Newborn Hunger Cues
There are three types of hunger cues when it comes to your baby.
- Initial Hunger Cues
- Dynamic Hunger Cues
- Extreme Hunger Cues
During the Initial stage you may notice your baby:
- Opening and closing their mouth
- Smacking or licking their lips
- Sucking on lips, tongue, hands, toys, etc.
During the Dynamic stage you may notice your baby:
- Attempting to get into a nursing/feeding position
- Fussing or increased breathing
- Hitting/Tapping you on the arm/chest
- Rooting the arm/shoulder/chest of whoever is holding them
- Squirming
During the Extreme stage you may notice your baby:
- Crying
- Frantically moving head
- Turning red
Should I wake up my newborn to eat?
Yes. Most newborns may be very sleepy when they first get home. They should be fed any time hunger cues are noticed, but at least every 2 hours during the day and at least once during the night. Once your pediatrician recognizes a healthy weight gain model, a pattern or schedule may be introduced.
What about feeding during the night?
If you have a sleeper under 4 weeks old, it is recommended to wake the baby at least every 4-5 hours to eat. If your little one is over 4 weeks old and is sleeping through the night and has at least 6 wet diapers and 3 soiled diapers during the day AND your pediatrician has approved the baby's weight gain model, you can allow your baby to sleep.
Always seek the advice from your pediatrician and/or IBCLC
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