Your Baby's Feeding Patterns: Is It Normal?

Q: Your Baby's Feeding Patterns: Is It Normal?

Hello： The younger the infant and the lower the birth weight, the more frequently they tend to feed. <br>It is common for babies under one month old to cry from hunger in less than three hours. <br>Of course, this could also be due to gas (with abdominal distension) or issues lik

Baby feeding issues?

I would like to ask the doctor, my baby is currently not yet one month old and does not follow the typical feeding schedule of every four hours.
Instead, he feeds approximately every three hours.
Is this normal? He often cries and does not have a fixed feeding time.
I usually check his diaper and other needs when he cries, and only then do I see if he is actually hungry! Additionally, his belly seems to feel gassy! He often does not sleep after feeding at night and continues to cry.
I am unsure what the issue might be.

Peipei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/16

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello: The younger the infant and the lower the birth weight, the more frequently they tend to feed.
It is common for babies under one month old to cry from hunger in less than three hours.
Of course, this could also be due to gas (with abdominal distension) or issues like infant colic.
Some babies may cry for more than three hours on three nights within a week, making it difficult to soothe them.
This is the definition of infant colic.
You can feed the baby on demand without adhering to a strict interval of three or four hours.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng, Director of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/04/16

More Info

It's completely normal for your baby to feed every 3 hours, especially at this young age. Newborns have small stomachs, and their feeding patterns can vary significantly from one baby to another. Some may feed every 2 hours, while others may go for 3 to 4 hours. The key is to respond to your baby's hunger cues, which can include crying, rooting, or sucking on their hands.
When your baby cries, it's wise to check for other needs first, such as a wet diaper or discomfort. However, if those needs are met and your baby is still fussy, they may indeed be hungry. It's important to remember that crying is a primary way for infants to communicate their needs, and it can sometimes be challenging to determine the exact cause of their distress.

Regarding the sensation of a bloated tummy, this can be common in newborns due to their developing digestive systems. Babies often swallow air while feeding, which can lead to gas and discomfort. To help alleviate this, ensure that your baby is positioned correctly while feeding, and consider burping them frequently during and after feeds. If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable, gentle tummy massages or bicycle leg movements can help relieve gas.

As for nighttime feeding, it's not unusual for newborns to be more wakeful after feeding, especially if they are still adjusting to their new environment. They may also have their days and nights mixed up initially. Establishing a calming bedtime routine can help signal to your baby that it's time to sleep. This could include dimming the lights, reducing noise, and engaging in soothing activities like gentle rocking or singing.

If your baby continues to cry excessively after feeding, it might be worth discussing with your pediatrician. They can assess whether there might be any underlying issues, such as reflux or allergies, that could be contributing to your baby's discomfort.
In summary, feeding every 3 hours is normal for a newborn, and it's essential to respond to their hunger cues. Monitor for signs of discomfort and consider strategies to help with gas. If concerns persist, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance. Your baby's well-being is the top priority, and it's perfectly okay to seek help when needed.

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