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Sally Tedstone, UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative
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Breastfeeding Expert Midwife and Breastfeeding Educator with UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative
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Breastfeeding

Is my baby having a growth spurt?

Babies don't grow smoothly and slowly - they have growth spurts. These are sometimes called ‘frequency days’. There's usually one around 2 weeks and more growth spurts later on too. They don’t always come at specific times and every baby is different. There are various things to be aware of so you'll be ready to cope!
In Short
Signs of a growth spurt include that your baby wants to feed much more than usual.

Follow her feeding cues and try to feed her little and often - as often as she wants. Things will probably settle down again after a few days.

Try to resist the urge to "top up" with formula if you can - your breast milk supply should increase quite quickly. If you give other milk, your breasts may miss out on some important messages.

Growth Spurts for Breast Fed Babies

Mums can sometimes be worried or disheartened if their baby changes her feeding pattern and wants lots and lots of feeds.

Often with these growth spurts, a baby will ask for more feeds for 24 hours to 48 hours. This boosts milk production then everything settles down again.

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If your baby has been feeding well and is producing lots of dirty nappies and they suddenly seem to want the breast more frequently, your baby may be having a growth spurt. If you feel that your baby’s attachment is good and feeding has been going well then you can follow your baby’s lead and hopefully, things will settle down. Try to be confident that your breasts will continue to provide all your baby needs.

However, if feeding is painful, your baby seems unsettled or you feel worried you should speak to your doctor or health visitor or local breastfeeding clinic for advice.

Cluster feeds

Cluster feeding is quite common in babies. Mums will often find that in the late afternoon or early evening their baby wants lots of feeds close together.

Nobody knows why some babies cluster their feeds at this time of day. Unfortunately, this can make some mums doubt themselves and think, I only fed my baby an hour ago and she wants more, what’s wrong with my milk? Haven’t I got enough milk? If feeding is going well and established then try not to worry and let your baby feed more at this time.

The clever thing about cluster feeding is that some mums say that when their baby has cluster fed in the evening then they go on to sleep a bit longer at night!

DISCLAIMER
This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Essential Parent has used all reasonable care in compiling the information from leading experts and institutions but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details click here.