What to do about this baby.... -

What to do about this baby....

I am asking on behalf of a girlfriend of mine, her son and my son are a week a part. She's been breastfeeding since he was born but doesn't seem to be producing enough. He lost a pound by his 1st pediatricians appt where they had her supplement with formula to bring him back up to weight and he made it but he hasn't been gaining really since then. She started yesterday on a 48 hr campaign to increase supply by on demand feeding for as long and as often as he wants. Since she started he has nursed almost every hour and has only slept a total of 8 hours in 36. They had the same issue in the beginning and supplementing w/ formula doesn't make him sleep either. Is it normal for a baby to sleep so little?

Written by Beth

Posted on 09/19/2008

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Answers:

It sounds like your friend really needs a lactation nurse to determine if there is a supply problem or a latching problem. The baby could be falling asleep b/c he is working so hard, or he isn't sucking right and isn't receiving what he needs. The pediatrician should be able to recommend one in her area that will come ASAP to evaluate the situation.

All the best.

posted by Anna on 09/19/2008

The fact that the baby lost a pound after birth is actually pretty normal. She is doing the right thing by having the baby nurse as often and for as long as possible. Some women's milk doesn't come in until the baby is 5-7 days old. I'm speaking from experience. Once she establishes a routine, she can also pump after each feeding to further increase her supply. Make sure she is drinking enough fluid. She should drink approx 8oz during each feeding. And be sure she sleeps when the baby sleeps. If she isn't sleeping enough, that can also decrease her milk supply.

posted by on 09/26/2008

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