Suddenly, your baby wants to feed constantly, is more irritated and fuzzy, cries, and seems to want to feed constantly but is struggling at the breast. And maybe you are thinking: am I running out of milk? 

But wait… maybe your baby is going through a breastfeeding crisis!

Babies usually go through several growth spurts (some call them frequency days; in some regions, they are called breastfeeding crises) during the first 12 months of life, when their demand for milk typically increases. This can cause them to wake up more often and want to breastfeed all the time. In addition, babies may cry more, be fuzzy, fight with breastfeeding, stretch their legs, and arch their back while feeding.

If that is not enough, you may also notice that your breasts feel softer at some point. This is perfectly normal. Remember, breast milk does not disappear all of a sudden!

Growing up and developing is not the only reason babies may need to breastfeed more for a while or be fussier. They may show the same behavior when they experience developmental milestones: when they learn to roll over and crawl or when they start walking or talking.

When do breastfeeding crises occur?

Breastfeeding crises or growth spurts usually appear on the second day of birth and around 15-20 days, at 6 or 7 weeks, at 3 months, and at many other times: at 4 and 8 months of age, at 1 year, and at 2 years. Actually, at all critical times of the baby’s development. However, remember that each baby has their own pace, and these dates are always approximate; your baby can experience them at any time of their growth.

How long do they last?

Growth spurts usually last between 2 and 3 days, but sometimes they can last a week or more, as in the 3-month growth spurt.

What should I do?

Follow your baby’s lead and breastfeed as often as he or she needs to: breastfeeding directly at the breast more often will automatically bring in more breast milk and cause your milk supply to increase quickly. Supplementing your baby with formula or pumped breastmilk is not advisable or recommended, as supplements and bottles can interfere with your milk supply, preventing your body from receiving the message that more breast milk should be produced. Sometimes, it may result in your baby not wanting to breastfeed anymore. Above all, you will need tons of patience and love; remember, nothing lasts forever!

How do I know if my baby is going through a growth spurt or if there is any other problem?

If your baby is gaining weight as normally expected, the higher demand for breastfeeding and the increased fussiness are probably just due to a growth spurt.

But if your baby has difficulties with gaining weight properly or is showing signs of pain or discomfort, it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare professional or pediatrician.

¿Do you need advice?

You can find us in the Consultation Channel of the LactApp app, which is free to download for iPhone and Android.