Dehydration

[lady_neon]

So, it has been rather warm over here in the west, and I've been vigilant with making sure DS is well hydrated. I know that the a sunken fontanelle is a sign of dehydration, but how sunken?

DS is feeding much the same really, but with an extra night feed. He's his normal self, happy, alert etc. However his nappies, whilst still wet, are no way near as heavy as usual. Mind you, he has been pooping more frequently (gone from 2 times a week to 3+ times a day). His fontanelle seems constantly sunken as well. Does this seem ok or what? I am offering a feed every hour but he doesn't always want it so I'm assuming all is good?

[OceanPrincess]

Sounds like he's doing ok LN - you'd expect the output to reduce a little bit if they are a little it dehydrated, the number of pooey nappies sound pretty good! Happy alert baby sounds pretty good too. Have you tried the snap test? Gently pinch his skin on the back of his hand and see if it snaps back down, as opposed to sinking slowly back into shape. Good skin elasticity generally means good hydration.

Offering small, frequent feeds is good hun.

[Tuesday's Child]

As long as he's his normal and alert self, I wouldn't worry too much. Sounds like you're doing great, mama

[Barb Glare]

Hi, dehydration is more of a problem with newborns. Once they are a few months old they are well able to ask for a feed if they need it and as long as you respond, they are fine. If he’s not thirsty and doesn’t want it when offered, that’s fine too! Pooey nappies usually have a wee in them too.