Breastfeeding
Signs of hunger
Mothers can follow their baby's lead in how often to breastfeed.
Rather than watching the clock, watch for cues that your baby is hungry such as the rooting reflex, chewing/sucking on hands or fingers.
Early feeding cues (signs) are the best time to feed!
Early cues: “I’m hungry” (stirring, mouth opening, turning head and seeking/rooting).
Mid-cues: “I’m really hungry” (stretching, increasing physical movement, hand to mouth).
Late cues: “Calm me, then feed me” (crying, agitated body movements, colour turning red).
In this guide:
- Breastfeeding 101
- In pregnancy – planning for breastfeeding
- Breastfeeding – the first few days
- Signs of hunger
- Breastfeeding – the early weeks
- Positioning and attachment
- Signs of an effective attachment
- Breastfeeding positions
- Common breastfeeding questions and concerns
- Common breastfeeding issues
- Breastfeeding in the first year
- Important points about breastfeeding