By: Red Door Pediatric StaffÂ
Infants who are not getting enough to eat present a concerning issue for parents and caregivers. Proper nutrition is crucial for a baby’s growth and development, and when they are not getting enough to eat, it can lead to a variety of health problems. If you are experiencing this issue with your infant, it is important to understand the potential causes and seek appropriate help.
Causes of Infant Feeding Issues
There are many reasons why an infant may not be getting enough to eat. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Breastfeeding difficulties: Breastfeeding is a skill that both the baby and mother need to learn. If your infant is not latching properly or if you are experiencing pain during breastfeeding, it may result in the baby not getting enough milk.
- Low milk supply: If you are not producing enough milk, your baby may not be getting enough to eat. Low milk supply can be caused by several factors, such as hormonal imbalances, medications, stress, and certain medical conditions.
- Infant health issues: Certain health issues such as reflux, tongue tie, or orofacial myofunctional disorders can make it difficult for an infant to feed properly.
- Slow feeding: Some babies may be slow feeders or may fall asleep during feeding, resulting in them not getting enough to eat.
What to Do If Your Infant is Not Getting Enough to Eat
If you are concerned that your infant is not getting enough to eat, there are several steps you can take:
- Consult a Lactation Consultant: A lactation consultant can help you identify the cause of your baby’s feeding difficulties and offer advice on how to improve the situation. They can also provide support and guidance on breastfeeding techniques and ensure that your baby is getting enough milk.
- Consult a Pediatrician: A pediatrician can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be causing feeding difficulties. They can also provide advice on formula feeding if necessary.
- Consult a Speech-Language Pathologist: Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) specialize in diagnosing and treating communication and swallowing disorders. They can assess your infant’s feeding difficulties and identify any orofacial myofunctional disorders that may be contributing to the issue.
- Supplement with Formula: If your infant is not getting enough milk, you may need to supplement with formula.Â
Remember that feeding issues in infants are treatable, and with the right support and treatment, your child can get the nutrition they need. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. The therapists in our Grand Forks location are specially trained to answer your questions. These services are also offered in our other locations!