Is Your Newborn Drinking Enough Milk? Common Feeding Concerns Explained

Milk consumption issues?

An 8-day-old baby is feeding normally, waking up every four hours for a feeding.
However, the baby does not finish each feeding, leaving behind 10-20 ml of milk.
During the feeding process, the baby is burped intermittently, but it seems that after each feeding, the milk either stays in the mouth, dribbles out of the corners, or is spit up, giving the impression that the baby is not swallowing properly.
Sometimes, the baby even seems to gag.
I would like to ask the doctor if this can be resolved.
Is it normal for the baby to leave some milk? Initially, the baby would finish 60 ml after discharge, but starting from day five, the baby began waking up earlier for feedings or would not sleep after feeding.
I adjusted the amount to 90 ml, and the baby would finish it and then sleep.
However, in the following days, if the baby feeds five times, there are three instances where 10-20 ml is left over.
Is this normal?

Jessie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/22

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello! The daily milk intake is approximately 100-200 cc/kg of body weight per day.
If complementary foods are introduced, the milk intake is expected to slightly decrease, but the total amount should remain within this range.
Having smaller meals is acceptable, especially the first meal after waking up, which often results in a slightly higher intake.
Spitting up is common before 4 to 5 months of age; however, if spitting up is accompanied by poor weight gain, bile (green) vomiting, or vomiting after every meal, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician for evaluation.
Sincerely, Dr.
Ren-Sheng Pei, Attending Physician, Department of Pediatrics, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/09/22

More Info

It's completely normal for new parents to have concerns about their newborn's feeding habits, especially in the early days. The situation you're describing—where your 8-day-old baby is not finishing their milk during feedings—is quite common and can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, it's important to understand that newborns have small stomachs. At birth, a baby's stomach can hold about 5-7 mL, which gradually increases in capacity as they grow. By the end of the first week, their stomach can hold around 30-60 mL. This means that even if you prepare a bottle with 60 mL, your baby may not be able to consume it all at once. As they grow, their appetite will increase, and they will be able to consume larger amounts of milk.

Regarding the leftover milk after feedings, it's not unusual for babies to leave some milk in the bottle. Many factors can influence this, including the baby's current appetite, their activity level, and even their mood. If your baby is alert and active, they may be more interested in playing or interacting than finishing their bottle. This is a normal part of their development as they begin to explore the world around them.

As for the spitting up or milk leaking from the mouth during feedings, this can happen for a few reasons. Newborns are still learning how to coordinate their sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Sometimes, they may take in too much air while feeding, which can lead to spitting up. It's good that you're already incorporating burping into the feeding routine, as this can help reduce the amount of air swallowed and minimize spit-up. If your baby seems to be struggling to swallow or is frequently gagging, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

In terms of adjusting the amount of milk you prepare, it sounds like you've already made a good decision by increasing the amount to 90 mL when necessary. It's important to follow your baby's cues; if they seem satisfied after a certain amount, it's okay to let them stop feeding. Over time, you'll get to know your baby's feeding patterns and preferences better.

Regarding the frequency of feedings, it's typical for newborns to feed every 2-4 hours, and some may want to feed more frequently during growth spurts. If your baby is waking up earlier than expected for feedings or not sleeping after a feed, it could be due to their developmental stage or simply a sign that they are adjusting to their new environment.

Lastly, if you have concerns about your baby's feeding habits or if you notice any significant changes in their behavior, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance based on your baby's growth and development.

In summary, it's normal for newborns to leave some milk in the bottle, and their feeding habits will evolve as they grow. Keep observing your baby's cues, and don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Your attentiveness to your baby's needs is a crucial part of their development, and with time, you'll both become more comfortable with the feeding process.

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