Explain the feeding pattern of healthy breastfed infants

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Breast milk is more easily and completely digested than formula, so breastfed infants usually need to eat more frequently than formula-fed infants do. During the first few weeks, approximately 8 to 12 feedings a day, on demand, as soon as the infant shows early signs of hunger such as increased alertness, activity, or suckling motions. Such a schedule promotes optimal milk production and infant growth. Crying is a late indicator of hunger. An infant who nurses every 2 to 3 hours and sleeps contentedly between feedings is adequately nourished. As the infant gets older, stomach capacity enlarges and the mother's milk production increases, allowing for longer intervals between feedings.

Even though the infant obtains about half the milk from the breast during the first 2 to 3 minutes of suckling, the infant should be encouraged to breastfeed on the first breast for as long as he or she is actively suckling, before being offered the second breast. The next feeding begins on the breast offered last. The infant's suckling, as well as the complete removal of milk from the breast, stimulates milk production.