How often should I feed my baby?.
You should feed your baby "on demand", which is whenever he NEEDS to
nurse. It will probably be about every 2 to 3 hours for the first few weeks.
Breast milk is digested much faster than formula so he can't go as long between feedings
as a bottle baby. As your milk supply builds up and he learns to nurse more
efficiently, he will go longer between feedings.
When a baby cries, he has a need. It may be that he is hot, cold, wet, hungry or
just lonesome. If he can't be comforted any other way than nursing, then he
needs to nurse. You can't overfeed a breastfed baby. He will stop
when he has enough. (1)
How long should I nurse at each feeding?.
You should nurse at least 10 to 15 minutes on each breast OR until the breast
feels soft, and then you should switch to the other side. He should nurse until he
is either asleep or fully satisfied. It is best to let the baby nurse until he comes
off the breast by himself. At the next feeding, start with the side you stopped on.
It will usually feel heavier. You can also nurse about 30 minutes on only one
breast at each feeding. Babies get more of the high-fat creamy milk
("hindmilk") doing it that way and may gain more weight. (1)
Should I give water or formula to my baby?.
Breast milk has all the nutrients your breastfed baby needs. There is no
need for formula unless the baby isn't gaining weight. Remember, the more you nurse,
the more milk you will make. And if you fill the baby up with formula or water, he
will nurse less and you won't make as much milk. There is nothing better for your
baby than breast milk. Water is not necessary for a completely breastfed baby. (1)
How can I tell if my baby is getting enough breast milk?.
If your baby is nursing at least 10-12 times in 24 hours, and is content, alert,
and gaining about a pound a month, he is probably getting enough breast milk.
You can also tell by listening to him nurse. You should be able to hear him
swallowing. Your breasts should also feel softer and lighter at the end of each
feeding.
During the first few weeks, a baby should be having at least 6-8 soaking wet diapers and
at least 1 or 2 bowel movements in each 24 hour period. (Sometimes it is hard to
tell when disposable diapers are wet. Pull it apart and check inside to be sure.
Or, put a piece of paper towel in each clean diaper where the baby will urinate.
If the paper is wet, you have a wet diaper.)
Sometimes, (but very, very rarely) a mother just doesn't make enough milk for her baby.
The baby must be watched carefully for signs of dehydration. The following is very
important: Your baby may be getting dehydrated if he acts
listless and sick, has dark yellow urine, his mouth and lips are dry, or if the soft spot
on the top of his head sinks in. These symptoms are serious. Take your
baby to a doctor immediately if he has any of these symptoms. (1)
Can I use a pacifier?.
There are times when a pacifier may be used, but you shouldn't rely on it all the
time. If your baby is given a pacifier every time he fusses, he may not nurse often
enough to keep up your milk supply, and he may not gain weight as he should. Your
milk supply will definitely be affected if you use a pacifier too often.
Remember, a pacifier can be useful at certain times, but it CAN affect your milk supply in
the early weeks. It is best not to get in the habit of using it all the time. (1)
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