Why does my baby wake so often?
To obtain sufficient nutrients and energy from milk alone (either breast or formula), babies need to feed at frequent intervals through the day. For many babies, feeding every four hours or more leaves them feeling satisfied until the next meal. They sleep well and wake rested for their next feed. Other infants, however, start to feel hungry much sooner and either find it hard to settle or wake frequently, sleeping only for brief periods. Understandably, tired, hungry babies feel grumpy and tend to cry much of the time.
What can I do to help my hungry baby?
Breastfeeding is the most compatible nutrition for babies and you should continue feeding as normal. It is difficult to overfeed a breast fed baby. If you are already bottle feeding, you should follow the recommended feeding schedule and ask your healthcare professional for advice if you feel your baby is not satisfied.
Don’t be tempted to introduce solids too early (before 6 months) or add cereal to a feed, as your baby’s digestive system has not yet matured.
How else can I help my baby sleep?
There are various settling techniques that can be used to encourage sleep. Your early childhood nurse can advise you or refer you to a specialised organisation. Giving your baby a warm bath before bedtime, followed by a gentle massage or soft music in the baby’s room may help.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Breast milk is best for babies. Professional advice should be followed before using an Infant Formula. Introducing partial bottle feeding could negatively affect breastfeeding. Good maternal nutrition is important for breastfeeding and reversing a decision not to breast feed may be difficult. Infant Formula should be used as directed. Proper use of an Infant Formula is important to the health of the infant. Social and financial implications such as preparation requirements and the cost of providing formula up to the age of 12 months should be considered when selecting a method of feeding. |
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