It depends on how much milk your baby has consumed. If a newborn falls asleep soon after latching and has clearly not gotten much milk, then yes, you should wake them to relatch and try again.
Understanding Baby Feeding and Sleep
It's common for babies to fall asleep during feeds, particularly newborns. However, this can be concerning for parents who are unsure if their baby has consumed enough milk. Here's a breakdown to help you navigate these moments:
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Newborns and Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can be tiring for both the mother and the baby, especially in the early days. It's not uncommon for newborns to drift off to sleep shortly after starting.
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Importance of Effective Feeding: Ensuring your baby gets adequate milk during feeding sessions is crucial for their growth and development.
When to Wake Your Baby
Based on the provided reference, here's when you should consider waking your baby:
- Early Sleep During Feed: If your newborn falls asleep very quickly after latching and before getting a significant amount of milk, it's best to wake them up.
- Not Enough Milk Consumed: The main indicator is if your baby is showing signs of not having consumed enough milk before falling asleep.
How to Gently Wake Your Baby
- Change the Diaper: The change in position can wake a sleeping baby gently.
- Gently Rub the Baby's Back: A soft, light rub might be enough.
- Stroke the Baby's Head or Face: Use a gentle stroking motion on their face.
- Switch Sides: Change the baby to the other breast and try to latch again.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Patience: You may need to gently wake your baby several times during a single feeding session, especially in the initial days.
- Learning Curve: Both you and your baby are learning how to navigate feeding sessions. Don't feel frustrated; it will get easier with time.
- Professional Advice: If you are concerned that your baby is not gaining enough weight or not feeding effectively, seek advice from a lactation consultant or pediatrician.
Summary
Here is a quick guide:
| Situation | Action |
|---|---|
| Baby falls asleep very early in the feeding session. | Wake up the baby gently and try to get them to relatch and feed more. |
| Baby has finished feeding and then falls asleep. | No need to wake up the baby. Let them rest. |
| Baby is falling asleep often during feeds and not gaining enough weight. | Consult a lactation consultant or a pediatrician. |
