Breastfeeding is a special and ever-changing experience that can bring both joy and challenges. Just when you think you’ve figured out your baby’s feeding routine, unexpected changes may arise that can shake your confidence. By understanding what to expect, recognizing common changes, and knowing where to find help, you can better prepare yourself to support your baby and create a more positive breastfeeding experience for both of you.

Understanding Breastfeeding Rhythms^1,2,3

Breastfeeding is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Every baby is unique, and as they grow, their needs will change over time. One of the remarkable aspects of breast milk is its ability to adapt to meet your baby’s changing needs, providing them with the right balance of nutrients for every stage of development. 

Common Changes to Feeding Patterns^1,2,3

• Growth Spurts: Common around 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months, growth spurts often lead to increased feeding frequency. This demand helps boost your milk supply to meet your baby’s growing needs.
• Developmental Changes: As babies grow, they may become more easily distracted or curious about their surroundings. By 3-4 months, you might notice your baby pulling away during feedings to look around or play, which is normal.
• Sleep Regressions: Around 4 months, many babies experience a sleep regression, disrupting previously established breastfeeding and sleep patterns. During this phase, your baby may wake more frequently at night, leading to increased nighttime feedings. 
• New Routine: Changes in daily life, such as returning to work, can affect breastfeeding patterns. Adjusting to a new routine may take time for both you and your baby.

Expect the Unexpected^1,2,3

• Increased Feeding Frequency: There may be times when your baby cues to feed more often. Since these times can be unpredictable, it’s important to follow your baby’s cues for more frequent feedings so that your milk supply continues to meet their needs.
• Shorter Feedings: As babies grow, they may become much more efficient during feedings. They might also become more easily distracted, leading to shorter feeds.
• Changes in Milk Supply: Fluctuations in milk supply can occur. Increased breastfeeding often signals your body to produce more milk, while less frequent breastfeeding (such as when your baby begins sleeping longer at night) may decrease milk supply.
• Preferring One Breast: Sometimes babies develop a preference for one breast over the other, often due to a significant difference in milk supply between the two.
• Coughing, Sputtering, Choking: When the flow of milk is too fast, babies might pull away to catch their breath, which can lead to crying and fussiness.
• Back Arching: If milk takes a little longer to let-down, babies may arch their backs and tug at the breast in an effort to stimulate the milk flow. They may also wiggle and arch due to discomfort from reflux or the need to burp.
• Bobbing at the Breast: Babies may “bob” at the breast when they just want to comfort nurse, especially when they’re sleepy but don’t need more milk.
• First Colds: When babies catch their first cold, they may be more irritable and either more or less interested in feeding. Congestion can make it harder for them to latch properly, leading to sudden changes in their breastfeeding pattern.
• Teething: Teething can also impact breastfeeding. Some babies may want to nurse for comfort, while others may refuse the breast altogether.
• Breast Refusal/Nursing Strikes: Sometimes, babies suddenly refuse to breastfeed, known as a nursing strike. This can occur for various reasons, including teething discomfort, illness, (such as an ear infection) or changes to baby’s routine or environment.

Tips for Managing Changes^1,2,3

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Lactation Q & A
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References