Chapter 4. Overcoming Challenges in Breastfeeding
Newborns cry after feeding for various reasons. It is often due to stomach discomfort, gas, a wet diaper, or simply a need for comfort.
Crying is not always a sign of hunger. Observe your baby’s cues to determine if he is truly still hungry.
- Milk-producing hormones peak in the early morning hours, so they need more frequent nighttime feeds. Breastfeeding in the middle of the night during the first week postpartum significantly helps establish a strong milk supply. Supplementing with formula at night can likely reduce your milk supply. Therefore, prioritize rest during the day when you have support from other people.
- Often, when babies sleep and then fuss for milk at night, it is due to intestinal movement causing stomachaches and discomfort during growth spurts. Breastfeeding is very helpful as it comforts them by releasing cholecystokinin (CCK). If possible, delegate tasks to others and focus on frequent breastfeeding.
- When your baby is around 2 months old, your milk supply usually stabilizes, and he will start sleeping for longer stretches at night. At that point, you will also be able to get more sleep, so hang in there!
- Additionally, you may change the diaper before feeding, and burping is not always necessary. This will allow the baby to sleep longer at night.
- Babies like closing their eyes while suckling. You do not need to worry if the breastfeeding position is correct and effective.
- If your baby is not suckling, you may
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- gently tap his lower jaw to remind him to suckle, or
- gently massage your breast and create milk flow into your baby’s mouth. This will stimulate suction.
If this does not work, you may first distance him from your breast and try to wake him up through burping or changing diapers. Resume breastfeeding when there are signs that your baby is hungry.
- Have more skin-to-skin contact with your baby. Breastfeed according to his needs.
There is no need for a replacement feed; let your baby rest instead. You can try feeding him slightly earlier for the next session. If you wait until he is extremely hungry, he may feed too quickly and swallow excess air, which can lead to further vomiting.
If your baby's weight gain and bowel movements are normal, it is okay to stop feeding in this situation. When the weather is cold, some babies may resist being put down in a chilly bed. Try warming the bed with a hot water bottle first. Your baby is only one and a half months old, and you are his whole world and source of security. You are doing a great job!
If your baby's weight gain and bowel movements are normal, it is okay to stop feeding in this situation. When the weather is cold, some babies may resist being put down in a chilly bed. Try warming the bed with a hot water bottle first. Your baby is only one and a half months old, and you are his whole world and source of security. You are doing a great job!
You can try the laid-back position.