Bfing and feeding on demand

michele31 Posted: Jul 15, 2003 05:12 AM

Bfing and feeding on demand

From what I have read the only way to bf is to feed on demand. now I know that very small infants do not go on schedule at all, or at least many don't. But from your experience is bfing an 'on demand' thing for months? I mean, can I put an 8 week old bfing baby on a schedule at all or does it continue to be an on-demand type thing? I am a bit worried about going back to work at 12 weeks and having NO schedule at all. thanks for the advice girls.

Misha Posted: Jul 15, 2003 07:51 AM

Re: Bfing and feeding on demand

Don't worry Michele. It is likely that your baby will fall into some kind of schedule by then. You can somewhat set it to your needs because you will figure out how long he can go between feedings. After the first couple of months it will probably be less frequent than the every 2 hours or so initially. Do keep in mind that they go through a few growth spurts (usually around 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months) where they will need/want to eat more or more often. The first first month is the toughest because they seem to eat CONSTANTLY.

NIHA Posted: Jul 15, 2003 09:42 AM

Re: Bfing and feeding on demand

As you know I'm very new at this, but I've been finding a lot of online resources that will answer questions about bfding and going back to work. Hope this helps:

http://bf.marie.org/resources/working.html

http://www.geocities.com/breastfeedinglinks/

http://www.askdrsears.com/html/2/T020100.asp

If you haven't already, also check pregnancyandbaby.com boards (both Geo parent and the Just Add baby boards), and parentsplace.com (or ivillage.com).

melissa27 Posted: Jul 15, 2003 10:48 AM

Re: Bfing and feeding on demand

Lyndsey is 3 months old and not really on a schedule yet. And since she sleeps through the night now for at least 8 hours, she wants to eat more often during the day...like every 2 hours. That's the hardest thing (for me) about BFing....it seems like they want to eat constantly.

phyl Posted: Jul 15, 2003 11:37 AM

Re: Bfing and feeding on demand

I second Mishas advice...a pattern will soon develop...usually does after 3 months or so the dr said..
It is very hard when they want to eat every 2 hours...it seems like you never get a chance to get a shower, get dressed...or eat something...be patient...you will develop a routine as well

kudos on BFing...I am BFing as well..and having to suppliment 2 bottles of formula a day as I can't pump enough!