If a mother’s baby is struggling to gain weight while breastfeeding, there are several steps she can take to address the issue and ensure her baby is getting the nutrition they need.
Check for Signs of Inadequate Weight Gain
First, it’s important to determine if the baby is truly not gaining enough weight. Some signs that indicate inadequate weight gain include:
- Not meeting age-appropriate growth milestones
- Fewer wet diapers than usual
- Fussiness or seeming unsatisfied after feedings
If these signs are present, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical issues that may be affecting the baby’s weight gain.
Addressing Breastfeeding Concerns
If it’s determined that the baby is not gaining enough weight due to breastfeeding issues, there are several strategies a mother can try:
Ensure Proper Latch
A proper latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding. A shallow latch can lead to inadequate milk transfer, resulting in poor weight gain. Some tips for achieving a good latch include:
- Ensuring the baby’s mouth covers a large portion of the areola, not just the nipple
- Bringing the baby to the breast, not the breast to the baby
- Seeking help from a lactation consultant for guidance
Increase Feeding Frequency
Increasing the frequency of feedings can help ensure the baby is getting enough milk. Some babies may need to nurse more often to stimulate milk production. Encouraging the baby to breastfeed on demand can help increase milk supply and promote weight gain.
Breast Compression
Breast compression involves gently squeezing the breast to help the baby get more milk while nursing. This technique can be especially helpful for babies who have difficulty effectively transferring milk. It can help ensure the baby is getting enough milk during feedings.
Pumping and Supplementing
If the baby is not gaining enough weight despite efforts to improve breastfeeding, pumping after feedings and supplementing with expressed breast milk or formula can help ensure the baby is getting enough calories. Pumping can help increase milk supply and provide additional nutrition for the baby.
Monitoring Weight Gain
It’s important to monitor the baby’s weight gain regularly to ensure they are progressing as expected. Some tips for monitoring weight gain include:
- Keeping track of the baby’s weight gain on a growth chart
- Consulting with a healthcare provider to determine if the baby is gaining enough weight
- Seeking assistance from a lactation consultant if weight gain continues to be a concern
Seek Professional Help
If efforts to improve breastfeeding and weight gain are not successful, it’s important to seek help from healthcare providers who specialize in lactation and infant nutrition. A lactation consultant can provide guidance and support to address breastfeeding challenges and ensure the baby is getting the nutrition they need to thrive.