Growth spurts in babies are the sudden surge in growth, a stage of development that progresses rapidly within a short period of time.
This usually happens in the first few months after birth. It typically lasts for several days up to about a week.
What happens when a baby experiences a growth spurt, and what are the signs? Here’s the explanation.
What Is a Growth Spurt?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a growth spurt is a period of very rapid and significant growth in humans. A growth spurt in babies is a normal phase experienced by every infant, whether they are exclusively breastfed or formula-fed. This usually happens when the baby is around 1 week, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, or even 3 months old—and it continues as the child grows into adolescence.
However, growth spurts in babies can also occur outside of these periods.
Throughout their development, children experience phases of accelerated growth. This acceleration happens when your child reaches new physical milestones (height and weight) in a short amount of time.
This process is triggered by the release of growth hormones from the pituitary gland in the brain, which stimulates bone and muscle growth.
Signs of Growth Spurts in Babies
Here are some of the signs of a growth spurt in babies:
1. Increased Feeding Frequency
One of the signs that a baby is going through a growth spurt is more frequent feeding.
If you usually breastfeed every 2–3 hours, during a growth spurt you may need to feed your baby every hour. So, pay attention if your little one is nursing throughout the night.
Dr. Joshua May, a pediatric endocrinologist at Los Angeles Medical Center, explains: “In the first year of a baby’s life, everything increases rapidly. A baby’s metabolism works quickly, so they need to feed quite frequently.”
“All the calories from breast milk or formula fuel the baby’s growth phase, such as building muscle, fat tissue, or reshaping bone structure with the help of hormones,” he adds.
2. Changes in Sleep Patterns
Some parents report that their baby’s sleep patterns change during this phase. Some babies may sleep more often, while others may wake up more frequently.
This happens because sleep is an important process in a baby’s growth and development. During sleep, a baby’s body produces growth hormones that are essential for development.
3. More Fussy and Crying More Often
Due to the growth spurt, babies tend to feel hungry and tired more quickly. As a result, they become fussier and cry more often.
Sometimes, the crying is also caused by discomfort from muscles and tendons stretching as part of their physical growth.
How to Handle Growth Spurts in Babies
Here are some ways to handle a baby’s growth spurt:
1. Store Expressed Breast Milk
When your baby experiences a growth spurt and feeds more frequently, it can be overwhelming to meet their breastfeeding needs.
That’s why it’s important to prepare an ample supply of expressed breast milk to accommodate your baby’s demands.
Don’t worry about running out— the more often you breastfeed and pump, the more your milk supply will increase, in line with the principle of supply and demand.
This way, when you’re too exhausted to nurse, you can give your little one breast milk through a soft cup feeder or dropper, or alternate feedings with your husband.
2. Ask for Help in Handling a Fussy Baby
A baby who is fussier than usual can be very difficult to manage alone. Besides draining your energy, it can also affect your emotions.
To avoid burnout, ask your husband or other family members to take turns caring for the baby.
Family support is crucial in helping you stay sane and fit during this phase.
3. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Nutritious food is not only important for keeping breast milk supply abundant, but also for maintaining your stamina so you can stay strong while caring for a baby going through a growth spurt.
Prevent stress by enjoying your favorite healthy foods, so your milk supply remains steady.
What Causes Growth Spurts in Babies?
