My baby is 3.5 months old but just gained 1.3kgs in these months also she spits up milk after every feed is it normal ? And how to make her gain weight , I am exclusively breastfeeding?

Question

Accepted Answer

### Weight Gain Foods for a 3.5-Month-Old Baby

At 3.5 months, exclusive breastfeeding is the recommended practice. Introducing solids is generally not advised until around 6 months of age, as per guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Breast milk provides all the necessary nutrients and calories needed for a baby’s growth and development at this stage.

### Addressing Spitting Up

Spitting up is common in young infants and is usually not a cause for concern if the baby is otherwise healthy, gaining weight, and feeding well. Here are some tips to help reduce spitting up:

1. **Feed in an Upright Position**
   - Keep the baby upright during feeding and for about 20-30 minutes after feeding to help reduce spitting up.

2. **Burp Frequently**
   - Burp your baby after feeding and during feeding breaks to release any trapped air.

3. **Smaller, More Frequent Feedings**
   - Offer smaller amounts of milk more frequently to avoid overfeeding.

4. **Check Latch**
   - Ensure a proper latch to prevent the baby from swallowing too much air.

5. **Avoid Active Play Post-Feeding**
   - Keep your baby calm and avoid vigorous activity immediately after feeding.

### When to Worry

If your baby is experiencing the following, consult your pediatrician:

- Poor weight gain or weight loss
- Vomiting forcefully or frequently
- Blood in spit-up
- Refusal to feed

### Promoting Healthy Weight Gain

1. **Frequent Breastfeeding**
   - Ensure your baby is breastfeeding on demand, usually every 2-3 hours.

2. **Ensure Efficient Feeding**
   - Make sure the baby is latching well and getting enough milk during each feed. You can check for signs like swallowing sounds and milk dribbling from the mouth.

3. **Monitor Growth**
   - Regularly track your baby's weight and growth with your pediatrician to ensure she is growing adequately.

4. **Comfort and Security**
   - A calm and comfortable feeding environment helps your baby feed more effectively.

### Conclusion

At 3.5 months, focus on exclusive breastfeeding, ensure proper feeding techniques, and monitor your baby's growth. Spitting up is generally normal but should be addressed with small adjustments in feeding practices. Always consult your pediatrician for personalized advice and if you have concerns about your baby's growth and feeding habits.