Does your little one keep asking for milk? If so, it's likely that he experienced cluster feeding. Come on, Mother, know what are the causes cluster feeding and how to deal with it.
Cluster feeding is a condition when the baby wants to continue breastfeeding, but for a short time. This is quite normal, especially if the baby is newborn. So, you don't need to worry.
Possible Causes of Babies Constantly Asking for Breastfeeding
At birth, babies will usually feed every 1.5-3 hours. Along with the age of the baby, the frequency of breastfeeding can increase to once every 2-3 hours. now, when experiencing cluster feeding, the baby can ask to be fed every hour.
Until now, experts have not found a definite cause cluster feeding. However, it is believed cluster feeding is a baby's way to:
- Increase daily calorie intake and prevent hunger at night. That is why, cluster feeding occurs more frequently in the afternoon.
- Tell him that he is uncomfortable, for example when he is teething.
What Mothers Can Do When Your Little One Is Experiencing Cluster Feeding
When your little one experiences cluster feeding, You can be a bit of a hassle. So, in order not to get tired, you can work around this in the following ways:
- Breastfeeding too often can drain your energy. Therefore, prepare snacks and water while breastfeeding. Eating snacks and getting enough fluids can keep you energized.
- When your little one experiences cluster feedingMothers should choose a comfortable breastfeeding position. As much as possible, breastfeed your baby on both breasts alternately.
- So as not to get bored, try ok Breastfeed your little one while watching TV or reading a book.
- Being a mother can reduce sleep and rest time, especially when your little one is experiencing cluster feeding. So, when your little one sleeps, try to sleep with him, Bun.
- If you're really tired, especially when your little one goes back and forth asking for breastfeeding, there's nothing wrong with asking your partner or family for help to take care of the house.
Although tiring, cluster feeding can provide benefits for your little one, including increasing the duration of sleep at night and helping him regulate emotions. Breastfeeding more often can also strengthen the bond or bonding with the Little One and increase milk production.
now, after getting an explanation about cluster feeding above, you don't have to worry too much, okay? However, if you experience cluster feeding Your little one rarely defecates or urinates, loses weight, looks lethargic, or has difficulty breathing, immediately take him to the doctor for an examination and treatment.