What Is SNS Feeding? A Guide to the Supplemental Nursing System

Key Takeaways

• An SNS (Supplemental Nursing System) allows babies to receive extra breast milk or formula at the breast through a thin tube.
• It may help support breastfeeding if supply is low, latching is difficult, or supplementation is needed.
• Using an SNS can strengthen bonding, encourage breast milk production, and provide flexibility for families.
• Like any tool, SNS feeding has pros and cons, and success often improves with practice and support.

What Is a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS)?

A Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) is a feeding device that helps deliver extra milk—whether pumped breast milk or infant formula—while your baby nurses at the breast. It typically includes:

• A small container or bottle for holding breast milk or formula.
• Thin, flexible tubes that attach to your breast and deliver breast milk alongside your natural flow.
• Tape or positioning aids to keep the tube in place.

This setup allows your baby to latch and suckle at the breast while receiving additional nourishment at the same time.

How Does the SNS Feeding Method Work?

When using an SNS, the container holding breast milk or formula is filled and placed slightly above breast level. The thin tube is taped or positioned along your nipple. As your baby latches and sucks, breast milk flows from both your breast and the SNS tube.

This dual feeding allows your baby to:

• Get immediate nourishment without frustration.
• Continue stimulating your breast, which may help increase supply.
• Stay at the breast longer, reinforcing the breastfeeding bond.

Related Reading:

• Can You Mix Breast Milk and Formula?

Who Can Benefit from a Supplemental Nursing System?

An SNS may be helpful if:

• You’re experiencing low breast milk supply but want to continue breastfeeding.
• Your baby has difficulty transferring breast milk or needs extra supplementation.
• You’ve adopted a baby and want to provide the bonding experience of breastfeeding.
• You’re relactating or inducing lactation after a pause.
• You want to supplement with formula while keeping your baby at the breast.

What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Using an SNS?

Benefits of SNS Feeding May Include

• Supports bonding: Keeps baby at the breast for skin-to-skin closeness.
• Encourages breast milk supply: Ongoing suckling stimulates breast milk production.
• Flexibility: Works with both pumped breast milk and infant formula.
• Bridges gaps: Helps during transitions like low supply or supplementation needs.

Challenges to Consider

• Learning curve: It can take practice to tape or hold tubes in place securely.
• Extra cleaning: The system requires careful washing and sanitization after each use.
• Pace control: Flow rate must be adjusted to prevent overfeeding.
• Portability: More setup than direct breastfeeding alone.

Tips for Successful SNS Breastfeeding

• Practice with the device before your baby’s feeding time.
• Work with a lactation consultant to get the right setup.
• Position yourself comfortably to avoid juggling.
• Start with small amounts of breast milk or formula and adjust as needed.
• Stay patient—both you and your baby may need time to adapt.

Support Your Breastfeeding Journey with Enfamil Family Beginnings^®

Every breastfeeding journey is unique. Whether you’re supplementing with pumped milk, formula, or both, Enfamil is here to support you.

Join Enfamil Family Beginnings^® for:

• Expert guidance and resources.
• Rewards and savings on Enfamil Baby Formula.
• Tips to help you navigate feeding transitions confidently.

Join Enfamil Family Beginnings today to receive personalized support for you and your baby.