Cluster Feeding: Everything New Parents Need to Know
Welcome to the newborn world of cluster feeding! Just when you are starting to find a rhythm with your new baby, they throw this exhausting curveball at you. And honestly, it can be hard not to think your baby is conspiring against you! Understanding what cluster feeding is all about and finding ways to survive it will help you better navigate this tricky time.
What is cluster feeding?
Before we dive into it, let’s be clear: cluster feeding is normal feeding behaviour for your baby! There is nothing wrong with you, with your baby or with your breastmilk. If unprepared, it can cause parents all kinds of stress and worry. By learning more about it, you can put your mind at ease and rest assured that you are not doing anything wrong. Cluster feeding is exactly what it sounds like; babies will bunch or “cluster” shorter feeds together over a period of time. Typically, newborns eat every 2-3 hours, but you can think of cluster feeding as constant snacking over several hours, instead of having one larger meal every few hours.
When and why does cluster feeding happen?
Every baby is different when it comes to their feeding behaviour and there is not one answer for all babies. As parents we often want to play detective and try to figure out our baby’s every move, which can be hard to do. Some babies cluster feed simply because they enjoy it, and they may do it at some point every day or every few days. Most often, cluster feeding occurs during growth spurts which commonly happen around 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months of age.
Babies will often cluster feed in the afternoon or evening hours. This could be because the level of prolactin, the hormone involved in milk production, tends to drop in the afternoon and slows milk production. Your baby will respond by nursing longer or more often to secure their milk source, and “filling the tank” in preparation to sleep for a longer night stretch. Other babies will cluster feed just for comfort, not hunger. You are your baby’s safe place and newborns are wired to be close to their mothers. They feel safe and relaxed with you and are comforted by nursing, especially during times of illness or teething.
Does cluster feeding mean I have low milk supply?
Many new moms often wonder if their baby’s cluster feeding is a sign of low milk supply, and this causes extra stress, frustration, and anxiety. Cluster feeding is generally not associated with low milk supply, and although exhausting, helps boost and maintain your supply. Your breastmilk provides your baby with exactly what they need and when: more nutrients during a growth spurt, and antibodies when they are sick, for example. Tracking your baby’s weight gain and output will tell you if they are getting enough to eat, and a lactation consultant can help you with concerns of low supply.
How can I manage cluster feeding?
Here are 7 tips that will help you get through tough periods of cluster feeding:
Follow your baby’s cues and feed on demand. They may have many short feeds and sleep in between or stay latched at the breast for longer stretches.
Get plenty to eat and drink. It helps if you have some nutritious one-handed snacks prepared for quick and easy access.
Get comfortable. Take time to set up your feeding space with comfortable pillows and/or blankets. Find a favourite spot to nurse in and choose positioning that works well for you.
Get to know your baby’s patterns and take time for yourself. If you know your baby will likely be cluster feeding between 6-10pm, take time beforehand to go for a walk, take a bath, exercise, spend time with family or anything else that brings you joy.
Take care of your breasts and nipples. Even during times of cluster feeding you shouldn’t be experiencing any pain or discomfort with feeding. Using nipple creams and compresses can help you stay comfortable, and always reach out to a lactation consultant if you are experiencing pain or other issues.
Get support. Cluster feeding can be physically and emotionally taxing and is made worse when you are thinking of everything else you need to get done. Lean on your partner, family members or other community members to help with other tasks like meal prep, laundry, cleaning, and childcare.
Anticipate it and embrace it! Remind yourself that cluster feeding doesn’t last forever and if you know what to expect you can anticipate it better. Use the time to soak in extra snuggles, read a book or binge watch your favourite TV series.
Cluster feeding can be extremely tiring and frustrating for the entire family, but especially on the breastfeeding parent. Rest assured that there is a light at the end of the tunnel! Cluster feeding is only temporary, and all babies tend to go through periods of it. If you are looking for support on your feeding journey, reach out today. You are not alone, mama!
