Every baby is different when it comes to their nursing habits. There are some babies who must be breastfed in a close intervals — these babies usually take every hour to feed and take a lot longer to finish feeding. On the other hand, there are babies who have a wide range of feeding patterns, normal or abnormal. Mothers may even notice that different siblings may also have varying styles of nursing. Since no babies are actually alike, it is advisable for us to be observant of their feeding routines. Here are some things a mother should expect in the early weeks of breastfeeding her newborn.
Breastfeeding Your Newborn
Many breastfeeding mothers aren’t really prepared for such an experience, especially when it’s their firstborn. There are times when we think that we’ll run out of milk if the baby feeds too often — this is especially true when mothers find themselves breastfeeding all day. During the early weeks, it is completely normal if you have to breastfeed your baby 10-12 times a day. Basically, your baby will wake up every two to three hours only to breastfeed but don’t be surprised if your baby wants to feed again only after an hour. It’s only normal for babies to have a close interval of feeding, especially in the evening.
Feeding should be timed per session as you need to observe your baby’s feeding pattern and there will be times when the baby will wake you up because he or she wants to be fed. Babies shouldn’t be allowed to sleep more than five hours without being fed until they are a month old. And during the daytime, if your baby hasn’t fed for about 3-4 hours, you must gently encourage him or her to feed. Although you might feel like all you do is breastfeed, feeding your baby more often in the first weeks is how your baby meets their nutritional needs.
Also read about How to establish and maintain milk supply when the baby is not feeding
After giving birth, there would have been changes in your hormones. You will experience extreme mood swings or even postpartum depression, also known as baby blues. When your milk finally comes in, you will encounter changes in your breasts; aside from getting bigger, your nipples are more likely to be sore. You may find it uneasy feeding your baby with sore nipples, so you might want to get yourself some breast-soothing creams.
During breastfeeding, you’re more likely to get tired and hungry as your baby feeds from you. You will need a lot of water to keep hydrated because it’s important to have enough fluids in your body for milk production, so make sure you always have a glass of water beside you. You will also need to get enough rest — this is good for milk production. Since your baby will be awake from time to time, the best thing to do is to rest when your baby is sleeping. In addition, you will also gain more weight as you need to eat plenty of food — make sure to include good fats in your diet.
Here’s an overview of what happens in the first weeks of nursing:
Day 1-3: Expect your nursing to occur more often as your baby’s feeding pattern isn’t really established yet — no need for scheduling. Expect to change diapers once or twice each day.
Day 3-5: Your milk production is most likely to increase — it may happen gradually or it can happen very suddenly. In order to minimize engorgement, nurse more frequently and avoid skipping feedings. You must also ensure a comfortable position for you and the baby. Wait for your baby to finish the first breast before offering the other one. If you feel uncomfortable with your breast’s engorgement, you may use a cold compress between the feedings. Also, keep in mind your baby’s stool will be yellow and he or she must have at least 3-4 stools daily.
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Day 5-7: Your baby has to be nursed more frequently, and must be fed every two-hour interval, 10 times each day. You might need to change his or her diaper 5-6 times a day.
Day 7-10: Growth spurts may occur, so the baby needs to be nursed more often than before. At this point in time, the baby’s stomach will grow rapidly each day and as your baby feeds from you, you’ll feel very tired and hungry.
Week 2-3: Your baby will gain weight — an average breastfed baby will gain 6 ounces every week. If your baby didn’t gain weight in the past weeks, consult your health provider.
When should you seek help?
- If the baby sleeps on his or her feeding time more often
- If he or she seldom demands to be fed
- The baby needs to be nursed more than twelve times a day
- If the baby has no wet or dirty diapers
- The baby has dark-colored urine after the 3rd day
- If you have symptoms of mastitis
- If your baby isn’t gaining weight
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Frequently asked questions:
How much weight gain should I expect for my baby?
It’s only normal for babies to lose 7% of their birth weight in a few days. But after weeks of breastfeeding, expect your baby to gain 6 ounces each week. If your baby doesn’t seem to meet the ideal weight gain, consult your doctor.
What should I expect on my baby’s diapers?
During the early days, you’ll be changing your baby’s diaper once or twice a day. On the fourth day, your baby’s stool will be yellow, and you’ll be changing diapers 5-6 times. And up to the following days, as your baby feeds more, expect more diaper changing. If your baby’s urine seems to be dark-colored, you must visit your doctor.
How often should I nurse?
As for the early weeks, frequent nursing is important for your milk production. An average newborn usually needs 8-12 times of nursing every day.
Is my milk enough for my baby?
Absolutely yes! Your body will produce enough milk for your baby whether he or she is nursing a lot or not.
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