How to Get Newborns to Finish a Feeding

Once your baby enters the world, life is a whirlwind of excitement and stressful, new scenarios. If you̵7;ve chosen to breastfeed, you are giving your newborn perfect nutrition that is always readily available when he needs it -- you just have to get used to the whole procedure. As you get the hang of nursing, you will start to notice his hunger and satiety cues to tell when it̵7;s lunchtime and when it̵7;s naptime.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider that your newborn has a small stomach capacity and that it doesn̵7;t take much for him to be full. When your baby is born, his stomach can only hold 5 to 7 milliliters, or a portion of fluid approximately the size of a marble. This explains why your colostrum is plenty for your little one during this time. By day three, his stomach can hold about 3/4 to 1 ounce. This is why he will nurse frequently, but not for very long. At the end of the first week, 1 1/2 to 2 ounces of milk can be safely held in his stomach.

    • 2

      Understand that a baby, even a newborn, is good at self-regulating how much to eat. Look for signs to let you know when he is full and the feeding is done, such as falling asleep, turning away or simply looking satisfied and content. As the La Leche League International website points out, he will look like a ̶0;drunk sailor̶1; at the end of a successful feeding.

    • 3

      Check to see if your baby is latched on correctly. If it̵7;s an improper latch, he may pull away thinking that there̵7;s no milk for him. You may see little or no areola during a good latch. Watch to see if his mouth and cheeks are making a sucking action and if his ears are wiggling slightly. His lips should be out around your nipple like a fish, not folded inward. You might be able to hear him swallow. You should be comfortable and not feel any pain when he nurses. Try to stay calm and attempt a new latch on to see if this helps.

    • 4

      Get creative if your newborn continues to fall asleep right after a feeding starts and you believe that he still needs some nourishment. Remove his socks. Gently tickle his feet or sides. Talk or sing to him. Reposition him or switch him to the other breast.

    • 5

      Consult a lactation specialist or your baby's health care provider for further tips and advice on this issue.

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