Counsellors with BMSG often encounter mummies who worry because their newborn infants are sleepy and often fall asleep shortly after starting a feeding session. Of course, they wonder if their babies are getting enough milk.
Truth is, it really might be hard to tell. An average newborn might take up to 40 minutes per feeding session. Although there are infants who take 10 minutes at the breast and seem to be gaining weight. Often it has to do with milk supply. Some mummies are just blessed with abundant milk. Most of us have to work hard to get our supply established. So, mummies, you are quite normal.
Babies are sleepy for several reasons, not least also because many moms are going through labour and delivery with various drugs in their systems. This does affect the baby. Remember that baby being so small, the effect of the drug in their systems takes longer to clear.
Whilst it would be best for moms to go through natural deliveries and births, that is a decision only a mom can make. Then there are moms who have to go through C-section operations to deliver. If there is no medical need to do so, it is best to leave it to nature. C-section operations are major operations and requires layers of stitching thereafter. Natural deliveries without drugs allow mom and baby to be alert and better able to breastfeed.
So, you do have a sleepy baby.... what can you do?
Often, we find that the usual tickling methods do not seem to work. If baby wants to sleep, it doesn't stop them! Undressing them might.... After all, who wants to be left out cold and naked?!
There is a method which you may wish to try...
BREAST COMPRESSION
Essentially, you hold your breast with a C-cup hold with your thumb on one side of your breast and the rest of your fingers on the opposite side. Squeeze your breast, as close to the chest wall as possible. This causes your milk to squirt out and forces it into your baby's mouth. Babies have to swallow. Release your hold on your breast gently. Do not release it suddenly or your milk might gush forcefully into your baby's mouth, causing your baby to choke.
As for pumping mothers, try this technique whilst pumping. It works!
