Overnight Feeding Associations lead to Reverse Cycling
Meet Margo
I'm excited to share the story of my work with sweet Margo. I began coaching her when she was just 3 months old and 12 lbs, and our journey together continues. Her mom, Miranda, initially sought my guidance on Margo’s sleep and feeding habits. Many people don't realize that a baby’s sleep habits are directly linked to their ability to sleep through the night, and feeding is one of the strongest associations that causes resistance when falling asleep independently, leading to frequent overnight wakings.
Sleep Associations
Margo initially had several sleep associations, including the Snoo, parental presence, rocking, feeding, and the pacifier. I understood that removing all parent-led associations on night 1 seemed daunting to Miranda, so I carefully explained why this step was crucial.
In my sleep training approach, understanding the reasoning behind each recommendation is vital. Knowing the rationale and shifting our mindset when necessary helps us stay consistent. I believe Miranda would agree! As she shared, “I wouldn’t have been able to change her sleep associations without daily guidance.”
Big Changes
On night one, we moved Margo to her own room and crib. Before sleep training, she was waking up 3+ times a night, including a feed every 3 hours. Margo had become very reliant on this habitual feeding pattern despite her growth progress, waking out of habit rather than hunger. This pattern, known as reverse cycling, occurs when a baby takes in more calories overnight than is age-appropriate, which in turn negatively impacts their daytime feeds.
But What if she is Hungry?
Like most moms, Miranda’s biggest concern was ensuring Margo wasn’t hungry when we started weaning night feeds. Therefore, we took a gradual approach, initially weaning to one night feed before removing them completely. This allowed Margo time to adjust and increase her daytime calorie intake, while also giving Miranda confidence that Margo was thriving with consolidated sleep.
However, that initial concern resurfaced whenever new night wakings occurred over the next several months. Miranda would wonder if Margo was hungry and reintroduce feeds, only to find that this caused even more wakings. There were times when Margo was back up to three feeds, but we were always able to get her back on track. Miranda wants other moms to know, “You can always get back on track, and when life happens and your baby starts waking again, it’s time for a transition,” not more feeds!
Progress
By the end of our two weeks together, Margo was sleeping 11-12 hours through the night in her own room. She had weaned off all overnight feeds and was falling asleep independently for bedtime and naps. Miranda shared, “I am SO happy I was able to sleep train my daughter in such a short time. I didn’t think it would be possible to wean multiple night feeds and have my daughter sleeping overnight in her crib! We are all so much happier with the much-needed rest we were all missing for months! I highly recommend having a one-on-one coach to guide you through the process!! We are beyond happy with the results!”
Ongoing Coaching
Since then, I’ve also helped Margo through both nap transitions to three (around 5 months) and then to two (at 7 months). Miranda understands how important a predictable schedule that aligns with Margo’s circadian rhythm and development truly is! Because of Margo’s strong sleep foundation, she adapts quickly to changes. Just when we feel all is going smoothly, our babies schedule changes again! Miranda is prepared with what to look for as Margo nears the transition to one nap and knows that I am here as an ongoing resource! I truly value staying connected with the families I help with sleep from the start.
