Welcoming a newborn into the world is a joyous and transformative experience for parents. However, concerns about a baby's weight gain can bring about anxiety and uncertainty. It's important to recognize that every baby is unique, and there are several factors that can contribute to a newborn's struggle to gain weight effectively.
Many parents don't know where to look for help when they get the news that their newborn isn't gaining weight. While a pediatrician can diagnose and bring awareness to the issue, they rarely have time to provide individualized advice and often immediately resort to formula supplementation. Formula supplementation is absolutely an option - but it isn't the only solution and it certainly isn't the first solution that should be implemented in most cases if your goal is to continue breastfeeding.
I've captured some good information on the topic below, but if you would like individualized advice, reach out for a free 15 min consultation with Hali'a Therapeutics (experts in infant oral motor skills and infant development). Online and in-person appointments available!
Why is losing weight an issue?
The main concern with infant weight loss is its relation to dehydration. In the womb, babies receive continuous nutrition from the umbilical cord. After birth they must receive this nutrition from either breast or bottle feeding at regularly timed intervals otherwise newborn weight loss is inevitable.
Tracking weight loss can help alert us to early signs of difficulty with feeding. It is why there is so much attention paid to it in the early days.
Let's get into some of the reasons your newborn may not be gaining weight:
1. Improper/Ineffective Measurement at Birth: If you received IV fluids or antibiotics during labor, your baby did too! Their body will naturally expel this extra fluid quickly after birth which can often make weight loss appear much worse. Many organizations recommend beginning to track the babies weight at 24 hours post birth and basing weight loss percentages off of the 24 hour measurement. (PMID: 29356561). So first it is important to ensure you know what your babies 24hour birth weight is rather than the birthweight recorded on their birth documents. You can typically find their 24 hour birthweight on hospital discharge documentation.
2. Latch and Feeding Challenges: One of the primary reasons for poor weight gain in newborns is difficulty latching onto the breast or bottle. This can be due to various factors such as tongue tie, weak suckling reflex, or positioning issues during feeding. Consulting a lactation provider (Jess@HaliaOT.com) can help address these challenges and ensure proper feeding techniques. These providers can help guide you through steps to take and how to navigate upcoming appointments with the pediatrician.
3. Insufficient Milk Supply: In some cases, mothers may experience challenges with milk production, leading to an inadequate supply for the baby's needs. Often times this occurs in mamas that had a cesarean, as this can cause there to be a delay in producing transitional milk. However it is important to note that your body starts producing colostrum as early at 16 weeks pregnant! Other reasons your their may be ineffective milk supply can be due to hormonal imbalances, stress, prior trauma/surgery to breast tissue, or ineffective latch. Working closely with a lactation specialist can help improve milk production and optimize feeding sessions. (Jess@HaliaOT.com)
4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions or underlying health issues in newborns can affect their ability to gain weight. Conditions like allergies/intolerances, reflux, gastrointestinal disorders, or metabolic conditions may impact digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to weight gain difficulties. Early diagnosis and appropriate medical management are crucial in such cases.
5. Prematurity or Low Birth Weight: Premature babies or those born with low birth weight may face challenges in gaining weight initially. Their bodies are still developing, and they may require specialized feeding plans, monitoring, and medical support to promote healthy weight gain and development.
6. Feeding Preferences: Some babies may exhibit preferences for certain feeding methods or schedules, leading to irregular feeding patterns and inadequate intake. It's essential for parents to observe their baby's cues, seek guidance from healthcare providers, and ensure consistent feeding routines to support weight gain.
7. Environmental Factors: External factors such as stress, environmental changes, or disruptions in feeding routines can impact a newborn's feeding behavior and weight gain. Creating a calm and nurturing environment, practicing responsive feeding, and seeking support when needed can help mitigate these challenges.
8. Genetic and Individual Variations: Each baby has unique genetic factors and individual variations that can influence their metabolism, nutrient requirements, and growth patterns. Some babies may naturally have slower weight gain trajectories but still maintain overall health and development.
Addressing weight gain concerns in newborns requires a collaborative approach involving parents, healthcare providers, and lactation specialists. Regular monitoring of growth metrics, implementing appropriate feeding strategies, addressing underlying issues promptly, and seeking professional guidance can significantly support a baby's healthy weight gain journey.
Remember, every baby's growth journey is different, and patience, support, and informed decision-making are key elements in ensuring their well-being and optimal development. If you would like individualized assessment or guidance please reach out for a free 15 minute consultation. Hali'a Therapeutics provides services virtually as well as in-person/in-home in the Eugene area. We can be reached at:
(707)484-6460
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