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When it comes to breastfeeding, you may hear the terms “baby-led feeding” and “responsive feeding.” They sound similar, but they’re not quite the same.

Baby-led feeding simply means following your baby’s hunger and fullness cues, rather than watching the clock. Instead of feeding every three hours by schedule, you feed your baby when they show they’re hungry (rooting, sucking hands, stirring, fussing) and stop when they’re full (relaxed hands, turning away, slowing down). It’s all about letting your baby guide when and how much they need to eat.

Responsive feeding goes a step further. We know that babies don’t just feed for nutrition, they also feed for comfort, closeness, and reassurance. Responsive feeding means tuning in to your baby’s emotional as well as physical needs. Sometimes you’ll offer the breast not because your baby is hungry, but because they need comfort, connection, or help settling. Sometimes you’ll offer the breast because you feel full and uncomfortable!

Both approaches support bonding, boost milk supply, and help you build confidence in understanding your baby.

In short: baby-led feeding follows hunger cues, responsive feeding responds to all your baby’s needs. Both are about nurturing your baby and yourself, while building a strong foundation for your breastfeeding journey.

If you’d like gentle support in understanding your baby’s cues and making feeding feel calmer and easier get in touch, I would love to help.

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