Baby's weight does not increase can be a sign that he is not getting enough milk. In fact, breast milk contains the nutrients needed for growth and development. In addition, there are several things that can also inhibit the baby's weight gain.
Normal weight loss is experienced by newborns even though they are healthy and receiving exclusive breastfeeding. This condition generally lasts for the first few days after birth due to the baby's body adjustment process outside the womb.
When the baby reaches two weeks of age, his weight will return to its birth weight and begin to increase slowly with age. However, there are times when the baby's weight does not go up and this can be influenced by several things.
Various Reasons Babies Don't Gain Weight
The following are some of the reasons that can cause a baby to not gain weight or have difficulty gaining weight:
1. Babies rarely breastfeed
Newborns need to breastfeed at least every 2–4 hours throughout the day for the first 6–8 weeks of birth. Feeding frequency that is less than it should be can cause the baby's weight to not increase.
2. Short duration of breastfeeding
Babies should nurse for at least 8–10 minutes on each side of the breast. The duration of breastfeeding that is too short can also make the baby's weight not increase. It can also happen because the baby feels tired and falls asleep before getting enough milk.
3. Uncomfortable breastfeeding position
An uncomfortable breastfeeding position or improper latch can also affect breast milk intake. For example, a baby's lips only stick to the nipple or when his tongue is not under the nipple while feeding. This can prevent the baby from sucking breast milk.
4. Low or delayed milk production
Some breastfeeding mothers can experience delays in milk production or milk that comes out a little. This can affect the amount of milk your baby receives while feeding. As a result, the baby's nutritional intake can not be met so that it has an impact on the baby's growth and development, including his weight.
5. Digestive disorders
The baby's weight that is difficult to gain can also be a sign that he is experiencing problems with his digestion, such as diarrhea, stomach acid, or food intolerances consumed by the mother.
6. Inappropriate selection of formula milk
Some mothers are unable to fully exclusively breastfeed and need to be assisted with formula milk according to the doctor's advice. However, the selection of formula milk and improper way of serving can cause the baby's weight to not increase. Therefore, giving formula milk should not be done carelessly.
Apart from the things above, there are other things that also make it difficult for the baby to gain weight, for example, the mother has nipples that are too hard, too big, or even go in.
Tips for Overcoming Baby's Weight Not Rising
If your little one has difficulty gaining weight, you should take him to the doctor so he can be checked. The doctor will find out the cause and determine the appropriate treatment for your little one's health condition.
In addition, there are some tips that you can try to increase your baby's weight, namely:
- Give breast milk more often by breastfeeding your little one every time he shows signs of hunger or every 2-3 hours.
- If your baby can suckle directly from the nipple, avoid using a pacifier or pacifier. Mothers can give a pacifier or pacifier after the baby reaches a normal weight.
- Try to keep your little one awake for at least 20 minutes each feeding by changing the feeding position or tickling the baby's feet.
- If you have problems with milk production, try taking breast milk boosters or supplements from your doctor.
- Make sure your little one is not swaddled tightly during breastfeeding because it will make him comfortable and fall asleep quickly before getting enough milk.
Every baby goes through a different process of growth and development. Some experience rapid weight gain, but some are slow. However, you don't need to worry, because as long as the baby's weight increases according to his age, this is not a problem.
If you are worried about the baby's weight not gaining weight or there are problems in the breastfeeding process, don't hesitate to consult a doctor to find out the solution.
