Here are answers to some common questions about breastfeeding:
Your baby needs to breastfeed frequently for good weight gain. The more your baby eats, the more milk your body makes. Your milk supply will adjust to your baby’s growing appetite. As your baby grows, continue to watch for their feeding cues and feed on demand.
In the first 4 weeks, many babies are fussy during the day or night and may want many small feedings close together. This is called cluster feeding and is very normal. Cluster feeding prepares your baby to sleep longer at night.
Your baby may want to eat more often now that they are a couple weeks old. This is usually a time when they are growing faster.
Your baby should be:
If you are concerned about your baby’s weight gain, call WIC or your health care provider and ask about bringing your baby in for a weight check.
There is no set time for feedings. Your baby will let you know when they are finished feeding. They may turn their head away or fall asleep at the breast. Watch their hands! Babies that are full have relaxed bodies and hands. If you are worried your baby is not getting enough milk, talk with WIC or your healthcare provider.
A newborn’s tummy is very small. In the first few days and weeks, your baby can only take in a small amount of milk. This means they will need to eat frequently. As your baby grows, feedings can be longer or shorter depending on their needs. If you are exclusively pumping or feeding your baby a bottle of pumped milk, they will typically take 2-4 ounces per feeding. No matter how your baby is getting their breast milk, whether at the breast or in a bottle, follow your baby’s hunger and fullness cues.
Breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of a baby’s life. After six months, gradually introduce your baby to other foods while continuing to breastfeed for up to two years or longer. The length of time you breastfeed will depend on you and your baby’s unique needs.
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Breastfeeding may be getting easier. You and your baby are learning together! Breast milk is still all your baby needs to grow healthy and strong.
The amount of wet and poopy diapers your baby has might change as they grow. They may only have a poopy diaper once a day or every few days. Your baby should still show signs of good growth during their doctor and WIC appointments if they are eating enough.
Your baby may start sleeping more at night, however, some babies don’t sleep through the night until they are 4 months of age or older.
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Side-Lying Hold
This hold is useful when:
Cross-Cradle Hold
This hold is useful when:
Clutch or “Football” Hold
This hold is useful when:
Cradle Hold
This hold is useful when:
Laid-Back Hold
This hold is useful when:
