from thirty to forty minutes this first week. Here’s where the work
begins. You want to try keeping baby awake at the breast. You want your
baby taking full feedings as opposed to snacking. Full feedings are the
key to success both in terms of early lactation and establishing a healthy
routine. It is our experience that mothers who work to get a full feeding
during the first week have babies who naturally transition into predictable
three-hour routines within seven to ten days.
- My baby wants to sleep more than eat. What do I do?
This is fairly common. During those early days your baby can be
quite sleepy. Sleep alone is no problem. Missed feedings are. If you find
your baby’s sleep is interfering with your efforts to feed on routine,
consider the following actions.
Unwrap your baby before feeding if he is wrapped or swaddled in a
blanket. Swaddled babies tend to sleep longer periods.
Avoid water or formula supplements unless directed by your
pediatrician. Also, avoid pacifiers during the first week.
Do not let your baby sleep longer than three hours during week one.
Sleeping skills are not the priority this first week. Adequate lactation
must take top billing.
Gently stroke a cool washcloth on your baby’s face, forehead, neck.
No guilt. Remember, full feedings represent your baby’s best
interests. The cool cloth is a means toward this end.
Vary your nursing position. Instead of the cuddle hold, try the side-
lying position. Check to see that baby is latched on properly.
Get your baby to take full feedings.
If feeding doesn’t go well, wait thirty to forty-five minutes and try
again.
Call your pediatrician if your baby acts lethargic, is not eating every
three hours, or is not stooling.