7 week old sleeping more than usual

[Ebonythoughts]

Hi all,

FTM here.

I’m worried about my baby girl but getting conflicting information so not sure if I’m over reacting. She’s 7 weeks old now and for the past two nights and days she has been sleeping a lot more (4 hour blocks at night and 2 hours during the day). This wouldn’t worry me but she’s also not feeding as much as usual. I’ve been combi feeding but she’s refused the bottle entirely and I’ve been having to solely breastfeed when she gives hunger queues. I don’t mind but she’s been drinking 5oz and I know when it’s solely breast she won’t get that because my supply has always been quite low, to the point I can’t express more than 1oz so I can express enough for anyone else to feed her. It’s exhausting but more than anything I’m just worried she’s super tired and not getting as much milk as usual. She is producing wet nappies but she hasn’t pooed in over 24 hours. My mum said she’s going through a growth spurt and this is normal but my sister said if there’s a drastic change in her feeding then speak to the health visitor.

Any advice from those who may have experienced this or similar before? Am I overreacting?

@Ebonythoughts it's never daft to go to your HV with a question like this. Rather than worrying and questioning, just seek some guidance. They will soon reassure you (or let you know if it sounds at all concerning). That's what they are there for. 💕

Expressing is often not a good indication of how much milk you're producing. I have friends who only breastfeed and can't express anything! Their babies are growing fine so there must be plenty milk coming out for baby.

Your baby's sleep sounds normal to me and they do go through these phases of growth spurts. Usually much fussiest when awake and sleeping longer. How is she behaving when awake?

whats she like when she’s awake? Is she alert or a bit sleepy still? What do her nappies smell like ? Any slightly fishy smell? I remember when my DD was tiny she was uncharacteristically sleepy and it turned out she had a UTI. No fever, no signs other than sleepier than usual. If you are at all concerned I’d speak to your HV or other HCP. Odds on, it’s completely normal but rather than worry, best to get your mind put at rest I’d say.