|
Question
I have a question regarding feeding in general really. I have been having a
lot of trouble with my milk production this past month. My baby used to
sleep through the night and has now been getting up about 4 times a night
to nurse. I had started to supplement with formula which he took pretty
well. Now, this past week, and especially the past three days, he barely
nurses at all during the day and also will not take a supplemental bottle,
but he continues to nurse during the night. At his 4-month visit last week,
the doctor didn't seem too concerned and when he did not feed hardly at all
the past two days. But how can I not worry? I've thought of not feeding him
during one of his feedings at night, but it seems so cruel. Do you think
that would get him feeding during the day again? I am so confused by
this.
|
|
I can see why you might be
concerned about what is going on with your son's nursing habits. I suspect
that a lot of what is going on can be attributed to
"four-month-itis."
At four months, babies
typically become keenly aware of the world around them. They've
realized that there is more to life than just lazing at your breast and
don't want to miss anything. Unfortunately, at this age, it is
difficult for them to do two things at once. Your son is probably
fascinated by whatever is happening around him during the day and just
can't be bothered to eat. He's smart enough to know he's got to eat
sometime, though, so he makes up for lost time at night. He may also be
teething that might make him uncomfortable during the day.
You might try nursing him during the day in a quiet, dark room with as
little distraction as possible. Turn off the TV, get away from other
children (if possible), and keep things as boring as you possibly can.
This is a phase, and before long, he'll figure out how to nurse and
stand on his head and check out every sight and sound all at the same
time.
Hope this helps a bit!
Melissa Vickers, IBCLC
|
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families. 
