Infant Growth Spurt
(Perceived Low Milk Supply)

Infant growth spurts occur in normal healthy infants who are gaining weight.

The growth spurts occur most commonly in the first three months, often at 2-3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 2 months. Infant growth spurts are characterized by:

The following measures are recommended during a growth spurt:

• Check with your primary care provider to be certain baby is healthy.
• Be certain infant is properly positioned/attached.
• Continue to feed frequently: as often as the baby indicates hunger (rooting reflex).
This may be 12-15 times or more per 24 hours.
• If baby seems hungry after feeding, apply warm compress to breasts and massage them - then put baby to breast.
• DO NOT GIVE ANY OTHER LIQUIDS OR FOODS.
• If possible, get some extra help and support with household duties.
• The growth spurt may last 2-7 days, after which the baby seems content with 8-12 feeds/24 hours.
• Infant should always be having over 5 wet diapers per 24 hours.

If the baby starts refusing the breast or the situation does not improve in 5 days, or infant is not urinating 5 or more times in 24 hours
call LRMC Pediatrics at 06371-86-8191/DSN 486-8191
or contact your healthcare provider.

Important: The information on this sheet should NOT be used without the direct supervision of a licensed medical provider.

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MECHANICAL MILK EXPRESSION
MECHEXPR.HNE: 10/22/96