Coping with Breastfeeding on Demand
Many breastfeeding mothers find it difficult to cope with their baby's sometimes seemingly insatiable demand for milk and question whether this frequent feeding is normal.
The short and simple answer is yes, it is perfectly normal, and one of the main reasons is that your baby may be having a growth spurt.
When your baby is going through a phase of rapid growing, which occurs every few weeks, he will be hungrier, therefore demand more frequent or longer feeds. This is a good sign that your baby is thriving and is enjoying your milk.
Since breastmilk is produced on a supply and demand basis, the more baby breastfeeds, the more milk mum's body produces.
During growth spurts many breastfeeding mums quit breastfeeding as they wrongly feel they must not be producing enough milk. However, this is rarely the case and things will settle once your supply has stabilised and met with baby's demand.
You can help your milk supply along by eating a healthy balanced diet and getting plenty of rest. Some mums also swear by natural remedies such as Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle (available at health food stores)!
However, if you are still worried that your baby is not receiving enough milk, or you just have some general breastfeeding concerns, chat to your health-visitor who can reassure you by weighing your baby to ensure he is gaining weight.
Another reliable sign that your baby is receiving enough milk is that your baby has plenty of wet and soiled nappies each day!
