THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A LAZY BABY

I want to address a term that often surfaces in consultations and pediatric visits: "lazy baby." I believe this term is not only inaccurate but also unhelpful. It suggests a negative connotation and unjustly assigns blame to your infant for challenges in breastfeeding, which is unfair and unfounded.

Debunking the Myth of the "Lazy" Baby

Firstly, it's essential to recognize that your baby is just that—a baby. Infants are at the very beginning of their developmental journey, learning and growing every day. Describing a baby as lazy because they struggle with breastfeeding overlooks the real issues at hand, which are often physiological or developmental.  Using a term like "lazy" can create unnecessary negative feelings about your breastfeeding experience.

Common Reasons Behind Feeding Challenges

PREMATURE BIRTH

One frequent reason some babies might seem less active at the breast is prematurity. This includes babies born at 35, 36, or even 37 weeks. While these babies might not be early enough for intensive care, they are still developing neurologically and physically and commonly have breastfeeding difficulties. Their sucking might be weaker, or they may tire more quickly during feeding because, biologically, they were meant to spend more time developing in the womb.  This doesn't mean you can exclusively nurse them if that is your breastfeeding goal, but it may require some extra support and TLC.

ADAPTING TO BREASTFEEDING

Another consideration is the natural adaptation process to breastfeeding. Some newborns do not initially realize that they can obtain milk from the breast.  Though they have newborn reflexes that help guide them toward the breast, some just don't put two and two together. This realization might take a bit longer, especially when the milk flow is not yet abundant. It's perfectly natural for babies to need a little encouragement to keep sucking until the milk flow becomes consistent.

SLEEPINESS

Additionally, some infants might be sleepier than others, which can affect their ability to stay latched or continue sucking effectively. This can be managed by gentle stimulation, like tickling their feet, or by manually expressing a bit of milk to prompt them that more is available if they continue to suckle.

Supportive Strategies to Help a Baby Eating Slowly at the Breast

PATIENCE AND SUPPORT

It’s crucial for parents to have patience and to seek support from a lactation specialist when faced with breastfeeding challenges. Sometimes, using alternative feeding methods briefly, like giving a small amount of milk through a bottle or using a higher-calorie formula for premature babies, can provide the necessary support while your baby gains strength and skill.  Sometimes babies simply need to grow and gain some weight and then they have more stamina and do a better job at the breast.  

PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Consulting with lactation experts like Board-Certified Lactation Consultants or your pediatrician can provide personalized strategies tailored to your baby's specific needs. They can also help to monitor your baby to make sure they are having appropriate weight gain.  Remember, these professionals are here to support you and ensure that your baby thrives.

ENCOURAGEMENT AND PERSISTENCE

Helping your baby learn to breastfeed might require persistence and creativity. For instance, expressing a little milk beforehand can make the breast a more immediately rewarding place for your baby to feed. Gradually, as your baby learns by doing, breastfeeding typically becomes more natural and straightforward.

SKIN-TO-SKIN: Even if you are not doing exclusive breastfeeding, finding time for skin-to-skin snuggles is important and has health benefits for moms and babies.  Skin-to-skin helps indirectly with milk production, can help babies regulate themselves, and can help mothers and babies bond.  Skin-to-skin also helps babies learn to associate being on mom's chest with being warm, full, and loved.  

Supporting Your Breastfeeding Journey

The journey of breastfeeding is unique for each mother and child. What’s most important is recognizing that your baby isn’t lazy—they are simply learning and growing at their own pace. Together, with patience and the right support, you’ll navigate this beautiful, albeit sometimes challenging, experience and will get through it. No matter what your feeding plan is or how much breast milk you provide for your baby, you are doing an incredible job nurturing and feeding your baby, one way or another. Keep going, and know that help is always available when you need it.