what is cluster FEEDING?
Cluster feeding is when a baby feeds more frequently, usually every 30 minutes to an hour over a period of a few hours. Cluster feeding is more common in breastfed babies to increase mom’s milk supply. Babies who are formula fed also sometimes cluster feed.
This type of feeding usually happens during the first three to four months of life when babies grow quickly. Newborns usually feed almost every 2 to 3 hours. However, with cluster feeding, the baby wants to feed even more making moms feel like they are breastfeeding the baby almost constantly.
It is normal for babies to cluster feed. It is especially common during the early days of breastfeeding. – WebMD
babies MAY BE cluster feeding if THEY:
- Eat more frequently than usual usually every 30 minutes to an hour.
- Are fussier than usual which can be a sign of growth spurt.
- Tend to eat more often during the evening.
- Settle down quickly after eating. If the baby is still fussy after eating, then something else may be going on.
It is important to feed your newborns on demand. This means feeding them whenever they give you hunger cues like
- Snacking or licking lips
- Moving their mouth, making sucking sounds and motions
- Sucking on their fingers and fists
- Clenching their fist
- Bringing their hand into their mouth
- Rooting . Rooting is a newborn reflex in which babies turn their heads to anything that touches their face and open their mouth looking for a nipple.
How long does cluster feeding LAST?
It usually lasts for a few days. How long your baby will cluster feed depends on the cause. You may find that your baby cluster feeds in the first few days as your milk comes in.
Growth spurts are another common cause of cluster feeding and last anywhere from 2 to 3 days up to a week. Baby growth spurts tend to occur when the baby is
- 2 to 3 weeks old
- 6 weeks old
- 3 months old
- 6 months old
why is my newborn cluster FEEDING?
Babies cluster feed for a number of reasons. You baby may be
- Establishing your milk supply after birth
- Making up for not eating well at the previous feeding
- Going through a growth spurt
- Filling up before a longer stretch of sleep in the evening
Newborns and older babies may cluster feed when they are teething or sick.
In most cases, cluster feeding is not a sign that your baby is not getting enough to eat due to low milk supply.
If you are concerned about your baby’s cluster feeding or your milk supply, contact your physician.
how to cope with cluster feeding
Cluster feeding can be exhausting but you can cope with these tips.
- Eat well. It is important to have a healthy breakfast diet and get enough calories.
- Drink enough water to stay hydrated and support your milk supply.
- Get enough rest when you can.
- When you are overwhelmed, remind yourself that cluster feeding is a normal and a healthy part of a baby’s development.
Content Sources
How to Identify and Manage Cluster Feeding.Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/cluster-feeding. Accessed June 7th, 2023
Cluster feeding. What is it. https://www.webmd.com/baby/cluster-feeding-what-is-it. Accessed June 7th, 2023