Indian Baby Care | Faq about Breast Feeding | keep baby from falling asleep while breastfeeding

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FAQ » Faq about Breast Feeding

1. My baby has been sucking on and off for two hours. Each time I take her off the breast, she cries. When I latch her on again, she appears to suck very well for about a minute and then falls asleep. Do I have enough milk?

Your baby may be snacking. This means that she may be taking small amounts of feed each time whilst also using you as a pacifier. Try to:

Ensure that baby is hungry and awake before feeding her.
Ensure that baby is properly latched on and is awake during the whole feeding.
Try to encourage baby to finish each feed within 30 to 40 minutes.
Encourage calm or sleep time between feeding intervals.
Ensure mother gets enough rest and has plenty of nourishing fluids.

2. How do I keep baby from falling asleep while breastfeeding?

Ensure that baby is not wrapped up or swaddled while feeding
Keep baby awake by gently tickling baby’s feet or stroking baby’s face when baby appears to be drowsy.
If baby appears to have fallen asleep, unlatch baby and try burping baby or changing her diaper if it is dirty. This will wake her up.

3. My baby wants to suckle to sleep. This makes my nipple very sore. Each time I unlatch her, she wakes up and cries until I put her to my breast. How can I stop baby from using me as a pacifier?

We understand how you feel. Encouraging baby to sleep on your breasts will not only make your nipples sore, your baby will also not only make your nipples sore, your baby will also always want you and your nipple in order to fall asleep. Try the following steps and be patient. It may take few attempts before you succeed but you will succeed if you persist.

Feed baby when she is hungry and fully awake.
Ensure that baby furnishes feeding properly by keeping her awake during the feed.
Once you are sure that your breasts are well drained and she has finished nursing, unlatch baby.
Place a thick towel over your chest, covering your breasts.
Hold baby close to your chest. Stay calm.
Gently rock or sway to help baby fall asleep.

4. What type of nursing bra should I wear?

Buy your nursing bra approximately 36 weeks into your pregnancy or after delivery.
Get your chest measured.
Get a well fitting bra with a full cup that supports the whole breast.
The bra straps should be broad to provide full support.
Under wired bras are not recommended as they obstruct the flow of milk.

5. I had an episode of mastitis recently and was treated with antibiotics. My friends told me that mastitis can recur, if that happens or if I develop a breast abscess will I have to stop breastfeeding my baby?

Mastitis can occur anytime while you are breastfeeding. Always ensure your breasts are well drained after each feed. If you feel that your breasts are lumpy or if you may have a blocked duct, unblock the ducts by following the Handy Tips in 'Blocked Ducts'. It may not be necessary to stop breastfeeding if you are being treated for a breast abscess. A visit to the lactation consultant will provide support and advice on future breastfeeding management.

6. Should I continue to breastfeed if have mastitis?

Yes, you should continue to breastfeed. In fact, doing it frequently will help unblock your ducts, but if you are also running a fever, do refer to your doctor.

7. Are leak-proof breast pads better than cotton breast pads?

Cotton breast pads are more appropriate for the tropics while leak-proof breast pads are more suitable for temperate climates.