As a new mom, even though we have the ability to breastfeed our babies, it’s natural to have a lot of questions about it. In the first few months, you’ve probably been told to nurse the baby on demand. But what does this actually mean?
It’s a common question and we have some answers for you. Here’s everything you need to know about breastfeeding your baby on demand.
What is breastfeeding on demand?
Breastfeeding”By order” is exactly what it sounds like – breastfeed your baby whenever he shows signs of hunger. It is sometimes also called “cue feeding” or “responsive feeding”. The idea is simple – breastfeed your baby whenever he starts and for as long as he wants. There are no time limits or imposed schedules. Breastfeed according to the baby’s needs and not according to a schedule.
How often does my newborn need to breastfeed?
In the first days to weeks of life, babies will want it I am breastfeeding every 1 to 3 hours. This averages out to about 8 to 12 feeding sessions every 24 hours, with each session lasting between 5 and 20 minutes. Newborn babies have very small stomachs. This means they can only drink a few milliliters at a time. As your baby grows, so will the size of his stomach. And soon they will be able to drink more and go longer between feedings.
Demand feeding is actually very beneficial for milk supply. Breast milk production is based on supply and demand. The more your baby drinks, the more milk your breasts will produce to meet these demands. Following your baby’s desire to eat allows your body to produce enough milk for it.
The time between feeds is calculated from when your baby starts to nurse – not when they stop. At first it may seem like all you do is breastfeed your baby. The newborn phase of breastfeeding is sometimes the hardest part to go through. Just know that this feeling will pass and soon your baby will naturally stretch out the time between each feed.
If you’re looking for help getting your milk flowing, try Pink Stork’s Total Lactation Capsules and Breastfeeding Sweets. Both are packed with natural botanicals that support breast milk production.
What are the benefits of breastfeeding on demand?
There are several benefits to breastfeeding on demand. The first benefit we have already mentioned above – breastfeeding on demand can have a positive effect on milk supply. Your body will produce milk in response to how much your baby eats. If you feed your baby based on his needs and not the clock, your milk will follow.
Another benefit of on-demand breastfeeding is that it ensures your baby gets enough nutrients and calories when he needs them. Babies are just like us when it comes to hunger and calorie intake. Some meals we eat a lot because we are very hungry and then some meals we eat less. When you breastfeed on demand, you allow the baby to drink as much or as little as he needs depending on his hunger level.
During the first year of life, your baby will go through a lot growth spurts and their hunger can seem insatiable. Sometimes this can mean they want to eat every hour as they get older. This is cluster power. Breastfeeding on demand allows your baby to get the extra calories he needs during a rapid growth spurt. If you only allow your baby to eat when the clock says it’s time, you’re probably setting yourself up for a fussy and very hungry baby.
Finally, breastfeeding on demand gives you and your baby a chance to bond. Babies crave comfort from their caregivers, and breastfeeding your baby creates skin-to-skin moments that strengthen the bond between you. On-demand feeding meets both your baby’s physical and emotional needs.
How long should I breastfeed on demand?
There really isn’t a clear cut answer for how long you should breastfeed on demand. You should try to aim for at least the first 6 months of your baby’s life. It is around this time that babies start eating solid foods and families may want to have the baby with them during meals. This may create the need for a short schedule.
By 3 or 4 months of age, your baby will settle into a more predictable feeding schedule on his own. When adding solids a few months later, try to work around your baby’s current schedule. This will reduce the chances of sleep disturbances and milk supply problems. Still offer breast milk at every meal. If they seem less interested when solid foods are on the menu, offer breast milk first before other foods.
Where to get help with breastfeeding…
If you are having trouble breastfeeding, know that you are not alone. Breastfeeding may be the natural way to feed your baby, but it doesn’t come naturally to all families. Problems can arise at any point during your breastfeeding journey and there are great organizations and people you can turn to for help.
Talk to your healthcare provider first. They can put you in touch with a local lactation consultant.
You can also find great advice and help from La Leche League International and HealthyChildren.org.
