Breastfeeding Babies and Growth Spurts



Posted: Monday, November 10, 2008

by
Breastfeeding Magazine

If your breastfeeding baby is suddenly nursing all the time, it is probably not a decrease in your milk supply, but instead just a normal growth spurt.

Most babies experience a growth spurt a few days after birth, one to three weeks, six to eight weeks, three months, six months and between seven and nine months. However, each child is different and there is no rule to when a child will go through a growth spurt. They can occur at any time!

When a baby grows, he or she may be fussier than usual. Your little one may wake up more times during the night to nurse than usual. He will also probably be nursing more during the day as well. He's is getting what he needs...don't worry.

Babies hunger increases during a spurt. Chances are you are producing enough milk for him and by breastfeeding more often, you are telling your body to produce more breast milk!

As long as your baby is gaining enough weight, has five to six very wet diapers a day and is having regular stools, chances are good that your little is getting enough to eat. However, if your child does not seem to be gaining weight or keeps a dry diaper for unusually long periods of time, make a visit to your baby's doctor for reassurance.

Growth spurts in babies usually last only 24 to 48 hours. However, they can sometimes take as long as a week. Just keep breastfeeding your baby on demand and things will soon return to normal again.

Sheri Lynn is an editor for "Breastfeeding Magazine" a new online source for breastfeeding support and encouragement. For more information, visit http://www.breastfeeding-magazine.com
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