Dream feed tips

[georgeo]

Dd is nearly 11 weeks old. I've tried the dream feed several times but she won't eat, not even open her mouth. I've tried here and there but not for a sid block of nights yet as she got two different colds and vaccines so didn't want to disturb her sleep for nothing if she didn't eat.

I stroke her lower lip and cheek with my nipple but nothing. I can force it into her mouth but she doesn't suck.

Ds took to it right away but he was 5 months when we found BW. Do they take it more readily as they get older or is she likely just a deeper sleeper?

Anyone have dreamfeed tricks up their sleeve?

[Erin M]

Change the time you offer it by 15-30 minutes in either direction and see if that helps.

[atlantamomofthree]

It wouldn't technically be a DF if you did this, but you *could* change her diaper (even if you put the same one back on because it's still dry ) and this should be enough to get her to feed. The only risk is that she could end up staying awake (though I know my LO wouldn't have at that age). Might be worth a try.

HTH and GL =)

[georgeo]

Thanks ladies. She does just go straight back to sleep I just thought doing that might make her more unsettled during the night but you're right, probably not at this age.

I've been trying it 4 hours after she goes to sleep. Are you thinking 15 mom earlier or later would be at a lighter time in the sleep cycle? I'll try 3:45 tonight.

Thanks:)

[amayzie]

Trying it in a lighter part of sleep might help-

i would force it in there after opening his mouth and then.. well.. i guess sort of jiggle it around a bit :-/ Also- you could try hand expressing a little out onto the nipple so that he gets some  in his mouth to start with- so he might get the idea of why you're there...

I think it took us about a week of fussing to get it right= several no goes, at least one time where the milk started pouring over his face while he slept- and we didn't offer it some nights. But once it was going he really had the idea...