Newborn FAQs
The first secretions from the breast called COLOSTRUM are very important for the baby. Ideally, the baby should be put to the breast within 1 hour of delivery. Earlier, the better. Colostrum has important immunity-boosting ingredients which are very important for the baby.
1) When should I feed my newborn?
Ideally, feed the baby on demand. Try to recognize the EARLY CUES (sucking movement of the mouth, baby becoming semi-awake) and take the baby for feeding. Do not wait till the baby cries, as crying is a LATE CUE, and a crying baby cannot latch well.
2) How do I know my milk is sufficient for the baby?
The baby should be passing urine at least 7-8 times in 24 hours. The color of the urine should be light yellow or white. When you feed on one breast, there should be leaking of milk from the other breast. All these indicators suggest that your milk supply is sufficient. A good weight gain is the most definitive indicator, so regular weight checks are important.
3) My baby has noisy breathing and sneezes frequently. Is it a cold? What should I do?
Noisy breathing and sneezing are usually normal in babies. Ensure the baby takes feeds properly and passes adequate urine. Discuss this with your pediatrician at the next routine visit. Schedule a visit early if you feel the baby is not feeding well.
4) Are hiccups and passing gas normal in babies?
Yes. Both are normal as long as the baby is feeding properly and gaining good weight.
5) How long should I feed on one breast before giving the other breast?
Feed on one breast until the baby leaves it on their own. Only then offer the other breast. If unsure, discuss this further with your pediatrician at the clinic visit.
6) What is foremilk and hindmilk? What is the difference?
The first milk that comes at the start of feeding is called foremilk. It is more watery and satisfies the baby’s thirst. The last part of the milk is called hindmilk, which has more nutrients and satisfies hunger. It’s important to give both foremilk and hindmilk, so let the baby empty the breast fully before offering the other breast during the same feed.
7) Is it necessary to feed the baby from both breasts at the same feed?
No. This varies from baby to baby. Some babies prefer feeding from one breast completely and then taking a little from the other. In such cases, start the next feed with the breast used less in the previous feed. Some babies feed from one side at a time.
8) My breasts were heavy on days 5, 6, and 7 of the baby’s age. Now they are no longer heavy. Has my milk supply dropped?
Initial heaviness in the breasts is due to increased supply but relatively less demand from the baby. Once demand and supply match, milk doesn’t accumulate, and the breasts don’t feel heavy. Your milk flow is adequate if the criteria in FAQ 2 are met.
9) My baby passes watery yellowish stools after every feed. Does she have loose motions?
Exclusively breastfed babies often pass watery yellowish stools with whitish granules and a sour smell. Some babies may pass stool after every feed, while others may pass stool just once every 5-7 days. Both patterns are normal if the baby feeds well and passes urine at least 7-8 times in 24 hours.
10) I think my baby feels warm to the touch. Does she have a fever?
Babies should feel a little warmer than the back of your hand. If they feel extra warm, keep them uncovered for 10 minutes. Then measure their temperature in the armpit for 3 minutes or until the thermometer beeps. If the temperature is below 99°F, there is no fever. If above 99°F, it’s considered fever. Continue feeding the baby frequently and contact your pediatrician for a check-up.