Breastfeeding - Cluster Feeding

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Cluster feeding

Cluster feeding is when your baby wants to feed very often at certain times followed by long gaps without feeding.

For example, your baby may want to feed a lot in the evening but not as much during the day.

This behaviour is common, especially during times of growth spurts. Your baby will go through many growth spurts in the first year. Each usually lasts a few days.

Why it happens

Cluster feeding can be very tiring. It is more common in newborns, but older babies can also cluster feed. It usually happens when they are approaching a growth spurt.

During growth spurts, your baby will need to breastfeed more often. This does not mean that your baby is not getting enough. You will produce more milk in response to your baby's growing needs.

If your baby is producing plenty of wet and dirty nappies and gaining weight, there is no need to worry. Cluster feeding is often a normal part of you and your baby’s breastfeeding journey.

Breastfeeding during growth spurts

Information:

You can also cluster feed if your baby is bottle-fed (breast milk or formula). But it is important not to overfeed your baby.

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Adjust your routine

Cluster feeding is especially common in the evenings. Some babies cluster feed for 2 to 3 hours before they settle and go to sleep.

If your baby has a particular time they like to cluster feed, it can be helpful to change your routine to match theirs. If possible, make time to feed your baby at this time and rest when they have settled.

If your baby becomes unsettled (fussy)

Babies cry for lots of different reasons. It's normal for your baby to become unsettled during periods of cluster feeding.

This is not a sign that you do not have enough milk for your baby, or that your baby needs extra bottle feeds to settle.

There are things you can do to cope with fussy feeding.

Do

• be aware that this is normal behaviour which will pass

• give your baby cuddles and comfort

• use skin-to-skin contact

• wind your baby carefully after feedings

• keep them upright if they are unsettled

• feed in response to your baby's cues, rather than sticking to a schedule

• ask family and friends to help with household jobs or mind older children

• plan an afternoon nap while your baby is sleeping

• make yourself as comfortable and relaxed as possible when breastfeeding

• eat well - you might be hungrier and thirstier during your baby's growth spurt

• change feeding positions

• go for a walk with your baby in a sling

Getting support

It can be difficult to breastfeed when your baby is cluster feeding - especially if you're caring for other children.

Do not be afraid to ask for help from your family and friends.

You can also get in touch with your local breastfeeding support group. Other mothers can often give helpful practical advice.