Should I Wake Up My Newborn to Eat?

Feeding your newborn is an essential aspect of parenting during those precious early stages of life. Understanding when and how often to feed newborns is often a top concern. One question that may arise is whether you should wake your baby up from their slumber in order to feed them.

In this article, we’ll delve into this topic to provide a well-rounded view and answer to the question: should you wake up your newborn to feed? We’ll explore the significance of regular feedings and the circumstances that may necessitate waking your sleeping baby for feeds. We’ll also discuss when it’s appropriate to let your newborn sleep without interruptions, highlighting their natural cues for hunger and sleep. So, let’s get started.

Newborn Feeding Basics

In the first hour of life, the initiation of early breastfeeding and frequent feeding sessions are crucial. This involves putting your newborn baby to the breast within the first hour of life, as it safeguards infants during their most vulnerable time.

The initial 24 hours primarily require colostrum, a special early-stage breast milk rich in carbohydrates, protein, and antibodies that are naturally produced by the mama’s body to cater to the needs of the baby as they adjust to being out in the world.

Now, naturally, some newborns may be sleepy and disinterested in feeding, which is where the question “Should I wake up my newborn to eat?” pops up. Sometimes, a formula-fed baby’s feeding patterns may differ from those of breastfed babies, but regardless of the type of nutrition, you have to wake your baby up every 2-3 hours to feed them.

Even a few minutes of sucking can be considered a good feeding session since newborns have tiny bellies and might want to refuel often. Frequent feeding also helps increase milk supply in breastfeeding moms.

Reasons to Wake Your Newborn for Feedings

Proper nutrition in the early stages of life sets the foundation for healthy development. During this crucial time, your baby’s body is on a fast-track journey to grow and develop various systems, from their brain to their bones. As such, regular feedings provide the essential nutrients and calories needed to fuel this remarkable transformation. But there are even more benefits to making sure your baby is feeding regularly:

• Energy and Vitality: Babies sleep often and have high energy needs compared to their tiny size. Regular feedings supply the energy needed to support a baby’s active body functions, brain development, and alertness.

• Immune System Support: Breast milk, in particular, is a powerhouse of antibodies that protect your baby against infections and diseases. Waking them for feeds is giving their immune system a helping hand in its critical development.

• Bonding and Comfort: Feeding is not just about nutrition; it’s also an intimate bonding experience between you and your baby. Regular feeds provide them with comfort, warmth, and the security of your presence, which is essential for their emotional well-being.

Additionally, there are instances when waking up your baby for frequent feedings early on is not only recommended but necessary. These include medical conditions where your little one requires more attention and care. Of course, if this is the case, then you need to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider. They can assess your baby’s specific circumstances and provide tailored advice. These conditions include:

• Low Birth Weight: Babies born with a low birth weight, typically weighing less than 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg), may need more frequent feedings to catch up on their growth curve; otherwise, these vulnerable newborns lose weight instead.

• Specific Medical Conditions: Jaundice, metabolic disorders, or certain congenital anomalies affect a baby’s ability to feed or absorb nutrients effectively and may require a strict feeding schedule.

• Premature Birth: Premature babies, born before 37 weeks, often have underdeveloped digestive systems and need to be woken up to feed often so they can continue to grow at an appropriate rate.

When It’s Okay to Let Your Newborn Sleep

As your baby grows and thrives, there comes a time when you can allow them to sleep without the need for scheduled wake-ups for feeds. When your baby’s weight gain is consistent and reaches a birth weight milestone, indicating a healthy growth curve, it’s a reassuring sign that they are receiving adequate nutrition. Consultation and weigh-ins with your healthcare provider can be a good time to seek their guidance on when you can let your baby sleep for longer stretches of time.

Babies also show distinct signs of sleepiness and hunger, respectively. Understanding these cues and differentiating between them can help you find the right balance between ensuring they get enough nourishment and letting them enjoy some peaceful slumber.

However, while these guidelines are helpful, keep in mind that every baby is unique. Some may naturally adjust to longer sleep stretches earlier than others. By tuning in to your baby’s individual cues and rhythms, you can tailor their feeding and sleeping patterns to match their needs.

1) Hunger Signs:

Signs that your baby is ready for a meal might include lip smacking, rooting (turning their head towards the breast or bottle), or putting their tiny fists in their mouth. Recognizing these hunger cues enables you to respond promptly and feed your frantic baby before they become too agitated or upset.

2) Sleep Cues:

Babies also have indicators that they’re ready for some slumber. Look for signs like yawning, rubbing their eyes, or becoming a bit more fussy and less engaged with their surroundings. When you notice these sleep cues, it’s a great time to help your baby settle into a peaceful nap or bedtime.

How to Wake Your Newborn for Feedings

Waking a peacefully sleeping newborn for feedings can be a delicate task. Here are some gentle methods that can help ensure a smooth transition from sleep to feeding:

1. Time it Right: Wake your baby during REM sleep when they flutter their eyelids, smile, or clench their tiny fists.
2. Skin-to-Skin Contact: Undress both you and your baby, then snuggle them against your tummy and breast.
3. Upright Position: If needed, hold your baby upright and gently talk to them to encourage them to open their eyes.
4. Stimulate Hands and Feet: Gently stroke the palms of their hands and soles of their feet to awaken them.
5. Cool Cloth: Rub their face with a cool washcloth for a refreshing sensation that helps them open their eyes.

Confused about the right amount and frequency for feeding your baby formula? Our next article, ‘Baby Formula Feeding Chart: How Much and How Often Babies Eat‘ is your go-to guide. Click to find your baby’s perfect feeding schedule.

Important Considerations and Tips

Monitoring your newborn’s well-being and keeping a close eye on their weight gain serves as a tangible indicator of their nutrition. Frequent check-ups with your healthcare provider will allow you to track their growth and ensure they are thriving.

Additionally, pay attention to diaper changes. An increase in wet and soiled diapers signals that your baby is getting enough fluids and nourishment. However, if you ever have doubts about your newborn’s feeding or overall health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.