Feeding problems your baby could have
Feeding can be difficult for your baby to get the hang of at first, and although it’s a very natural thing for all of us to do, your baby’s brand new to it! However, sometimes there can be other reasons behind feeding problems which can affect your baby’s appetite or the way they absorb food and vital nutrients.
Here are some common feeding problems and the signs which will help you to identify them.
Colic
You'll recognise colic by your baby having a flushed face, clenched fists, and legs pulled up to the chest with 2 - 3 hour spells of loud crying. It can often happen as little as 15 minutes after feeding, but can happen at any time during the first few weeks. It’s very common and occurs in up to one in four young babies. Find out more about colic and what you can do to relieve it here.
Crying before feeding
More often than not, if your baby is crying before you feed them it will simply be due to hunger. As you get to know your baby you’ll begin to understand what their different cries mean.
Crying after feeding
More often than not, if your baby is crying after feeding it’s likely to be due to wind or colic. It’s really important to burp your baby properly after every feed .
Weight changes
It’s natural for your baby to lose some weight after birth but they should then start to steadily put it back on. However, all babies are different and will tend to do this at different rates. The important thing is not to worry, but talk with your health care professional who will monitor your baby’s weight gain.
Vomiting
It’s quite normal for your baby to bring up a little milk after feeding - this is known as spilling. However if they do this very regularly and it’s more than just a little amount, it may be an indicator of something else. Speak with your health care professional if you are at all concerned.
Changes in bowel motions
If you’ve got concerns about your baby’s bowel motions, whether it’s too much or too little, or seems strange in any way, read our article on stools and if you still have any concerns speak to your health care professional.