Constantly feeding? Here are 5 tips for keeping your baby fuller longer.
You begin to worry you are not making enough milk, or you start asking yourself (as my grandma used to say) “is my milk rich enough”? Or maybe you are thinking you could just be raising a linebacker that requires to be fed every hour to be properly nourished. Well, here are some practical tips to help keep your baby fuller longer and to give you comfort knowing that your baby has a full tummy!
5 Tips for keeping your baby fuller longer
–Do empty one breast at a feeding. If you are switching breasts too early, your baby may only be getting the “fore milk” and not the “hind milk”. The hind milk is higher in fat and calories and this is what keeps your baby satisfied and full. Not only that, but it is also essential for proper growth and development. A typical feeding lasts anywhere from 5 minutes to 30 minutes on each breast. Just watch your baby for signs that he or she is full without focusing on the clock.
–Keep your baby focused on eating. Some babies like to snack and only get just enough in their tummies to satisfy them for a short time. You may have to do things to keep your baby awake if they are falling asleep during a feeding. You can do this by rubbing their back, feet, or cheek. If your baby is older, they may be distracted and want to play. Learn more about keeping them on task. The Distractible Baby
–Breastfeed in skin to skin (or Kangaroo Care) whenever possible especially during the early weeks. This means laying your baby against your bare chest while he or she is wearing just their diaper. You may do this as long as you and your baby enjoy it and will continue to benefit from it. You must get the full “skin to skin contact” for this to be fully effective. Your baby’s natural instincts will kick in and he or she will more likely breast feed longer than if they are fully clothed or bundled. There are many other benefits to Kangaroo Care as well. Learn about the benefits of Kangaroo Care.
–Massage your breasts while your baby is nursing. This is sometimes called breast compression. This will aid in your milk flow and may keep your baby interested and keep your baby stimulated to stay awake to finish the feeding. See how to do breast compression.
—Troubleshoot basic tools and techniques. If positioning and latch are not correct, then your baby is not going to be taking in as much milk. Use of nipple shields can also interfere with milk transfer and can cause your baby to nurse more frequently because of smaller quantities being taken in. You may need to consult a Lactation Consultant to assess for correct positioning and latch, and especially if you were given a nipple shield in the hospital.
Follow these practical tips for keeping your baby fuller longer and you will see a difference in your baby’s sleeping and feeding patterns. Now, Mama, you can rest!
