Cluster Feeding
Why your baby wants to feed constantly and how to survive it
What Is Cluster Feeding?
Cluster feeding is when a baby wants to feed very frequently, sometimes every 20 to 30 minutes, for a period of several hours. It usually happens in the late afternoon or evening. Cluster feeding is normal, temporary, and not a sign that something is wrong with your milk supply or your baby. It is a developmental phase that most breastfed babies go through in the first weeks and months.
Why Babies Cluster Feed
Cluster feeding serves several purposes. It helps increase milk supply during growth spurts, the baby's frequent sucking signals the body to produce more milk. It helps the baby stock up before a longer sleep period. It also provides comfort and closeness during times of rapid neurological development. Cluster feeding episodes often coincide with growth spurts at around 2 to 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months.
What Cluster Feeding Looks Like
How to Survive Cluster Feeding
When to Call the Doctor
Cluster feeding itself is normal and does not require a call to the doctor. Call if: the baby has fewer than 6 wet diapers per day, the baby is not gaining weight, the baby is unusually lethargic or hard to wake for feeds, or your partner is in serious pain from feeding. If you are concerned about milk supply, a lactation consultant can help.
Resources
The American Academy of Pediatrics has information on feeding cues and growth spurts at HealthyChildren.org. La Leche League also has resources on cluster feeding and normal newborn behavior.