Ask the expert — Cluster feeding: How to tell if your baby’s really hungry

“Wait, didn’t you just eat?” If you’ve found yourself saying this multiple times in a single evening, you’re not alone. One minute, your baby seems to have a predictable feeding routine, and the next, they want to nurse constantly, leaving you wondering what’s going on. Welcome to cluster feeding newborn—a phase that can feel overwhelming but is completely normal.

If your baby suddenly wants to eat back-to-back, especially in the evenings, you might be experiencing cluster feeding. This pattern of frequent feedings can leave new parents questioning: Is my baby really that hungry, or is something else happening? The good news? Cluster feeding plays a crucial role in your baby’s growth and development.

To help us understand why babies cluster feed and how parents can navigate this phase, we consulted Nicole Peluso, IBCLC, Manager of Lactation Services and Perinatal Education at Aeroflow Breastpumps. With years of experience supporting new parents, she explains how cluster feeding is a natural part of your baby’s development—and how you can make it easier on yourself.

Cradlewise: What exactly is cluster feeding, and how can parents identify it?

Nicole: Cluster feeding is when your baby has several short feeds close together over a few hours. It is normal newborn behavior. Frequent feedings during the day and night that increase milk supply and help ensure your baby is getting enough milk will typically happen ten times or more in a 24-hour period.

Cradlewise: Is cluster feeding more common at certain times of day or during specific growth stages?

Nicole: Cluster feeding often occurs in the later afternoon and evening, when prolactin levels (one of your breastfeeding hormones) and milk supply are lowest.

Cluster feeding can support growth spurts, which occur throughout the first year of life as your baby grows and achieves new milestones. Growth spurts to look for include when your baby will double their birth weight in six months and triple it by their first birthday.

Cradlewise: How can parents differentiate between cluster feeding and other feeding challenges like low milk supply or reflux?

Nicole: A young baby who is feeding will often cluster feed. Parents can be assured that growth is on target and milk supply is efficient and there are no other issues when babies are pooping enough and have happy awake periods and fall asleep satiated.

Cradlewise: What biological or developmental reasons drive babies to cluster feed?

Nicole: Cluster feeding is a normal part of a breastfeeding baby’s experience. It often happens more frequently when they are younger and going through growth spurts.

Cradlewise: How can parents manage the emotional and physical toll of cluster feeding sessions?

Nicole: Cluster feeding can lead to feeling both physically and emotionally exhausted. Research has shown that cluster feeding occurs more frequently in moms who are anxious. Getting adequate rest, asking for help, and eating well are essential to managing the toll that cluster feeding can take.

Cradlewise: Are there signs that indicate a baby is cluster feeding for comfort rather than hunger?

Nicole: A baby who nurses for a short time and then comes off and wants to go back soon after might just be looking for comfort, which is a very valid baby need. Whatever the reason your baby cues to feed, especially when very young, it’s best to be present and offer the breast. Comfort is important.

Cradlewise: Can formula-fed babies cluster feed too, or is it primarily seen in breastfed babies?

Nicole: Formula-fed babies can cluster feed too, but it’s seen more often in breastfed babies.

Cradlewise: How can parents ensure their baby is getting enough milk during cluster feeding periods?

Nicole: Responding to your baby is really important. Baby’s requests help regulate your milk supply, which in turn provides your baby with enough milk. It’s important to regularly weigh your baby under the guidance of a lactation consultant or pediatrician to confirm proper growth.

Cradlewise: When should parents be concerned that frequent feeding is a sign of a feeding issue rather than normal cluster feeding?

Nicole: If your baby is crying a lot while having infrequent stools and also trying to feed a lot, parents should check in with their pediatrician.

Cradlewise: Do you have any tips or calming techniques for parents navigating long cluster feeding sessions?

Nicole: Nipples could become irritated with the increase in breastfeeding time, so make sure to take care of your nipples. You might use your breast milk and/or cream on your nipples after feeding for relief.

Make sure your baby is latching deeply so it’s comfortable for both of you.

Try different breastfeeding positions to find one that feels best to you so you can relax into the feed. Sidelying position that allows you and baby to lie down while feeding is helpful during cluster feeding times.

Conclusion 

Cluster feeding can feel like a whirlwind, but it’s your baby’s way of growing, bonding, and preparing for new milestones. It may be exhausting, but it’s also a sign that your little one is thriving. With patience, support, and a little extra self-care, you’ll get through this phase—and soon enough, you’ll look back and realize just how much they’ve grown.