When Should I Start Eliminating a Feed?
By Laura Silvas, RN IBCLC
Nursing strikes, introducing solids, and spacing out feedings can all be tricky when nursing your baby. In addition, as they grow, the schedule you were accustomed to is suddenly different. So, when do you start eliminating feeds?
Change of pace
It may seem like you finally have a great routine down when it comes to nursing. At least, that's how I felt. I knew when my baby would nurse or nap, and my day was planned around it. Suddenly, things were changing. He was spacing out feeds. It was now 3-4 hours until he seemed interested, throwing off my schedule and leaky breasts. Depending on your infant's age, you may also notice this occurring. As your child grows, they will start spacing out their feeds. This is nothing to be alarmed about as long as they follow their growth curve! For example, by the six-month mark, your little one may be nursing about six times a day. By 12 months, this reduces to about four times a day.
Your magic milk
That magic milk your body has been creating for your baby is still every bit as beneficial as it was at the beginning. Not only is it providing nutrients, but comfort as well. You may find your baby nursing shorter sessions during the day for several reasons:
They are efficient! Your baby knows where his food is and how to get it out! Don't be surprised when your nursing sessions reduce from 30-40 minutes to 15-20 min. It doesn't always mean your milk is decreasing, but your baby is effectively draining the breast and moving on to their next activity. Distraction nursing, anyone?
Mama=comfort. One of the sweetest things is being able to comfort your distressed baby with your body. You represent a safe space. Sometimes, you may see your baby wanting to come to the breast randomly for comfort, such as during teething or illness.
Milk Composition
Did you know that your body adjusts your milk composition as your baby grows? Just like your body knows how to grow your baby, it knows how to feed your baby! As your baby matures, your milk changes its composition to adjust to their nutritional needs. Increased fat content levels and immune defense cells are loaded into your milk to ensure growth and protection. You may notice if you're a pumping mama, the fat rim on your bottles is thicker as your baby gets older. Pretty neat!
Food for thought
The long explanation here is that just as you relied on your baby for hunger cues at the beginning of your journey, your baby will continue to tell you what they need. Remember, food under one is for fun (another topic for another day). Babies can naturally space their feedings, while others stick with their regular 2-3 feedings a day pattern. If you're concerned about their weight gain or growth, always check with your pediatrician to ensure they follow their growth curve. Scheduling an appointment with a lactation consultant can also ease your mind if you are worried about your baby's feeding pattern.
If you are thinking of breastfeeding, are currently breastfeeding, or need support, contact us here at Leva; we would love to help you and your baby.
