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How much breast milk should my 9 month old drink?

Understanding Breast Milk Needs for a 9-Month-Old
As your baby reaches the 9-month milestone, their nutritional needs evolve significantly. At this age, many parents wonder how much breast milk their little one should be consuming, especially as solid foods become a more prominent part of their diet.
Daily Intake Recommendations
For a 9-month-old, the general guideline suggests that babies should consume between 24 to 30 ounces of breast milk per day. This can be achieved through nursing sessions or bottle feedings. Typically, a breastfed baby at this age will nurse about four to six times a day, which aligns with their growing appetite and developmental needs.
Feeding Patterns
During each feeding, a baby may drink approximately 3 to 5 ounces of breast milk if using a bottle. However, it’s important to note that the amount can vary based on the baby’s hunger cues and individual preferences. As babies start to explore solid foods, they may adjust their milk intake accordingly, sometimes nursing more frequently during growth spurts or teething phases.
Balancing Solids and Milk
At 9 months, many babies are also eating a variety of solid foods. While breast milk remains a crucial source of nutrition, it’s essential to balance it with solids. The introduction of solids should complement breast milk rather than replace it entirely. Parents should observe their baby’s cues and adjust feeding practices to ensure they are getting adequate nutrition from both sources.
Conclusion
In summary, a 9-month-old typically needs 24 to 30 ounces of breast milk daily, with feeding sessions spread throughout the day. As your baby grows and their diet diversifies, staying attuned to their hunger signals will help you navigate their nutritional needs effectively. Always consult with a pediatrician if you have specific concerns about your baby’s feeding habits or nutritional intake.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

How many breast feeds a day at 9 months?

At this age, most babies who are eating solids well will nurse about 4 times per day. Of course, that number may increase during growth spurts or if your baby is feeling under the weather. Is your baby still waking in the middle of the night to nurse? Don’t worry—that’s still normal for some babies at this age.

Can I increase my milk supply at 9 months?

The easiest time to increase milk supply is during the first two months postpartum because it can become more challenging as your baby gets older. However, it is still possible to increase your supply as your baby gets older, it just might take a bit more patience.

How do I know my 9 month old is getting enough breast milk?

Signs your baby is getting enough milk
They seem calm and relaxed during feeds. Your baby comes off the breast on their own at the end of feeds. Their mouth looks moist after feeds. Your baby appears content and satisfied after most feeds.

Does milk supply decrease at 9 months?

Milk supply always decreases when baby sleeps through the night (unless mom pumps at night) but by 9 months most babies are able to make up the gap in decreasing milk supply with an increase in solid foods. This is a natural part of gradual weaning.

Do babies drink less breast milk at 9 months?

Most children normally show less interest in breastfeeding between 9 and 12 months of age. They often lose interest in the breast if they are also taking spoon feedings. Many children wean themselves around 12 months. For easy weaning, follow your baby’s lead.

How much should I be pumping at 9 months?

Breast milk pumping guide: how much and when in the first year

Age Amount of milk Frequency of feeds
4 months 120 – 180ml Every 3 – 4 hours
6 months 180 – 230ml Every 4 – 5 hours
6 – 9 months 180 – 230ml Every 3 – 4 hours during the day
9 – 12 months 180 – 230ml Every 3 – 4 hours during the day

How much breast milk does a 9 month old need?

Breast milk feedings and amounts by age

Age Time between feedings Ounces per feeding
1-3 Months 3-4 hours 3-4 ounces
3-6 months 4-6 hours 4-8 ounces
6-9 months 4-6 hours 6-8 ounces
9-12 months 5-8 hours 7-8 ounces

Why has my 9 month old gone off milk?

The following reasons are some of the most common things to look out for if your baby refuses the bottle: Your baby was recently weaned and wants to continue breastfeeding. Your baby isn’t hungry enough to want feeding. Your baby is feeling sick, colicky, or otherwise unwell enough to feed.

Is there a 9 month growth spurt?

Growth spurts can happen several times during baby’s first year of life. During the early months, growth spurts are common for newborns around 1 to 3 weeks old and at 6 to 8 weeks. Then growth spurts usually occur every few months, at about 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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