The poor thing was in so much pain that she would arch her back and scream...and I think it was almost as painful for us to watch. We tried gas drops, which helped a little but didn't completely solve the problem. 

Looking for a better solution, I bought a couple Dr. Brown's bottles, and they were fantastic! They are BPA free and the key is that they have two extra pieces which make up the "vent system." 

According to the company's website, "the Dr. Brown's baby bottle features a patented internal vent system not found in any other bottle. Our bottle is fully-vented for vacuum-free feeding. We call this positive-pressure flow, similar to breastfeeding, which allows babies to feed at their own pace. As the baby feeds, air is channeled from the nipple collar (not the silicone nipple) through the vent system, to the back of the bottle. Air bypasses the breastmilk or formula which means no oxidation of nutrients."

I know that sounds complicated, but all you need to worry about is the fact that it works! After switching to these bottles, Ava's gas pains went away completely. I was a believer.

We started with the wide-neck bottles because they were similar to the Medela nipples she was used to (note that these are also good to use if you are still breastfeeding because they help prevent the dreaded "nipple confusion"). 

And eventually switched her to the standard bottles, which she preferred. 

The only drawback is the fact that there are two extra pieces to wash. But to me, it is completely worth it...both for Ava's comfort and my sanity :). 

On a side note, I am glad these bottles worked out, because I was not brave enough to try "The Windi" (despite how much I love the NoseFrida). If you have not heard of this lovely gadget before, please read the product description. Although it seems like something that would be featured on an SNL commercial, it is not a joke....although it is pretty darn hilarious.