The 4-Month Sleep Regression? Growth Spurts? Here’s How It All Ties Into Feeding
Welcome to month four! If you're feeling like your once-sleepy baby has suddenly turned into a wide-eyed night owl with an endless appetite—you’re not imagining things. The 4-month sleep regression and growth spurts often collide in a perfect storm that leaves parents questioning everything, especially when it comes to feeding.
Let’s break it down and help you feel confident in what’s going on with your baby and your body.
🌙 What Is the 4-Month Sleep Regression?
Sleep "regressions" are better thought of as progressions—signs of important developmental leaps. Around 3.5 to 4.5 months, your baby’s brain starts to cycle through lighter and deeper sleep stages, similar to adult sleep. That means they wake more often and may have trouble falling back asleep.
You might notice:
-
Frequent waking at night
-
Shorter naps
-
Fussiness or clinginess
-
Increased interest in feeding (more on that below!)
It’s exhausting—but it’s also normal.
📈 Growth Spurts & Feeding: The Connection
Around the same time, babies often hit a major growth spurt. You may notice your baby:
-
Wants to nurse more often (even hourly!)
-
Seems hungry even after a full feed
-
Is fussier than usual
-
Wakes up to feed more at night
This increased feeding—sometimes called cluster feeding—is your baby’s way of telling your body to make more milk. It’s temporary, but important!
🤱 What This Means for Breastfeeding
During this time, you might wonder:
“Am I making enough milk?”
“Is my baby getting enough?”
“Do I need to supplement?”
Here’s some reassurance:
-
More frequent feeding doesn’t mean you’re not producing enough—it often means your baby is signaling a higher need.
-
The breast works on supply and demand. Feeding more = making more.
-
If your baby is gaining weight steadily, has plenty of wet diapers, and seems satisfied after feeds, you’re doing great.
The key? Feed on demand, even if it feels like you just finished a session. You’re not spoiling your baby—you’re supporting their growth and development.
💤 How to Support Yourself Through It
This stage can feel intense, so here are a few ways to take care of you:
✅ Rest when you can. If baby is taking shorter naps, try resting with them even if it's just closing your eyes.
✅ Eat and hydrate well. Your body is still working hard to produce milk.
✅ Limit distractions at the breast. At 4 months, babies are easily distracted—try a quiet, dimly lit space to help them focus.
✅ Consider babywearing. Some babies nurse better while being worn close to the chest—especially during cluster feeding days.
✅ Lean on support. You’re not meant to do this alone. Talk to your partner, doula, or lactation consultant if you’re feeling unsure.
🌼 This Too Shall Pass
The 4-month phase can feel like a rollercoaster—but it’s a sign that your baby is growing in all the right ways. Trust your instincts. Trust your baby. And know that frequent feeds, broken sleep, and a need for extra closeness are all part of the process.
You're doing an incredible job.
—
Written by Ileana Berrios, IBCLC
Founder of Breastfeeding Latinas
Need more personalized support during this stage? 📞 Schedule a consult today.