No, Your Baby Doesn’t Need Water: Tips For Breastfeeding In The Heat That Every Mother Should Know
Its Summer time and that means ITS HOT outside, especially in Florida. Continue reading for some tips and tricks to help you and your little survive this “HOT GIRL” summer.
It’s 103 degrees in the shade and the sun is on full blast. The AC is struggling and your baby still wants to nurse like it’s not a whole sauna outside. Sound familiar?
Welcome to the summer !!
Your breastmilk is ENOUGH, Even in this extreme heat
Babies under 6 months do not need water — not even when it’s hot.
Your breastmilk is made up of about 88% water and naturally adjusts to meet your baby’s hydration needs. Even when temps are high, your milk gives your baby everything they need to stay nourished and hydrated.
So if your baby is exclusively breastfed, there’s no need to supplement with water unless your provider says otherwise.
Expect More Frequent Feedings
Just like your thirst meter increases in the heat, so does your babies. More frequent feeding is normal — and that’s okay.
Shorter, more frequent feeds
Cluster feeding during the hottest parts of the day
More night feeds (when it’s cooler)
Follow your baby’s cues and trust the process. This is all normal and helps protect them from dehydration. Neither you or your baby is broken.
Keep Cool While Nursing
Try these tips to make feeding more bearable during a heatwave:
Nurse in cooler spaces — indoors with AC, in the shade, wherever you decide keep comfort in mind
Dress light — breathable cotton or bamboo fabrics
Use a cooling cloth between you and baby
Skin-to-skin is still golden — just keep it chill
Remember heat rash is real and babies skin is new and can be fragile. If you’re noticing more skin breakouts take that into consideration
Stay Hydrated, Sis
If you haven’t realized it yet, You’re the milk supply. That means your hydration matters. While excessive amounts of water wont increase your supply (myth busted) dehydration will definitely decrease your output. Keep water nearby and get your sip on often. Coconut water, fruit-infused water, or even an electrolyte drink (watch the sugar!) can help. Stay nourished and take breaks when you can. Listen to your body.
Know the Signs of Overheating
Babies don’t have words, they cant tell you “I’m Too Hot”. With everything else listen to your babies body, it will let you know
Fewer wet diapers
Flushed or hot skin
Extra fussiness
Lethargy or difficulty waking for feeds
If there are any concerns contact your pediatrician or report to the nearest emergency room. Trust you mommy instincts, they wont lead you wrong.
If you think you’re doing the MOST you are and your baby appreciates
Feeding your baby during a heatwave isn’t easy, but you’re doing it. You’re listening to your body, following your baby’s cues, and showing up with love. The struggle is REAL and you’re bossin’ this “hot girl” summer era. It may not look the way you thought but its just as beautiful and fun.
Hi, I’m Courtney, Registered Nurse, IBCLC and photographer based in Northeast Florida. I’m here to support your fourth trimester.
Courtney
Let’s connect: