What is Cluster Feeding and How To Manage Cluster Feeding

Explanation for Cluster Feeding

Cluster feeding is a term used to describe when a breastfed baby will want to nurse multiple times in a row. It is a completely normal phase where your baby feeds more frequently, because they’re going through a growth spurt. Cluster feeding allows your baby to “tank up” and get ready for longer night sleep. It also signals your body to ramp up milk production during growth spurts. Kelly Bonyata, BS and IBCLC from the ever popular website KellyMom, says this, “Cluster feeding, also called bunch feeding, is when babies space their shorter feeds within a short period of time.” Cluster feeding is when your baby feeds closer together at specific times in the day and then has longer stretches where they don't feed. The growing business can be tough for little ones. Your baby, at any given point, may seem insatiable while you're nursing. Cluster feeding is also an opportune time to begin tackling the never-ending stack of thank you notes that continue piling up long after you have a baby.

Cluster feeding can be worrisome to breastfeeding moms because they are not sure their babies are getting enough to eat or that there is something wrong. Though this isn't true for all pairings, a baby may need to nurse from her mom more in the evening because she could be going through a growth spurt. Growth spurts, as we write about, can cause babies to be hungrier than usual. This is why it is important to understand what cluster feeding is and how to handle it.

Aside from understanding what causes cluster feeding, it is also important to know how to deal with it. The most important thing to remember during cluster feeding is that it’s completely normal. Don’t try to stop the cluster feed. Rather, let baby feed as often as they need to and want to. It is also important to ask for assistance when needed, make sure to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest beforehand, plan ahead, and plan to cluster feed in front of the TV.

Symptoms of Cluster Feeding

Symptoms of cluster feeding include acting frustrated during feedings, searching for the nipple when it's right in front of them or latching on and off, acting fussy or irritable, nursing for short periods, and wanting to nurse more often, especially in the evenings. Other signs that your baby may be cluster feeding include mouthing, nuzzling against your breasts or chest, increased alertness, smacking their lips, or opening their mouth and rooting around for the nipple.

Tips Manage Cluster Feeding

Cluster feeding, also known as bunch feeding, is a feeding pattern where a baby needs short, frequent feeds over a period of several hours. This is a normal behavior for newborns and can occur between three weeks to six weeks of life, usually in the evening or late afternoon. It can last up to six months of age. To manage cluster feeding, it is important for mothers to stay hydrated and nourished during this time. Keeping a large bottle of water and snacks near the mother is a helpful way to do this. Creating a breastfeeding station with comfortable seating and dimmed lighting can also help to reduce external stimuli and make the baby feel calmer. Additionally, mothers can take advantage of non-feeding time by involving other family members in taking care of the baby or expressing milk to feed the baby while they take a break. Finally, it is important to remain patient and seek medical help if needed to ensure adequate milk supply and proper weight gain.

Conclusion

Cluster feeding is a completely normal phase in a baby's life and it is important to understand it to ensure that both the baby and the mother are safe and healthy.