#asktheexpert
hello sir, my baby is 3 month old, but takes less feed, every time takes feed only for 10 to 15 min, baby wt at birth 2.8 kg now 6 kg, is there any medicine or other way for increase appetite

Question

#asktheexpert 
hello sir, my baby is 3 month old, but takes less feed, every time takes feed only for 10 to 15 min, baby wt at birth 2.8 kg now 6 kg, is there any medicine  or other way for increase appetite

Accepted Answer

At 3 months old, it's common for babies to have varying feeding patterns, but ensuring they get adequate nutrition is crucial. Here’s what you can do if your baby is feeding for only 10 to 15 minutes per session:

**1. Monitor Feeding Patterns:

Frequency: Ensure your baby is feeding frequently enough (usually every 2-4 hours for a 3-month-old).

Signs of Hunger: Look for signs that your baby is hungry and feeding well during those shorter sessions. Babies often self-regulate their intake.

**2. Check Feeding Technique:

Latch and Position: Ensure the baby has a good latch and is positioned comfortably during breastfeeding. A poor latch can lead to shorter, less effective feedings.

**3. Breastfeeding Tips:

Offer Both Sides: Offer both breasts during each feeding session to help increase the total feeding time and ensure your baby gets both foremilk and hindmilk.

Skin-to-Skin Contact: Increase skin-to-skin contact to stimulate feeding and promote bonding.

**4. Consult a Pediatrician:

Growth Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your pediatrician will help monitor your baby’s growth and weight gain. Your pediatrician can assess if the feeding pattern is adequate or if any additional steps are needed.

Rule Out Issues: The pediatrician can rule out any underlying issues, such as feeding difficulties or digestive problems.

**5. Increase Appetite:

No Medications: At this age, there are no specific medications to increase appetite, and any concerns about appetite should be addressed through dietary adjustments and medical advice.

**6. Track Growth:

Growth Charts: Keep track of your baby’s weight and growth using standard growth charts. A weight gain of 3.2 kg from birth to 3 months is within a typical range but should be monitored by your pediatrician.

**7. Feeding Alternatives:

Bottle-feeding: If you are supplementing with formula, ensure the formula is prepared correctly and consider consulting a pediatrician about the feeding amount and frequency.

**8. Comfort and Calm:

Create a Calm Environment: Ensure a quiet, comfortable environment during feeding times to help your baby relax and feed better.

If your baby’s feeding duration remains consistently short and you have concerns about weight gain or overall health, a thorough evaluation by a pediatrician is essential. They can provide personalized advice and address any specific issues your baby may be experiencing.

#asktheexpert hello sir, my baby is 3 month old, but takes less feed, every time takes feed only for 10 to 15 min, baby wt at birth 2.8 kg now 6 kg, is there any medicine or other way for increase appetite