Ever feel like your baby is nursing non-stop all of a sudden?
You’re not imagining it—and you’re definitely not alone. When feeding patterns change and your baby seems to be nursing around the clock, it can be confusing and even a little stressful. Let’s take a moment to unpack what’s going on and how you can get through it feeling more supported and confident.
Cluster Feeding- What is it?
Cluster feeding is a period of time when a baby nurses frequently in a short time frame. Generally, a baby will nurse every 2-3 hours, however when a baby cluster feeds their feeding pattern tends to change. The nursing sessions may be shorter and more frequent, or longer feeds with a little break in between, and the baby may be more fussy in between feeds. It is generally common during growth spurts and in the evenings.
Why Do Babies Cluster Feed?
Cluster feeding helps to boost your milk supply through demand-driven feeding. They need more milk as they hit their growth spurts and go through developmental stages, as their brain grows and they develop motor skills. Babies may cluster feed to comfort and soothe themselves as well.
The Signs
If your baby starts to cluster feed, these are the signs to know that that is what is happening. Your baby will start nursing closer together, around every 30-45 minutes instead of every 2-3 hours. They may be fussy and unsettled in between nursing sessions, and the sessions themselves will last longer than normal with little time in between sessions.
How to cope
Cluster feeding can feel really exhausting, and it’s totally normal to feel a little discouraged or overwhelmed by it. Just know you’re not doing anything wrong—and there are simple ways to care for yourself and stay encouraged while your baby goes through this phase.
1. Managing Expectations
I know it feels like it will last forever, but it won’t. This is a temporary stage and your baby will soon return back to their normal feeding pattern. At the start, you may feel like your body won’t be able to keep up with all the feeding, but you should trust your body’s ability in adjusting your supply. It won’t last forever, you can do this!
2. Finding Ways to Stay Comfortable
The second way is to find ways to stay comfortable. This could mean using a different breastfeeding position so that you’re not in the same position for several hours. You should also make sure that you are staying hydrated and eating good food. Have a glass of water with you and keep 1 handed snacks and easy meals on hand to ensure that your body will be well nourished.
3. Creating a Supportive Environment
The third way to cope is to create a supportive environment. This could look like asking for help with a task you would usually complete. Maybe asking a friend or family member to help you around the house or with other children. You should also try to take breaks when possible. You are nursing more than you normally would and it’s ok to give your body some more rest. Remember, this is only a temporary stage!
4. Resting & Self-Care
Lastly, make sure that you are resting and taking care of yourself. This could look like taking a nap when the baby is napping, even if it’s not something you would normally do. You should also try to manage the emotional stress that cluster feeding may cause you. This can look like getting outside and sitting in the sun or taking a walk. Maybe it would help you to read or listen to an audiobook.
When to seek support
Throughout this stage of cluster feeding, it is good to remember that it is temporary and to trust your body, but there are times to seek support. If you have concerns about your milk supply and it seems like your baby isn’t getting enough milk, you should seek help from a lactation consultant. They can help you through this stage and ensure that your baby and you are getting the help and support you need.
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If you are entering or in the stage of cluster feeding, or you’re trying to get all the information you can before your baby enters that stage, remember that this is a natural and temporary phase. This stage will take patience and flexibility. But you’re not alone. You’ve got this, mama!