For new parents, one of the biggest challenges they face is ensuring that their newborns are getting the nutrition they need. This responsibility can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to knowing how often to feed their child and whether or not they should wake them up for feedings. There is a lot of conflicting information out there, which can make it challenging to know what to do.
In this thought leadership post, we will dive into the question of whether or not you should wake your newborn for feedings. We will explore expert insights and tips on feeding schedules, sleep patterns, and weight gain in infants. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to ensure that your newborn is getting all the nutrition they need.
What Experts Say About Waking Your Newborn for Feedings
The general consensus among pediatricians and experts is that in most cases, you should wake your newborn for feedings. This is because newborns have tiny stomachs and need to eat frequently to get all the nutrients they need.
Most experts recommend feeding your newborn every 2-3 hours during the day and at least once during the night. This means waking them up if they haven’t already woken up on their own. It’s essential to establish a consistent feeding schedule to ensure that your baby gets enough milk or formula.
According to Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician at Pediatrics Associates in Kansas City, Missouri:
“It’s important for young babies to feed frequently throughout the day and night because they have small tummies and fast metabolisms. They burn through calories quickly and need more food than older babies.”
Sleep Patterns in Newborns
One of the concerns many new parents have about waking their newborn for feedings is disrupting their sleep patterns. It’s natural to want your baby to get as much sleep as possible, but it’s vital to remember that newborns need to eat frequently to grow and develop.
Most newborns will naturally wake up every 2-3 hours for feedings during the first few weeks of life. However, if your baby is sleeping longer stretches and not waking up on their own, you should wake them up for feedings. This is particularly important during the first few weeks of life when babies are still learning how to regulate their body temperature and blood sugar levels.
If you’re concerned about disrupting your baby’s sleep patterns, try to keep things as quiet and calm as possible during nighttime feedings. You don’t need to turn on all the lights or make a big production out of feeding your baby. Keep the room dimly lit and avoid stimulating your baby too much.
Weight Gain in Infants
Another important consideration when it comes to feeding your newborn is weight gain. In general, newborns should gain weight at a rate of around 0.5-1 ounce per day during the first few weeks of life. If your baby is not gaining weight at this rate, it may be a sign that they’re not getting enough milk or formula.
If you’re concerned about your baby’s weight gain, talk to your pediatrician. They can help you determine whether or not you need to wake your baby for more frequent feedings or adjust their feeding schedule in some way.
When Not to Wake Your Newborn for Feedings
While most experts recommend waking your newborn for feedings in most cases, there are some situations where it may be appropriate to let them sleep:
- If your baby is premature or has health issues, you should talk to your pediatrician about their feeding schedule. In some cases, it may be necessary to wake them up for more frequent feedings, while in other cases, it may be better to let them sleep.
- If your baby is jaundiced, they may need to get more fluids to help flush out bilirubin from their system. Your pediatrician will advise you on how often to feed them.
Conclusion
Feeding a newborn can be a challenge, but with the right information and support, you can make sure that your baby is getting all the nutrition they need. In most cases, it’s important to wake your newborn for feedings, as they need to eat frequently to grow and develop. However, if you have concerns about waking your baby or are unsure about their feeding schedule, talk to your pediatrician. They can provide expert guidance on how best to care for your newborn.
Remember that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust their feeding schedule as needed. With time and patience, you’ll find the right balance that works best for both you and your little one.