Why Is My Baby Eating All Night?

“Why is my baby eating ALL night?!” 😩🌙

First, you’re not alone, and your baby is not broken. It’s called reverse cycling. Your baby still needs the same amount of milk in 24 hours. If they skip or shorten daytime feeds, they’ll “reverse” the schedule and catch up at night.

Reverse cycling is most common in:

• Babies whose moms are away during the day (back to work, pumping, etc.)

• Distractible babies who’d rather explore than nurse in daylight

• Babies adjusting to changes in routine or caregivers

5 practical remedies for dealing with reverse cycling:

1️⃣ Sneak in extra feeds when you can

• Feed right before leaving for work

• Offer a feed as soon as you get home 

• Try a dream feed before you go to bed

2️⃣ Make daytime feeds distraction-free

• Use a quiet, dimly lit space

• Limit background noise and people talking to baby

• Nursing covers or a cozy corner can help babies focus

3️⃣ Maximize connection during the day

• Skin-to-skin time

• Babywearing

• Cuddling during feeds to meet baby’s emotional needs before nighttime sleep

4️⃣ Consider adjusting night feeds gradually

• If baby is old enough and gaining well, you can gently space feeds out at night by soothing first before offering the breast/bottle

• Always keep it calm — no full play sessions in the middle of the night

5️⃣ Be patient — it’s temporary 💗

• Reverse cycling often fades once baby adjusts to the new routine

• Many moms see improvement within a few weeks

Remember, reverse cycling isn’t a “bad habit” or a sign something’s wrong. It’s simply your baby’s way of making up for missed feeds and reconnecting with you. With a little patience, a few daytime tweaks, and some extra snuggles, most babies naturally shift back to a more balanced schedule. You’ve got this, and your little night owl won’t throw all night milk parties forever!