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Infant feeding

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

4 day old baby gone from 40 min to 10 min feeds - is this normal?

2 replies

Fleecy · 15/04/2008 20:58

For the first couple of days DS fed for about 40 mins every 1.5/2 hrs day and night.

But these last two days he's gone down to feeding for just 10/15 mins every 2/3 hours. I'm not complaining - more sleep for me plus I've got cracked nipples from a poor latch at first so it's nice to have a break - but I'm worried he's not taking enough.

My milk has come in today and I can hear him really gulping it down when he feeds so it's possible he's just a quick feeder. But it seemed a bit odd he'd speed up just like that!

I know it's early days but I didn't breastfeed successfully last time - started out breastfeeding DD and after 5 days was told she wasn't taking enough and was de-hydrated so want to make sure all okay this time.

OP posts:
susiecutiebananas · 15/04/2008 21:07

Firstly, congratulations on your new DS!
It most likely that he is being more efficient, coupled with your milk coming in, he is actually now getting all he needs, in a shorter time
Is he having at least 6 wet nappies a day? Is he havind dirty nappies too? Other than that, the best way you will know is when he is weighed this week. If he's gained, he'll be getting plenty. However, they are allowed to lose up to 10% of their birth weight in the first 7 days. So don't be surprised if he has lost a little. your MW will advise of course

Babies are usually, if healthy, pretty good at getting milk to flow. They are often much more efficient than a br pump for example. Its usual for you to express and get very little out, and panic and think your baby is not getting much. Truth is, they get at it much better than a pump does. With the stimulation & the hormones produced when they are actually feeding at the breast, it so much better all round.

I'm fairly sure, if your DS was hungry, you would know about it

Just ensure, his latch is good, he is sucking well, using his jaw muscles- you often see their ears wiggling, and drawing steadily on the breast. also that you can hear swallowing ( which you say you can ). I really don't think you have anything to worry about. However, if you are still concerned, do mention it to your MW when she comes to see you. HTH

notnowbernard · 15/04/2008 21:13

Am not an expert on bf, only have my own experience to go on (2 dds)

But, I would think maybe now your milk has come in he is more satisfied?

Both mine were quick, efficient but frequent feeders... never more than 10-15 mins on only one breast... both gained weight well and steadily

There are loads of experts on here, luckily!

Congratulations

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