#asktheexpert my baby is 3 months old and still she finds to difficult to drink 90 ml of milk, please tell is this concerning

Question

Accepted Answer

It’s not uncommon for a 3-month-old baby to have variations in their milk intake, as each baby’s appetite and needs are different. However, if your baby is finding it difficult to drink 90 ml (3 ounces) of milk at a time, here’s what you need to consider:

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What to Check:

1. Weight Gain and Growth:

The most important indicator of whether your baby is getting enough milk is steady weight gain and growth.

If your baby is gaining weight consistently and appears healthy, there is likely no cause for concern.

2. Wet and Dirty Diapers:

A well-fed baby should have 6–8 wet diapers per day and regular bowel movements (frequency may vary).

3. Signs of Fullness:

Babies often stop feeding or turn away from the bottle or breast when they are full. Forcing them to drink more than they want can lead to discomfort.

4. Feeding Frequency:

At 3 months, babies typically feed every 2–4 hours and consume 60–120 ml (2–4 ounces) per feed.

If your baby is feeding frequently, the total daily intake may be adequate even if she drinks less per feeding.

5. Milk Type and Flow:

For Formula-Fed Babies: Ensure the formula is prepared correctly.

Bottle Feeding: Check if the bottle’s nipple flow is suitable. A slow-flow nipple might make feeding difficult, while a fast-flow nipple might overwhelm the baby.

6. Feeding Environment:

Ensure a calm, quiet environment during feedings to minimize distractions.

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When to Be Concerned:

Consult your pediatrician if:

Your baby is not gaining weight or has lost weight.

There are fewer than 6 wet diapers per day.

The baby is lethargic, irritable, or refuses to feed consistently.

There are signs of reflux (spitting up frequently or discomfort after feeding).

Feeding takes an excessively long time (more than 30 minutes per session).

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Tips to Encourage Feeding:

1. Smaller, Frequent Feeds:

Offer smaller amounts of milk more frequently (e.g., 60 ml every 2 hours instead of 90 ml every 3 hours).

2. Burp Often:

Burp your baby during and after feeds to reduce gas and discomfort.

3. Check for Congestion:

If your baby has a stuffy nose, it might interfere with feeding. Use saline drops and a nasal aspirator if needed.

4. Skin-to-Skin Contact:

Hold your baby close and provide skin-to-skin contact during feeding to help her feel comfortable and secure.

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Conclusion:

If your baby is growing well, seems content, and has enough wet diapers, drinking less than 90 ml per feed is usually not a concern. However, if you notice any signs of poor growth or discomfort, consult your pediatrician for a detailed evaluation. Let me know if you need further help!