Home Forums Breastfeeding Breastfeeding Msg 3 of 3: How to change breastfeeding patterns?

Is there a way to change my DD's breastfeeding patterns? She's 13 weeks old now, and up until now, I have been BFing on demand, which can sometimes be every hour or less, upon waking, and to take naps and at bedtime.

I have had milk supply issues with all three of my children, but this is the first child I am exclusively breastfeeding without supplementation. However, it remains a strong concern of mine whether I am making enough milk for her. She is gaining weight and has the normal amount of wet/dirty diapers, but I still worry that it might not be enough for "her."

I would like to see if I can get her to space out her feedings just a little bit more, but don't want to do anything to reduce my supply, or reduce her milk intake. I know part of it is comfort nursing, but sometimes it's difficult with three kids to whip out your boob to nurse when you have another diaper to change or child to chase after!

Thanks.

Do you carry her in a sling? That can be extremely helpful for the baby who wants to nurse all the time. Gives you a chance to have your hands somewhat free to do other things.
BTW it is wonderful you are exclusively breastfeeding her. It sounds like she is doing fabulous. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Hi Helen,

I agree with Lalle. A sling would help. At 13 weeks your baby needs to be fed often. The infant stomach empties in about 90 mintutes. At around this age your baby would also experience a growth spurt which can feel like she's at you all the time. But this only lasts a few days and then she should settle into a regular routine.

I know it's a struggle but please keep going as best you can. You've been throught the hardest weeks. It only gets better from here on.

Best,

Thanks for the messages. I'm trying to find a sling that works. My maya wrap doesn't seem to work very well, and she doesn't like the native sling. I need to take a class to see how to make nursing work in a sling. Any sling suggestions? Maybe I'll make that another posting...

My greatest challenge is the feeding frequency. i must have small storage capacity, or i produce milk slowly. Because I have to feed in 30 minute increments sometimes, it's difficult running on errands or even picking up my kids from school/ carpool, etc. But I am managing, I was just hoping there would be a way I could have her learn how to space out her feedings a bit.
Thanks.
Helen

Is your maya a pouch? Pouch slings I have found are a little more difficult to get teh baby in position. I would suggest a ring sling because you can adjust them. Maybe try to contact a local LLL group to see if anyone can help you with sling nursing usually those mommas have experience with that.

Maybe you could try the "stretchy wrap"; I nurse my 13 weeks son in it and he loves it! It is pretty easy to make your own if you prefer (and much cheaper).

http://www.mamakangaroo.com/