Since the arrival of the little one, certain challenges inevitably follow. Many mothers have expressed that feeding a newborn is particularly daunting. The frequency of feeding varies based on the baby’s age and appetite. Pediatricians can offer new mothers tips and guidance on breastfeeding.
First Week
In the initial days after birth, the baby might not show much appetite. However, as stated by Children’s Health Online, this situation changes quickly. Breastfed babies typically need to be fed 8 to 12 times a day. During this period, mothers might find themselves feeding the baby every 1.5 to 3 hours. The feeding schedule can fluctuate, so it’s essential to watch for any signs of hunger. The American Academy of Pediatrics mentions that behaviors like smacking lips, bringing hands to the mouth, and head movements are indicators that the baby is hungry.
First Month
After about a month, your baby will get closer to a more predictable feeding routine. According to Children’s Health Online, during this stage, mothers might find they have more free time because the number of feedings decreases from 8 to 12 times a day to 7 to 9 times, with intervals extending to 2 to 3 hours. If the baby is slightly hungry, she might stick out her tongue or bring her nose and mouth closer to the mother’s breast.
Feeding Issues
Healthy Children Network advises that even if your baby is sleeping soundly, you shouldn’t go more than 4 hours without feeding. If the baby seems more eager to drink than usual, the mother should assess her milk supply. A sudden change in the baby’s feeding pattern might be due to a growth spurt in the first month. Ensuring the baby is fed enough before she starts crying can prevent excessive distress.
Additional Notes
Several factors influence how often a baby should be fed and how frequently a mother should breastfeed. If you’re struggling with breastfeeding or milk supply, your doctor should be able to recommend a lactation consultant. Mothers with busy work schedules might feel stressed about fitting in 15-30 minutes for feeding. Using a breast pump to express milk in advance can easily alleviate this concern, giving you flexibility.
