Every child is unique, including how much and when they want to feed.
Understanding what to anticipate about breastfeeding during the initial days, weeks, and months of your newborn's life can greatly assist you in this journey.
In the Early Days
Newborns have tiny tummies, meaning they don't require much milk per feeding to feel satisfied. As a new mom, you may find that your little one wants to eat every 1 to 3 hours. This frequent feeding is beneficial as it boosts your milk production and provides your baby with the practice needed for sucking and swallowing.
You'll probably notice the sounds of your baby drawing milk and swallowing. Most newborns should ideally be exclusively breastfed, refraining from infant formula during the initial days. If you're worried about fulfilling your baby's dietary needs, don't hesitate to consult a lactation consultant, your baby's nurse, or a pediatrician. They're there to support you and address any concerns regarding breastfeeding.
Just a little FYI:
Some newborns may be a bit sleepy and less interested in feeding.
During the beginning phase, your baby will need to feed every 2 to 4 hours to receive adequate nutrition for growth. Consequently, you might have to awaken your baby for feeding times. Gentle pats, stroking, undressing, or a diaper change can be effective wake-up strategies. If you're worried about your baby's eating or sleeping patterns, always reach out to their healthcare provider.
Weeks and Months Down the Line
As your baby grows, their tummy capacity increases, allowing them to consume more breast milk per feed. Over the initial weeks and months, the gap between feedings may begin to extend. Most babies who are exclusively breastfed tend to feed approximately every 2 to 4 hours. You may notice periods where your baby feeds nearly every hour, also known as cluster feeding, or they may take a longer snooze for about 4 to 5 hours.
Feeding frequency might vary depending on the time of day. Some feeds might be longer, others shorter, but that's perfectly fine. Trust that your baby will take what they need per feed and stop when they're full. Post-feeding, they should appear content and sleepy, signaling they've had their fill.
On average, your baby will breastfeed around 8 to 12 times in 24 hours.
6 to 12 Months Transition
As your baby matures and starts eating more solid foods, their breastfeeding duration and frequency will likely change. It's essential to stay responsive to your baby's hunger cues and breastfeed when they show signs of hunger, often referred to as breastfeeding on demand.
If your baby's interest in breastfeeding wanes after introducing solid foods, you can try breastfeeding before providing other foods. Despite the inclusion of solid foods in their diet, remember that your breast milk remains their most crucial nutritional source.
12 to 24 Months Stage
The frequency of breastfeeding for toddlers can greatly vary. Some may prefer breastfeeding only before bedtime or in the morning, while others might still rely on breast milk as a significant part of their daily diet. As always, stay attentive to your child's hunger cues to determine when they wish to breastfeed.
No matter where you are in your breastfeeding journey, remember that your love and care are just as vital for your baby's growth as your milk. As a new mom, it's okay to seek support, ask questions, and, most importantly, trust your instincts. You're doing great!
As a new mom, navigating your newborn's feeding schedule can be a journey filled with questions and wonders. Don't hesitate to share this blog post with other new moms who might find it helpful. We'd love to hear your thoughts, and if you have any stories about your experiences, do share them in the comments section. Your experiences could be the answer to another mom's question.
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