Breastfeeding – FAQs answered by Experts

Breastfeeding – FAQs answered by Experts

Breastfeeding – FAQs answered by Experts

Breastfeeding is a unique experience with every child. New mothers often have questions around breastfeeding, our experts answered some of the common questions most mothers have.

How often should I breastfeed my baby?

Every mother and baby is different. Slowly you will figure out a feeding pattern that’s working for you and your baby. Mainly your baby should feed at least 8 times every 24 hours during the first few weeks.
Do not overthink about feeding your baby, you can’t overfeed a breastfed baby and it will not spoil your baby or demanding if you feed them whenever they’re hungry or need comfort.

 

How long each breastfeeding session should last ?

New mothers not to watch the clock but rather to follow your baby’s cues. The length of feedings can depend on many factors, and the rule of thumb is to allow your baby to nurse as long as they’re actively sucking and swallowing. After a feeding, your baby should seem satisfied and happy, they’ll have open or relaxed hands, they may even come off the breast themselves.

 


Will I have enough milk for my baby?

Starting breastfeeding immediately after delivery leads to increased production of breast milk. In the first week, the volume of breast milk will rapidly increase to satisfy the baby's hunger.

In general, a newborn will eat 1 teaspoon of milk in the first 24 hours, and will double milk intake every day after. your body will produce enough milk as long as the child is being breastfed. As breastfeeding decreases, so does the amount of breast milk that is being produced because the body will naturally start to wean milk production. That usually happens when the child is being introduced to complementary foods, like puréed fruits and vegetables.

Moms can continue to give breast milk along with complementary foods as the child gets older.

How do i know my baby is getting enough breastmilk ?

 

Your baby’s pee and poop will tell you if your baby’s getting enough breastmilk.

  •  Pee – If your baby’s having 6 or more wet diapers per day, with clear or very pale pee, that means she is getting enough milk. Darker pee and Fewer wet diapers may mean your baby's not getting enough to drink.
  • Poop – If your baby’s having 4 or more yellow seedy poops per day, mostly after feeding, your baby’s getting enough milk.
  • Common signs – some of the common signs that your baby’s getting enough milk if baby is satisfied after each feeding session, sleeps well and is gaining weight.

Does my baby wake up at night because I’m breastfeeding?

 

 

The short answer? No. Your baby may wake up because they’re hungry, lonely, or uncomfortable (e.g., hot or cold).

Sometime babies won’t be soothed by rocking or other gentle measures, so you might want to nurse at night to help them fall asleep. When or if you choose to night wean is entirely your decision.

If it works for you and your family, nighttime feedings can be beneficial for your child’s weight gain and your breast milk supply because prolactin, the milk production hormone, peaks in the middle of the night.