Establishing a Feeding Routine for Your Newborn: A Guide
Feeding your newborn can feel overwhelming at first. Establishing a routine can bring a sense of predictability and comfort to both you and your baby. Understanding Newborn Feeding Cues: Newborns communicate their hunger through various cues: Rooting: Turning their head and opening their mouth when touched near their cheek. Sucking: Making sucking motions with their lips. Crying: Often a late-stage hunger cue. Feeding Frequency: Newborns typically feed every 2-3 hours, but this can vary significantly. Types of Feeding: Breastfeeding: Offers numerous health benefits for both mother and baby. Bottle-feeding: Provides flexibility and allows for easier sharing of feeding duties. Tips for Establishing a Feeding Routine: Feed on Demand: Respond to your baby's hunger cues promptly. Create a Calm Environment: Minimize distractions and ensure a comfortable feeding space. Burp Frequently: Burp your baby during and after feedings to release trapped air. Skin-to-Skin Conta...