What to expect from cluster feeding

[Namechangemum100]

Ds is due in 3 weeks and I am very much hoping to be able to successfully breast feed him. Unfortunately I failed with DD, due to flat nipples, but have much more info at hand this time round so am trying to be optimistic.

Reading about breastfeeding online, cluster feeding seems to be a common theme, where mum's are seemingly awake the entire night feeding baby.

Please could those with experience of breast feeding please give me a realistic account of what I should expect from cluster feeding so that I can try to prepare myself mentally?

I'm not looking for horror stories, but just genuine advice on what happens, what helps, how long does it last over all, when do things improve etc?

I am hoping that by being informed before going into it this will deter me from giving up.

Thanks!

[katmarie]

Good luck op, it's hard at times but so very very rewarding. I have my ds asleep snuggled up on my shoulder right now after a really good feed and it's such a good feeling.

[Namechangemum100]

So having met with a lactation consultant we now have a really good plan in place which is making me feel optimistic.

She has advise me to hand express colostrum and to start storing in the freezer Incase of any initial latch issues.

I have started today and had some success. Unfortunately it was only from one breast and wasn't enough to actually collect, however there was definitely something there. Here's hoping that's a good sign!

[Bobbiepin]

If it makes you feel any better I didn't get a drop of colostrum before DD was born but could hand express a ml into a syringe in 5 minutes once she was born. Those hormones will help!

[MouldyVoldy]

My now 3 month old would cluster feed literally all day. It was hard at first, but once I realised there was nothing I could do, I just embraced it. Took my oldest to school, came home and fed the baby. Then went and got oldest from school. Then fed the baby while I ate dinner. Then all the rest of the evening. But she sleeps ok at night. But now she's 3 months, she has a better routine. Still feeds quite often, but she does actually give me a break now! I didn't do too well bf my first, so was determined this time around and I think I've been successful. Good luck! You can do it. You just gotta power through.