Cluster feeding is a time when your baby will want short feedings for quite a few hours(there is an end, I promise). This is very normal in the first few months of your baby’s life. This is most common with breastfeeding. Your baby will start to cluster feed while he/she is going through a growth spurt and they need that extra milk. This makes it to where your body will produce more milk for your growning baby. It’s more common for you baby to start the cluster feeding in the early evening but, it can happen at anytime(my son cluster fed from 10pm-7am for about a week). Usually but, not always, is followed by a longer sleep period.
Usually you will notice your baby being fussy. He/she will nurse for a few minutes, fuss/cry, nurse for a few minutes, fuss/cry and continue like this for hours.
I remember being frustrated. Not with my son but, with myself. I thought to myself, “Is there something wrong with me or my milk? Does he have a good latch? Did I eat/drink something that made his tummy upset? Is it gas? Am I producing enough?” I felt like I was failing. I remember telling my SO, “I think we might have to switch to formula.” I was devastated. Until I talk to my lactation consultant and she told me all about cluster feeding.
Trust me, IT’S NORMAL! It has nothing to do with you or your milk. Think about the rest of the day before this started. Was baby happy? We’re they satisfied after feedings? If the answer is yes then you’re good momma! Just do your best to comfort your sweet baby.
How to survive cluster feeding
•Have help! I can’t stress this enough. Whether it be a parent, SO or friend. Have someone take baby so you can eat, shower, nap, or just have some you time. During the cluster feeding time you can have someone bring you food, water or anything you need. But while baby is not cluster feeding let someone help you so you can regroup and prepare for the next cluster feeding.
•DON’T SUPPLEMENT! This only tells your body that you need to produce less milk during this time.
•Keep baby with you. During the cluster feeding just keep baby on/with you. Find a good show on Netflix and just relax.
•SNACKS! Stock up on snack and water and keep them by you. I have a couch with a little storage area. I always had 3 water bottles and whatever snacks I wanted to get me through the cluster feeding time.
•Move around. If baby is not happy with just sitting still try walking around. Bouncing/rocking or trying going on a little car ride.
•Sound. Try playing some music or sing to them. My son liked the sound of the TV. You can also try a white noise machine or running a fan.
•Swaddle. Try swaddling baby nice and tight(not too tight). This also help comfort my son.
Other helpful websites
https://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com/article/94/how-to-manage-cluster-feeding-and-fussy-evenings
https://www.whattoexpect.com/first-year/breastfeeding/cluster-feeding/
ParentSquad 