Expert: Sue Ennis - 8/3/2007

Question
My first baby is now seven and half weeks old.  She was born a little early and has been rapidly gaining weight and successfully breastfeeding.  She was in the 20% for weight on June 19 and the 86% on August 1.

During July she began progressively throwing up more often - every few days and now every day (sometimes twice a day).  She throws up what appears to be 2-3 oz. (sometimes less, sometimes more) - it's hard to tell how much.  The Doctor diagnosed her with Reflux and prescribed Zantac (which she just started last night).

Anyway, during the last week (since the throwing up has climaxed) she has begun nursing for much shorter intervals.  She used to regularly nurse about 16-23 minutes on one breast almost like clockwork every 3 hours.

The past few days she nurses just 4-9 minutes and then goes to sleep. And she doesn't always want to nurse at three hours either.  Last night she went 4 hours 15 minutes, woke up and nursed 4 minutes, then slept another 4 hours.

We're nursing in a new inclined position to help prevent the throwing up.

I am worried about her lack of hunger - she used to feed so well.  Her diapers are still regular wet and poopy (though they're not as frequent as they were).

I have a strong let down and good milk supply.  How long should a 7 and half week old infant nurse?  is she just that much more efficient or is this a sign of her starting to refuse to nurse?

Answer
Hello Jessica - I also have one that's a spitter and as the doctor says, it's not a problem other than more laundry. But seriously with your child weight gain between June & August, that's the telling sign that your daughter is getting what she needs and in terms of her nursing cycle, I'm going to have you ask another breastfeeding specialist, as I mainly support women seeking engorgement relief or others that are weaning...also a lactation consultant in your area can work with you too...typically your docotor can recommend one...beacuse if you've changed your nursing position, it may have changed the way your baby latching on, but they can go thru with you in detail.  Good luck and all the best!