Hunger Cues
Hunger Cues in order of progression. As baby gets hungrier, the next hunger level cue will be displayed. Keep in mind that babies may progress from the earliest hunger cue to crying, the last/highest hunger cue, in just a few minutes. For this reason, it is very important to check on newborns frequently. It is also important to feed during the early hunger cues because it will be a better experience for both mother/caregiver and baby.
The newborn phase is the time you get to know your baby, and your baby gets to know you. The essential mother/caregiver and baby bond develops while feeding during those early hunger cues. Other important reasons to feed during early hunger cues include:
· Baby has more patience and consumes slowly. This reduces tummy discomfort due to feeding aggressively and consuming air.
· For caregivers who are nursing, aggressive feeding can be challenging because baby is too hungry and does not want to latch or work for food.
· Aggressive feeding can also lead to painful feedings.
The primary focus should be avoiding or getting rid of hunger pain in baby before reaching the late hunger cues.
Early Hunger Cues:
1.
Rapid eye movement - this is the first sign that baby is getting hungry. There is no need to wake them at this time but know that your baby is getting hungry and will need to be fed soon.
2.
Licking lips and/or sticking tongue out - this is baby’s way of communicating hunger. This would be a good time to feed but baby can still wait a little longer.
3.
Closed fist to chin - baby is getting hungrier. This is also a good time to feed
Hunger Cues:
Green Hunger Cue
Sucking fist, arm, hand or rooting - baby is getting hungrier. This is also a good time to feed.
Late Hunger Cues:
Yellow Hunger Cue
Stretching arms - baby is trying to make self bigger and trying to get parents attention, because feeding did not occur with missed Early Cues.
Orange Hunger Cue
Stretching arms and legs sometimes gets squirmy and grunts - Baby is hangry.
Red Hunger Cue
Crying - Baby needs to be soothed before attempting to breastfeed unless breastfeeding is already established.