Breastfeeding is the best source of nourishment for infants and young children. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. However, for new mothers, the experience can be both physically and mentally overwhelming. Many parents may have questions about when to breastfeed, how long each session should last, and even concerns about whether it's possible to overfeed their baby. To address the same, the OnlyMyHealth team interacted with an expert.
Excessive Breastfeeding: Is There Such A Thing?
Excessive breastfeeding, by definition, refers to when a mother produces too much breast milk or when an infant overfeeds. Breastfeeding oversupply, also known as hyperlactation syndrome, occurs when a mother produces more milk than her baby needs.
In another instance, babies can overfeed on breast milk to the point that they start experiencing digestive symptoms like gas and bloating.
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However, according to Dr Dipali Patel, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, excessive breastfeeding is generally not a concern, as breastfed babies typically regulate their intake based on hunger and satiety.
"It is advised to feed your baby whenever they need to, particularly during the first few months of life, since this will ensure that they obtain the nutrition they require and promote the mother's milk supply. Babies have different eating habits, and comfort and bonding are enhanced by on-demand feeding," she says, adding that speaking with a doctor might be beneficial if worries about overfeeding emerge.
But again, it is important to note that overfeeding by breastfeeding is rare.
What Frequent Breastfeeding May Cause
While excessive breastfeeding is rare and is often not a concern, for some mothers, regular breastfeeding, especially in the first few weeks, can cause issues including sore nipples, engorgement, and exhaustion.
Dr Patel notes that dehydration or vitamin deficits can also arise from lengthy, frequent feeding without proper nourishment or relaxation.
But with the right nursing techniques, a lactation consultant's assistance, and self-care routines like drinking plenty of water, eating healthily, and getting enough sleep, these problems are frequently manageable, she advises, adding that in and of itself, breastfeeding has numerous health advantages, including lowered maternal cancer risk.
How Mothers Can Strike A Balance Between Breastfeeding And Solid Nutrition In Babies
The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. However, after six months, parents can start introducing solid foods to their babies. So, how can parents strike a balance between breastfeeding and solid nutrition?
Dr Patel recommends: “While continuing to breastfeed, gradually increase the variety and texture of solid foods so that babies can receive the necessary nutrients from both sources. That they don't force feed and instead provide balanced meals, mothers can begin with iron-rich foods and pay attention to their baby's indications. The baby's diet will gradually shift to include more solid foods, with breast milk serving as a source of extra calories.”
Also Read: Breastfeeding After 35: Expert List Tips to Keep Your Baby Healthy
When And How Long Should Mothers Breastfeed?
To ensure babies get proper nutrition from breastfeeding, parents should pay attention to their child’s needs. There are subtle signs that may indicate that your child is hungry and that they need to be breastfed. These include sucking on hands, rooting, or fussiness.
Additionally, the duration of each session is flexible and might range from 10 to 30 minutes. To ensure that the infant is feeding successfully and gaining weight, seeking individualised counsel from a lactation consultant or healthcare practitioner might be beneficial, concludes Dr Patel.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is an important aspect of every child’s growth and development. It is what ensures their nutritional needs during infancy, or at least for the first six months of life. For parents who are concerned about overfeeding their children, experts share that it is rare and babies often regulate their intake based on hunger and satiety. So, it is best to leave it on them and pay attention to the signs. Other subtle signs could be excessive spitting up, gas, fussiness, or pain following feeding, or rapid weight growth in some babies. However, it is best to consult a doctor if such problems arise.