Talk

Flip

Get advice and support with infant feeding from other users here.

Infant feeding

5 week baby weight gain

3 replies

Teddysmum · 08/09/2006 11:31

Hi there - I have been advised by my health visitor that my new 5 week old baby is gaining wight too quickly and that I need to cut out a feed.

He was 8lb 4oz at birth (50th centile)
At 2 weeks 9lb 2oz (52nd centile)
At 3.5 weeks 10lb 10oz (90th centile)
At 4.5 weeks (yesterday) 11lb 8oz (91st centile)

I was feeding him around 25-30oz during a 24 hour period at 07:00, 10:00, 13:30, 16:30, 18:30, 22:30 and then the early hours (whenever he wakes). The feeds would range from 3-6 oz dependent on how hungry he is I suppose.

I have been told to change to a 4 hour routine, and plan on 07:00, 10:30, 14:30, 18:30 plus the dream feed and whenever he wakes in the night (usually between 04:00 and 05:30).

By the way, he sleeps for England, and seems to have awake days, followed by sleepy days, followed by awake day, etc... but ususally in the night, unless he's got trapped wind, he sleeps well (albeit accompanied by moans, groans, snorts, strains, whinges etc..)

He's on Aptamil 1, on Dr Brown's number 2 teats.

Do you think the HV was right and that this is a good routine for him? Will he start waking earlier in the night for food as he's not getting enough calories in the day? Has anyone ever been told to feed their baby less?

Thanks for your help, guidance and advice!

OP posts:

Report

loopybear · 08/09/2006 12:35

Hi,
I FF DD on demand I make up 5oz bottles. Yesterday she took the full bottle each time and a 7oz one in the night (she sleeps 6 hours before waking for a feed) My HV suggested feeding on demand. My Mum suggested offering her sterlised water at room temperature to see if she was just thirsty. SOmetimes she does just want the water. It's just my experience I'm no expert

Report

loopybear · 08/09/2006 12:46

Meant to add that somedays DD only takes 3oz from each bottle! Brains turning to spaghetti already!!!

Report

Teddysmum · 08/09/2006 12:58

Thanks Loopybear. I find it all confusing. To be told to essentially "put your baby on a diet" seems a bit mad to me! I didn't think they could overeat? Did your HV advise that you demand feed for the same reason?