Congrats mommyz! Reaching the third month of breastfeeding is quite the achievement! Being able to provide your own breast milk for your baby gives you an unmatched feeling of fulfillment. By now, you’ve probably gotten the hang of nursing every now and then. But did you know by 3-4 months, there will be sudden breastfeeding changes to the way your baby feeds?
Breastfeeding Changes: What To Expect After The First 3 Months
With their tiny tummies, newborns are expected to feed at least every 2-3 hours and around 8 to 12 times a day. But once they develop their digestive systems, you’d notice the feedings start to change. Here are some of the changes you can expect when you and your baby reach the 3-month mark:
- Your baby’s feeding can be shorter than usual. It’s easy to expect your baby to be feeding more now that they’re getting bigger. But that isn’t necessarily the case, especially when your baby is becoming an expert with your breast. At 3 months, they are more efficient at feeding so they are able to get more breast milk in less time.
- Nursing sessions are less frequent. Developmental changes happen quickly at this point in their growth. Their bellies are increasing in size and capacity, which means they can store more breast milk. That’s why they don’t need to be feeding every hour or so anymore.
- Feeding distractions are becoming a thing. Your baby is more aware of their surroundings now. Loud sounds, exciting colors, and movements here and there can make them latch out of your breasts.
Is Your Baby Breastfeeding Enough?
Most moms are concerned by the sudden changes in the way their babies breastfeed. But rest assured, if your baby has been nursing properly and frequently up to this point, there isn’t much to worry about. Yes, it might be a new struggle to know if they are feeding enough since they’re not nursing as much and as often as before. But more than likely, they make up for these throughout the day, especially in the night.
Here are some positive signs to know that your baby is feeding well:
- You change their wet and dirty diapers often
- Your baby is meeting their monthly developmental milestones
- Your baby is getting heavier, with at least 4oz of weight gain per week.
How To Improve On Your Breastfeeding After 3 Months?
With these changes coming, expect to be working on a new routine to improve your breastfeeding. After three months, here’s what you can do to work on your breastfeeding skills:
- Look closely at early hunger cues. Offer your breasts when your baby shows early hunger signs.
- Take away distractions when breastfeeding. It’s best to breastfeed in a quiet and dim place so that you and your baby can concentrate on nursing.
- Use nursing covers when breastfeeding in public. Not only does a nursing cover make you feel more secure and comfortable, but it can also lessen distractions for your baby.
- Max out on sleep when your baby naps in the day. Expect to lose your nightly slumbers and lots of nighttime feedings. Instead, catch up on sleep during the day when your baby naps.
- Try out nursing necklaces. Nursing necklaces work great in grabbing your baby’s attention.
