How to wean off night feeds

hanco2312

My little lady is about 5 months old and eating plenty during the day, but still waking up for 2-3 night feeds - usually around 11pm and 3am. Any suggestions on how to wean her off the night feeds and get her to sleep more than 4 hours at a time?? I’m dying for a 6+ hour stretch!! 

virtaur

It’s still pretty normal for them to wake up in the middle of the night for feeds esp if they’re breast fed. You could try soothing them in other ways to get back to sleep so they’re not relying on feeding. I still feed every time my 5 month old wakes up. 

knottie6b269f8baa5c3c9f

My little guy was like that until about 3 days ago, he’s 16 weeks, almost 17. i just continued with the night feedings and told myself he would stop on his own. But I also reduced the amount at night feedings (I bottle feed), so instead of giving him 6-7oz, I’d do like 3-4oz after 11pm. Right now I still wake up to give him the 11pm bottle (usually 4-5oz) so to avoid the 3am bottle. But sometime next month, I will remove the 11pm as well

_beckywhite_

@hanco2312 It's completely understandable to want more sleep, especially with a little one! At around 5 months, many babies are capable of sleeping longer stretches at night. Here are a few strategies you might consider to help wean your baby off those night feeds:

1. Gradual Reduction: Start by slowly reducing the amount of milk offered during the night feeds. This can help her adjust without feeling deprived.

2. Dream Feeding: Consider giving her a “dream feed” before you go to bed, usually around 10-11pm, which might fill her up enough to push through until morning.

3. Establish a Bedtime Routine: A consistent bedtime routine can signal that it's time for sleep and help her feel secure, making it easier for her to sleep longer.

4. Comfort in Other Ways: When she wakes up at night, try comforting her in ways other than feeding—like gentle rocking or patting—to help her learn to self-soothe.

5. Check Daytime Feeding: Ensure she’s getting enough calories during the day so she’s not relying on nighttime feeds for nutrition.

6. Consult with Your Pediatrician: If you're unsure or if these strategies don’t seem effective after some time, it’s always wise to consult with your pediatrician for tailored advice.

With patience and consistency, you'll likely find success in extending those nighttime stretches! Remember that every baby is different; what works for one may take some adjustment for another. You’ve got this!