Is My Baby's Feeding Schedule Normal at 38 Days Old?

Breastfeeding issues

Doctor, my baby is 38 days old and currently weighs 4900 grams.
He drinks 150 cc per feeding.
Sometimes he cries and wants to eat in less than 3 or 4 hours, and despite trying to soothe him, it doesn't help, so I just feed him.
Is this feeding pattern normal? Can his digestive system handle feeding in less than 4 hours?

Huaiqi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/14

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Dear Huaiqi,
Hello! It is normal to drink 100-200 cc/kg per day, which translates to 490 cc-980 cc/day.
150 cc * 6 = 900 cc, which is still within this range.
At 38 days old, weighing 4900 grams is a very good weight, and you can continue to breastfeed according to her needs.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Pei Rensheng
Attending Physician, Pediatrics
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2016/08/14

More Info

At 38 days old, your baby's feeding schedule appears to be within a normal range. Based on the information provided, your baby weighs 4900 grams and consumes approximately 150 cc per feeding. This translates to around 900 cc of milk per day if fed six times, which is consistent with the recommended intake of 100-200 cc per kilogram of body weight. Therefore, your baby's feeding volume is appropriate for their weight.

Newborns typically feed every 2 to 4 hours, and it is common for them to cry when they are hungry. If your baby is showing signs of hunger, such as crying, it is perfectly acceptable to feed them even if it has been less than 3 or 4 hours since their last feeding. Babies have small stomachs, and their nutritional needs can vary from one feeding to the next. Some may require more frequent feedings, especially during growth spurts, which are common in the early weeks of life.

As for your concern about whether feeding every 3 hours or less could harm your baby's gastrointestinal system, rest assured that newborns are designed to handle frequent feedings. Their digestive systems are quite adaptable, and as long as your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and producing an adequate number of wet diapers (typically 6-8 per day), there should be no cause for concern regarding their stomach's ability to handle the frequency of feedings.

It's also important to note that breast milk is easily digestible and provides all the necessary nutrients for your baby's growth and development. If you are breastfeeding, your body will adjust to your baby's feeding patterns, and your milk supply will typically increase to meet their demands.

In summary, your baby's feeding schedule of 150 cc per feeding, with intervals of less than 4 hours, is normal and healthy for a 38-day-old infant. Continue to respond to your baby's hunger cues, and ensure that they are gaining weight and staying hydrated. If you have any further concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to consult your pediatrician for personalized advice and reassurance.

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