BF a newborn - Do you use a log or other written record?

[primalero]

I have a one week old baby and am BF for the first time. I am keeping track of feeds and nappies using a notebook. Does anyone else do this and what do you use?

Gosh, I wouldn't have dreamt of doing that but if it makes you happy do it.

I second the iPhone App! Still using it and Ds3 is 12 weeks old on Tuesday. I was never going to refuse DS a feed but the App reminded me which side I'd fed on, and for how long which meant one less thing to worry about! I look back at the log on my phone now and we've gone from over 20 feeds a day in the early (painful) days to about 11/12 without me enforcing any routine.

I did a spreadsheet with dd - it feels like you are more 'in control' doesn't it? However, I think it made me worry more - which side did I feed from last? Ooh that feed was half hour ago not one or two?

With ds 1 (and now ds2) I feed when they squawk or nuzzle or just whenever, sometimes a long feed sometimes a quick one - sometimes a super-snack. Any side. Babies thriving. Ds2 is 15weeks now and have utterly no clue how many times he feeds at night - he is next to me and feeds and sleeps, feeds and sleeps. In the morning, if I feel ok then it was a good night!! If you want, you can spot patterns after a month or two or three or four - but there is no need.

Don;t forget bfing is not just about milk, is comfort, and getting to sleep and reassurance and pain relief and so much more. Just offer your magic boobs whenever and don't worry about it. Things change very quickly in the early days/weeks/months.

Congratulations on your baby!

nope. rubbish at any of that. and i like my iphone very much
both my girls were utterly different in the way they fed, and equally i was different in the way i fed (second time i was generally shouting "put that DOWN i am feeding the BABY [GROWL])...but they both learned to love the boob
what adair says - do what makes you happy but don't forget that your boobs are not just about milk - comfort, bonding, reassurance....it's all important. don't over analyse it. enjoy it.
and congratulations!