The Nursing Baby - Q&A

Heather Doyle asks:

I am currently nursing my seven week old daughter and I am finding little free time for my two and half year old son. She seems to want to nurse around the clock. My doctor has told me that she needs to be on a schedule of feeding every two hours. I am concerned about this, because she demands nursing so frequently. I have also been told to get her a pacifier, because she needs to suck rather than nurse. I would love to continue breastfeeding exclusively, but I need to have some kind of a break from the demands of her feeding. I am also concerned about a lack of leaking, is this a sign of not enough milk?

Dear Heather,

It is entirely normal for newborns to nurse seemingly all the time. In fact, the AAP recommends at least 8-12 times per 24 hours. Now some babies will nurse in 10 minutes, others will stay latched on for an hour. My own baby nursed every hour and 1/2 during the daytime till he was 10 months. It was difficult till he hit about 4 months, and went from 1/2 hour nursing to 3-10 minute ones.

You may find that nursing a newborn can be easier if you learn to nurse in a sling. Nursing in a sling allows you to continue nursing while still being active. Some mothers have also found that it can cut down on sibling jealousies, as the baby isn't quite as obviously taking up mother's time.

It is a popular concept in western society to use pacifiers to satisfy babies' sucking needs. But pacifiers have been shown to lead to earlier weaning, and in the daycare setting, to cause increased illness.

If you are feeling touched out by your baby, try going for a stroll or a car ride for a while. Babies generally don't want to nurse then!

Before you know it, your baby will be about 4 months old and will probably cut back on time spent nursing. Babies of this age are much more curious about the world!

Leaking is not a sign of milk supply. I personally didn't leak after the first two weeks of nursing, despite nursing a baby exclusively with no solids till 8 1/2 months. Some women do, some don't. The feeling of fullness or the frequency of your baby's feeds are also not related to milk supply. See our article on low milk supply for more information.

Hope some of this information proves helpful:)

Paula

These tips are not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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