Absolutely, selecting the right bottle nipple is crucial for maintaining a smooth breastfeeding routine, especially when you need to switch between breast and bottle feeding. I've also used the Medela Calma for my second child and noticed some distinct differences compared to more traditional nipples.
The design of the Calma really does require that babies actively suckle to get milk, which mimics how they feed from the breast. This was grand for us because it meant less confusion for my baby when switching from bottle back to breast. It's almost like they didn't notice much difference in their feeding effort, which helped tremendously with consistency.
However, one challenge we faced initially was getting our baby to accept the nipple. It took some patience and several attempts before she got the hang of it. I think it’s important for parents considering Calma to be ready for a possible adaptation period and not get discouraged if their baby doesn’t take to it immediately.
Also, cleaning was straightforward enough since it can be fully disassembled - a huge plus in ensuring all parts are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized!
Overall, I agree that despite its higher price point, the benefits of reducing nipple confusion and supporting breastfeeding efforts make the Medela Calma a valuable choice for those who can invest in it.
