Another breastfeeding question! When feeding every 2-3 hours, is that from when you started feeding or ended?

Question

I know everyone says there's no need for a schedule, but my situation is a little different. I have a preemie, so doc says I must wake her to feed every 2-3 hours. I've been timing them from the start time, but should I be doing it from when the feeding ended?? Thanks :)

Answer 1

they say from the starting time (which sucks for us!)

Answer 2

Well, you should just learn what your baby wants.

But I would probably go from the end time if you are wanting a schedule.

Answer 3

I time from the start. I have had all jaundice babies so had to feed them that often too.

Answer 4

I would do it from the end time, but it would be better to double check with your doctor.

Answer 5

It is from when you started the last feeding. I just had my third baby 10 days ago. Though she isn't a preemie I too am still waking her up every three hours to nurse. I know that she would go longer stretches at night but I want to build not only a good milk supply but also a great nursing relationship with her. When she is a bit older I will let her sleep longer at night and do the "nurse on demand" thing during the day (which we pretty much do now.) I did this with both of my other children and had great nursing experiences with both of them for 18 months each. It's going to be hard ( I won't lie) but it is so worth it to stick with the nursing. Good luck!  

Answer 6

ended

Answer 7

Its from the time you start feeding. thats the hard part with breast feeding, by the time you finish, its almost time to do it again, but stay with it and good luck!

Answer 8

There is no real consensus on this BUT most doctors mean from the start of one feed to the start of the other -mostly because the time it takes a preemie to nurse is so different (well and other babies as well).

Breastfeeding your Premature Infant - Resources

http://www.kellymom.com/bf/preemie/preem...

Answer 9

Hi -

I think I recall being told that you record your time from when the feeding started......which didn't make sense to me!  Preemies tend to be sleepy so sometimes keeping them awake to feed is tough.

Answer 10

When my midwife asked me how often I fed you are suppose to count from the time you starting nursing...I try not to worry about timing my feedings and I feed my son on demand and it seems to be working perfect for us..He is growing perfectly and is a nice big boy!! But since your baby is a preemie you must wake them up every 2-3 hours from when you previously began..If you have trouble keeping your baby awake to nurse try underssing them or tickling there feet...It is going to be a full-time job but you are giving your preemie the best start in life that you can and breastfeeding will get easier