Cluster feeding is also referred to bunch feeding. It is when a baby wants to feed for a long period of time, or a baby feeds and shortly after feeding wants to feed again; this can happen at a certain time of the day.
 
Cluster feeding is normally associated with evening times and a baby displaying fussy behavior. After Cluster feeding in the evening, babies can sleep for a longer period of time over night, but not always. Cluster feeding is normal, once baby is developing accordingly and does not appear to be in any pain.
 
Cluster feeding is associated with a baby’s need for small quantities of breast milk over longer periods of time. It is normally combined with plenty of holding, cuddling and soft movement. Cluster feeding is also associated with babies going through growth spurts. The article Breastfeeding: 7 ways to tell if baby is getting enough milk will help you to understand your baby’s development and growth spurts.
 
The cause of cluster feeding is unknown. Research has suggested it is to do with baby helping the milk production and boosting the milk supply, or baby taking the low-volume high-fat containing milk in the evening time, to prepare for a longer sleep at night. Perhaps this could be a time when baby is utilising its two types of sucking: the feeding suck and the comfort suck. whereby, baby is receiving nutrition and comfort. The comfort suck is also known to have a calming effect on a baby and reduce crying.
 
Cluster feeding is not a sign you do not have enough breast milk. If you decide to supplement at this time, you will be telling your body you need less breast milk at this time, and your body will respond to this by producing less breast milk. Remember; breastfeeding works on a supply-and-demand basis to support your baby during growth spurts and to provide additional nutrition when required by baby.
 
Immature nervous systems are often associated with cluster feeding and evening fussiness with babies. By age three to four months, fussiness and cluster feeding is normally reduced. Cluster feeding can return for a short period, during growth spurts. Research has suggested that babies carried during the daytime have less periods of fussiness in the evening time. It can be challenging to feed baby on demand during these times, but remember; more frequent feeding stimulates greater milk supply.
 
 
Soothing techniques for cluster feeding:
  • Calm atmosphere: Try to use dim lighting, reduce noise and create a relaxed environment.
  • Get support: Allow time for others to help with cooking, housework, or with other children. If baby is fussy and not feeding, allow daddy or others support to take baby, maybe for a walk or just a cuddle. If you are feeding, let your partner provide items to help you and baby feel relaxed.
  • Soothe baby with rhythmic motion.
  • Soothing Baby Massage – learn to massage baby using the colic relief sequence of massage strokes.
  • Give baby a warm relaxing baby.
  • Feed baby in different positions and change breast sides if baby is cluster feeding.
  • Make sure baby has a good deep latch and position while feeding. The article Breastfeeding: positioning and latching your baby is a good resource to aid you positioning and latching your baby.
  • If you are starting to feel stressed, take time out go for a shower, relaxing bath, short walk, while your partner takes baby. This will allow you to de-stress, if you are stressed, your baby will also feel this tension and it may cause baby to become more fussy or unsettled.
If you need additional breastfeeding support, you can contact a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or your healthcare professional, or attend a breastfeeding support group in your area. 
Pregnancy, Baby & Lactation Specialist 
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