Cluster feeding is the postpartum and postpartum period where not only are you better off as a new mom, but you are breastfeeding and feeding so often that your nipples are sore.
We know you're exhausted and haven't showered for days, but you just can't rest. Don't worry, you're not alone, the best part is that this cluster feeding phase isn't just normal, it's temporary.
Newborns breastfeed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. This can be frustrating, especially at night when you're trying to get as much sleep as possible between meals. You might be thinking: is this forever? The answer is simple. Do not. In fact, the plan for things at this stage is quite small. This frequent feeding can signal to your body that your baby needs more breast milk, which can increase your breast milk supply.
Your baby may be cluster fed for the following reasons:
• Your milk slows down at night.
• Your baby is growing.
• Your baby is taking a developmental leap.
• It can calm your baby down.
• Your baby is teething, sick or just thirsty.
Babies instinctively know how much milk they need. So letting them breastfeed as often as needed won't destroy them. However, dealing with cluster feeding can be exhausting, so it's important to keep the following tips in mind to stay sane:
1. Simply join:
Be aware that you will be spending a lot of time with your baby and may not be able to move much during group feeding. Instead, take the time to call a friend, or just be there to sing or talk to your baby.
2. Get help:
During the cluster feeding phase, you may not have time to do much else. Don't be afraid to ask for help, take a hot bath, have a cup of tea, or even take a nap.
3. Nipple Cream Nearby:
Your baby will drink a lot of water, which means your nipples will be very sore. Get nipple cream ready to soothe them. And always have cold packs ready.
4. Think about your need for self-care:
Self-care for young mothers is very important. A well-functioning and happy mother can play an important role in healthy bonds and relationships with her partner and boy. If you ask for help, take the time to do whatever you need to do to get back on your feet before taking on the duties of a new mom.
5. Holding the baby:
As you enter the breastfeeding process, you may find that you are ready to start doing things at home again. However, you may find that your baby isn't ready to let you go. This is where the cloth carrier comes into play. Just wrap them around your chest so you can multitask and get work done while you sleep.
6. Don’t plan ahead:
There is no point in making plans and being disappointed. At this stage, your baby just wants to be on you, feed and sleep. So just grab your time at home and enjoy the moment. It's late to go out and introduce your baby to the world.
7. Be patient:
Unfortunately, even well-rested babies have a charming moment. Those afternoon hours when nothing calms you down. Be patient, forget about the rest of the world, and breastfeed with your baby during this time.
Cluster feeding is temporary, so enjoy some time off on the couch and enjoy new pleasures. Be patient and let it go, the stretcher really gives you some much-needed freedom to get the job done once you're ready. This phase will end quickly, so embrace as much as you can. When it's gone, you'll miss it.
