Breastfeeding in a heatwave: how to feed and protect your baby in hot weather

When temperatures climb, many mums ask themselves the same question: should you give water to a breastfed baby during a heatwave? Between worries about dehydration and increased hydration needs, it isn't always easy to know what to do.

Good news: breastfeeding is perfectly suited to hot weather. Here's how to support your baby through the summer and the habits to adopt so you can get through heatwaves with peace of mind.

Is breast milk enough during a heatwave?

Yes. Breast milk is made up of nearly 90% water and naturally meets your baby's hydration needs, even when it's very hot.

During a heatwave, breastfed babies tend to ask for the breast more often. These closely spaced feeds are completely normal: they let baby take on more fluids thanks to the foremilk, which is naturally richer in water.

For exclusively breastfed babies, there's generally no need to offer water before six months, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Why does baby ask for the breast more often in summer?

Hot weather increases the need for fluids. Your baby may then:

• ask for more frequent feeds;
• feed for less time but more often;
• seem more restless or uncomfortable;
• seek more contact with mum.

This behaviour is perfectly normal. Over the summer, breastfeeding works on the principle of supply and demand: the more baby feeds, the more your body adapts its milk supply to their needs.

How to prevent dehydration in a breastfed baby

Even though breast milk covers baby's hydration needs, there are some signs to keep an eye on:

• fewer wet nappies than usual;
• a dry mouth;
• crying without tears;
• unusual drowsiness;
• a sunken fontanelle in babies.

If you notice several of these signs, contact a healthcare professional quickly.

In most cases, offering the breast on demand is the best way to prevent dehydration.

Tips for breastfeeding during a heatwave

1. Offer the breast more often

Don't always wait for the usual hunger cues. In hot weather, your baby may need small, more frequent feeds just to stay hydrated.

2. Stay well hydrated yourself

Breastfeeding naturally increases a mum's need for water. Keep a bottle of water within reach and sip regularly throughout the day.

3. Choose a cool spot

Go for the coolest rooms in the house for feeds. Closed blinds during the hottest hours and good airflow morning and evening help keep the temperature more comfortable.

4. Dress baby lightly

A simple light bodysuit or a nappy may be plenty when temperatures are high. Avoid clothes that are too thick, as they make baby sweat.

5. Enjoy skin-to-skin, with care

Skin-to-skin is still lovely and beneficial, but it can get uncomfortable when it's very hot. A thin cotton muslin between you and baby can make things comfier while keeping you close.

Can heat reduce milk supply?

Heat itself doesn't lower your milk supply. That said, a mum who gets dehydrated or doesn't eat enough may feel more tired.

To support your breastfeeding over the summer:

• drink regularly;
• eat a balanced diet;
• rest as much as you can;
• keep breastfeeding on demand.

Your body is remarkably good at adapting your milk supply to your baby's needs.

Outings and holidays: the precautions to take

During heatwaves, it's best to avoid going out during the hottest hours, generally between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

If you do have to go out:

• look for shade;
• use a parasol rather than a cloth draped over the pushchair;
• offer the breast more often;
• plan trips for early morning or the evening.

In short

Breastfeeding is a baby's ideal ally in hot weather. Breast milk provides both nourishment and hydration, even during a heatwave. By offering the breast on demand, watching for signs of dehydration and adopting a few simple habits to stay cool, you'll help your baby sail through the summer calmly.

Trust yourself: your body and your baby usually know exactly how to adapt to the season.