breastfeeding  - how often at 8 weeks?

Are you trying to figure out how often your 8 week old should be nursing?

New babies should be fed "on cue". At eight weeks, your baby probably has signs that tell you when she's hungry - for instance, rooting (moving her mouth from side to side looking for the nipple, turning the head if something brushes around their face or mouth). She may also try to put her fingers in her mouth or suck on her lips or tongue. She may grimace or fuss too. Every baby is different and you'll soon recognize her hunger signs. Crying is actually a late indicator of hunger, meaning that by the time she lets out a yell, she's overdue for a meal! If you breastfeed before your baby cries, you'll likely have a more relaxing feeding for both of you. She'll swallow less air and latch on better, and your nerves won't be frazzled.

If you are concerned that your baby is not nursing enough, try to nurse on the first breast until baby pulls away, then offer the second side. Don't remove her from the breast to switch however, be sure to let her finish so she gets the fattier "hindmilk" that comes later on in the feeding. Also try to burp the baby and then she will often be ready to eat again since she will have made room in her tummy.

Sometimes when a young infant reaches a growth spurt they want to nurse more frequently. Your baby may be snacking more often - that is be interested in nursing for a shorter time period but more often through the day. Try not to be discouraged during a nursing snacking phase, it is just that, a phase. A couple or three days of increased nursing by your baby will increase your milk supply to meet her needs.

As babies get a little older their nursing schedules may change due to sleeping longer or growth spurts. If you are concerned your baby is not nursing enough, check to see how many diapers they are producing and if they are gaining weight well.

If your 8 week old is breastfeeding frequently and you feel like you'll never get off the couch, rest assured that this stage will soon be over. Try to relax and enjoy your nursing sessions. Read or check email if it makes you feel more productive. If you need to get things done try nursing baby in a sling. This will allow you to meet her needs while still getting some housework done or spending time with your other children.