Despite wanting to breastfeed exclusively, many women find they have been advised to introduce formula by the end of the first week of their baby’s life. How much of this formula use is actually necessary? As Melbourne neonatal paediatrician Dr Danielle Freeman explains in conversation with Dr Pamela Douglas, ‘normal is a very diverse condition’ at the beginning of life! Dani offers important insight into what we can expect to see in otherwise well newborns, and how unnecessary formula supplementation might be avoided. Pam is a GP-researcher and founder of the evidence-based Neuroprotective Developmental Care (or 'Possums') programs www.possumsonline.com. She is also author of The discontented little baby book: all you need to know about feeds, sleep, and crying.