Feeds suddenly much shorter - is he getting more efficient? Paranoid he's not eating enough...

[arthymum]

My ds had a tongue tie until he had it snipped at 14 weeks. Prior to this, every feed lasted at least 30 minutes, usually nearer to 45. He is now 19 weeks and in the last few days just doesn't seem to be very interested in feeding for long, especially in the mornings. He'll take 5-10 mins and then not really want more. I keep offering it to him and he'll suck a couple of times and then come off. I've tried eliminating distractions but it doesn't make much difference. My OH thinks he is just feeding quicker than before and that the fact he usually has a good spew after these feeds means he is getting what he needs. The last 2-3 feeds of the day (and the one in the middle of the night!) he is much more interested in feeding for longer. Am I being paranoid and should I stop shoving my boob in his face constantly?!

Bumping for you.

Don't know the answer but am interested in any replies as i am in a similar situation with my dd.

the tongue tie snip should certainly have reduced the time he needs to feed; do your boobs feel empty after the shorter feeds?

Not paranoid, just needing to get used to the new, more efficient baby!

That's the thing, they don't always feel empty - I expressed after the first crap feed this morning and got over 4 oz/125ml.

However, he has just had his bedtime feed which measured in at a whopping 1hr 10 mins so maybe he sometimes likes to snack, sometimes likes to stuff his face (inherited from me...)

Have his nappies stayed the same, ie not become less wet? It is not reliable to go by how full or empty you feel or how much you can express, as your boobs are now at 19 weeks very good at making milk on demand and they are never empty.

At night feeds tend to be longer because comfort and sleep come into it too. He loves to snuggle into you in the night, they all do. In the day there is lots to do for a big boy like him.

And yes, it is normal to alternate snacks and meals.

Unless you have concerns about his nappies or weight i would not worry.

I just note he had his tie snipped only a month ago. That will have made him much more efficient which will in turn have upped your milk supply a lot, so that is also why they may seem fuller