Keeping The Baby Awake While Breastfeeding

‍Newborns sleep a lot! That's good unless it gets in the way of proper feeding.

‍

Every breastfeeding mom can relate to this, the baby falls asleep while getting fed. It’s common because the comfort and soothing that breastfeeding provides a baby, can sometimes make it difficult for the baby to stay awake.

‍

‍So the big question is how can you keep your newborn from falling asleep too soon into a feeding?

Here are a few tips on keeping baby awake during feeds:

‍

Best Pediatric Doctor In Gurgaon. Available Now!

‍

Wipe the baby’s face with a cool, damp cloth.
Change the diaper halfway through a feed.
Try tickling your baby behind the ear, on the feet or at the neck. Just touching the baby gently on the arms, legs or ears can wake him/her again.

Give the baby a bright, colourful toy to keep him/her engaged and awake while breastfeeding or put some music on, just loud enough to wake the baby.
Rub baby’s back or just massage baby's palms in a circle with your thumb.
Bicycle baby's legs and arms.
Switch sides, it's a good technique, especially with newborns.
Burp the baby, it will ensure that the baby is more awake and ready to feed.
You can also talk and sing to the baby.

‍

Do you want to know the "Estimated date of when your baby is due?" Check out Cloudnine's Pregnancy Due Date Calculator now!

‍

Follow all of the above tips and tricks to keep your newborn awake for breastfeeding. If your baby is still sleeping while breastfeeding, even after trying all the above, and you are worried that your baby is not drinking enough, you can always contact your lactation consultant or paediatrician.

‍

Know more- Breastfeeding Diet For Nursing Moms.

‍

Want to consult the Best Pediatricians in India? Please find the links below.

‍

Get the right solution today

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Maternity

Gynaecology

Fertility

Neonatal Care

Paediatric Care

NICU

PICU

Radiology

Physiotherapy

Nutrition and Dietetics

Breastfeeding Support

Allied Services

Stem Cell Banking

Bengaluru

Chandigarh

Chennai

Faridabad

Ghaziabad

Gurugram

Hyderabad

Jalandhar

Lucknow

Ludhiana

Mumbai

New Delhi

Noida

Panchkula

Pune

Role of Traditional Playground in Child’s Physical Development

Bathing an Infant: 10 Tips to Make Life Easier for New Moms

My Baby Can Walk The Walk

Recent Articles

Immunological Causes of Infertility

Travel Health Tips for Kids

Partial Molar Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Should my baby be awake when breastfeeding?

Babies need to stay awake in order to feed well. When a baby gets sleepy, they may stop sucking too soon. They may not consume enough milk as a result. Keeping your baby alert helps them feed longer and get the milk they need.

Why is my baby so sleepy while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding feels warm and safe for your baby. Being close to you and sucking gently helps them relax. This makes many babies fall asleep before they finish feeding. This happens often with newborns and is normal.

Should I offer a second breast if baby is asleep?

Switching to the other breast can help wake your baby and encourage feeding. This often results in stronger sucking, longer feeds, and ensures both breasts are emptied.

Why does breastmilk make my baby so sleepy?

Breastmilk and feeding sessions help infants feel calm and secure. The warmth and closeness help them relax. As a result, many babies fall asleep while feeding. This is common, especially in newborns.