3-5 Months
Lactation information
Congratulations you have made it this far into your lactation journey! You should have a more established and consistent milk production and the baby’s feeding habits should be more predictable by now. While it might feel easier you will still have some bumps in the road with growth spurts, teething, and illnesses that can make it feel like you are moving backwards.
If you are pumping it can feel like you are losing supply or about to run out for your baby’s growing needs. On average its normal for one pump session to replace one feeding session. Unlike formula, breastmilk meets the needs of the baby which means 4-6 ounces is all baby needs on average. You may need a “power pump” session when baby cluster feeds- if you are exclusively pumping- just to handle that extra need during growth stages. Remember as long as formula hasn’t been introduced you can always keep an eye on diaper output and weight gain to see if baby is getting enough!
Around 3 Months
Babies start to lift their head and chest when on their tummy, and they begin to control their head movement. They also start to play with their hands and fingers, exploring their own bodies.
Babies start to recognize familiar faces and objects at a distance.
Developmental stages
Around 4 Months
Rolling over from tummy to back becomes a common milestone, along with the ability to support their weight with legs when standing. They also begin to reach for and grasp objects, using their entire hand.
They also begin to react to different emotions expressed by their caregivers, such as happiness and sadness.
Around 5 Months
Babies may begin to sit up briefly on their own and learn to move objects between their hands.
Babies begin to experiment with sounds, babbling and cooing, and they start to imitate sounds and movements.
They also start to develop an understanding of different emotions and may begin to respond to "no".
Once in a while, babies might bite the nipple or breast, especially when they are teething. Talk to a lactation consultant for tips on how to teach your baby not to bite.
Check out the link below where it talks about teething and more when it comes to breastfeeding at different stages!