My 8-Week-Old Suddenly Wants to Feed Every Hour — Is My Milk Supply Low?
- Anna Kogan
- 13 hours ago
- 4 min read
If you’re a new mom and your baby suddenly wants to nurse every hour, it’s easy to go into panic mode. You might be asking yourself:
“Is my milk supply dropping?”
“Am I not making enough for my baby anymore?”
Let me reassure you: in most cases, frequent feeding at this stage is normal and temporary.
Let’s talk about what’s really going on — and when to reach out for help.
Why Is My Baby Suddenly So Fussy and Hungry?
Between 6 to 10 weeks, many babies go through what’s known as a developmental leap or growth spurt. Their brains and bodies are changing fast — and feeding plays a huge role in that.
You might notice:
• Baby wants to nurse every hour
• Short, restless naps
• Fussiness at the breast
• Pulling on and off, especially in the evening
• Sudden increase in night feeds
This is not necessarily a sign of low supply.
More often, it means your baby is stimulating your breasts to increase milk production for the next stage of growth.
Cluster Feeding: Nature’s Way to Boost Milk
During these intense periods of feeding, your baby is doing something amazing — regulating your supply.
Cluster feeding (especially common in the evenings) can feel overwhelming, but it’s biologically normal and effective. It helps:
• Increase prolactin levels
• Stimulate frequent letdowns
• Ensure your supply keeps up with baby’s growth
It’s also your baby’s way of seeking closeness and comfort. Growth spurts are hard work — for both of you!
When to Suspect a Real Supply Issue
Frequent feeds alone don’t equal low supply. But if you’re seeing these signs together, it’s time to get support:
• Baby has fewer than 6 wet diapers a day (after week 1)
• Weight gain is slow or has plateaued
• Breasts feel full but baby only feeds briefly or falls asleep quickly
• Feeds are very long, and baby still seems hungry
• You don’t notice any swallowing or milk transfer during feeds
These could mean baby is not effectively removing milk, which can eventually lead to reduced production.
This is where a lactation consultant can make all the difference. If you’re unsure, book a 1:1 session with me and let’s figure it out together.
What You Can Do Right Now
Here are five things that can help you ride this wave and support your supply:
1. Trust the frequent feeds.
This is how your body knows to make more milk. It’s not a sign of failure—it’s a feedback system that works.
2. Feed on demand, not the clock.
Watch your baby, not the time. Let them nurse whenever they ask, even if it feels constant.
3. Stay hydrated and nourished.
It doesn’t mean eating for two, but you do need balanced meals and frequent snacks. Try easy, nutrient-dense options.
4. Use skin-to-skin contact.
This releases oxytocin, helps milk flow, and calms both of you. Even short moments matter.
5. Evaluate your latch and milk transfer.
Pain, clicking sounds, shallow latching, or no noticeable swallowing can signal poor milk transfer.
This is fixable — and I can help you assess it during a consultation.
Want to Support Your Supply With Pumping?
If you’re returning to work soon or need to relieve fullness, adding a short pumping session once a day can help.
Here’s how to get started:
• My Mini Pumping Guide explains how to build a freezer stash without creating oversupply or stress.
• Need hands-on support?
We’ll go over your baby’s feeding behavior, milk supply, and your goals.
My Favorite Pumping Tools
If you’re not sure what to use, here are options I personally recommend to many moms:
• Manual Pump: Great for relieving engorgement or occasional use.
Medela Harmony - Manula Pump (I recommend changing the valve with this duckbill for better suction)
• Electric Pump: Best for regular pumping or returning to work.
BabyBuddha Pump (great primary pump that has a 315 mmHG motor and 3 programs you can work with - I advise to use the stimulation mode and the expression one that are the basics and get you the results you need). It comes with two flanges but you can hook it to pumping cups and make your pumping more discreet.
• Silicone Collector (Haakaa-style): Catches letdown from the other side while feeding.
Boon Trove Collector - Easy to use. You can actually use it both ways: actively or passively.
(Affiliate links included. I only recommend what I truly trust!)
Bottom Line
If your 8-week-old suddenly wants to feed every hour — it doesn’t mean your milk supply is low.
It likely means your baby is growing and your body is adjusting.
You’re doing an incredible job.
If something feels off or you’re just feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
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