Breast milk…am I an under-producer?

Question

My son is about to be 8 months old. And instead of breastfeeding every 3-4 hours like most people say babies do at this age, he feeds every 1 1/2-2/12 hours. He only feeds for max 5 minutes on each side and even though I’ve tried to have him feed longer, he won’t. Not only that, but he still wakes up at least 3 times a night, and usually I feed him twice. But this past month I’ve been trying to wean by only feeding him on once side each time he wakes at night. AND he is now getting three meals a day, which his pediatrician said to try. Nothing is working and I am exhausted. I am now working full time from home and just don’t have time to keep breastfeeding like this. Has anyone else been through something similar or have any thoughts? Thanks.

Answer

This does not sound like under producing at all. Sounds completely normal. Some babes are efficient snackers. My girl was like this! 
Milk should be the number source of nutrition until age 1. 3 meals a day at 8 months is quite a bit and could interfere with milk intake. If milk intake decreases, solids should be reduced. 
If breastfeeding is taking a toll on you, it’s okay to switch to formula. Babe is too young to fully wean. Babe still needs 24-32oz a day whether it’s breast milk or formula.

Answer

That sounds pretty normal to me. My LO is 10 months and still wakes up 3-5 times at night, so I give him a breast. During the day I propose the breast to him pretty often, just almost every time I take a break from work, he latches but not for long. The longest time on a breast is usually during day sleeps. I give him the breast, he fells asleep on Bobby pillow on my knees, continues sucking and I just continue working. Not easy for a full time worker but I want him to get only breast milk with no formula (for sure he has already three meals a day).

Answer

My daughter was like this. 
He'll grow out of it as he gets bigger. Especially as you give him more food. 
Does he have enough activities to do during the day?

Answer

That doesn’t mean you’re an under producer. My son nursed like that until he was almost one and I was over producing. It may just be how your son eats! If he’s growing fine and hitting milestones then that’s what matters.

Answer

That sounds exactly like my son who is now 2. He was very efficient at breast feeding and had short but more frequent sessions just like that. As long as your baby is growing, meeting milestones, and gaining weight appropriately with a sufficient number of wet/dirty diapers, I wouldn’t worry too much :) but of course please discuss any concerns with your medical professionals!

Answer

You might not be making enough. Pump and see what you get, or do a weighted feed

Breast milk…am I an under-producer?

Let’s Glow

Glow is here for you on your path to pregnancy

25+ million

4.8 stars

20+

Getting Pregnant

Pregnancy

1st Year (Baby & You)

Baby Products