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Feeding Gaps for a Preterm Baby
My baby was born at 34 weeks 2 days and has just completed 8 weeks. He has been exclusively breastfed since his 4th week and has good weight gain (from 2.3 kg at birth to around 4.3 kg currently) and adequate urine output.
Is it normal for him to have 3–4 hour gaps between feeds at night?
Also, what is the maximum recommended gap between feeds during the daytime at this age?
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I would be fine with a baby taking night feeds once in 3 hours but stretching it to 4 hours is still worrisome for me, considering this baby is born preterm. Try to feed the baby at least once in 3 hours without giving more gap than that. Also keep the frequency of morning feeds once in 2-3 hours. And watch for adequate passing of urine and weight check once in 2-4 weeks.
In case of any further doubts please do consult your pediatrician.
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Morning time every 2nd hourly and night time atleast 3rd hourly
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I totally understand your concern. Before suggesting treatment, I would like to ask a few questions to ensure the correct management can be provided.
Contact me on Practo or WhatsApp chat.
Contact number: 97012307 two nine
Dr. G. Avinash MBBS, MD (Pediatrics) Fellowship in Neonatology
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Preterm or term the frequency is 2nd hrly , during night time gap may be 3-4 hrs some times , instead of focusing on frequency focus on:
1 adequate urine output atleast 4-5 times daily
2 adequate wt gain check weekly
3 target 9-10 feeds/day
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Dr. Bhatt Vivek Prafulchandra
Pediatrician
5 yrs exp
Rajkot
Feed should be give 2 hourly
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Dr. Jay Gajjar
Pediatrician
6 yrs exp
Surat
Yes, 3–4 hr gap at night is fine if baby is gaining weight well and passing urine normally. In daytime, try not to exceed ~2.5–3 hrs gap. Follow baby’s demand cues, no need to wake at night if weight gain is good.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.