It's tough to feed a sleeping baby, and a newborn can be especially hard to wake up! Start by checking his diaper. The cool blast of air on his bottom is often enough to get him going! Gently rubbing his sides, back, or the soles of his feet may also do the trick. If all else fails, try gently wiping his face with a cool cloth.
It's fairly common for a new baby to want to eat very frequently. If your baby is continually wanting to eat more frequently than every 2 hours, she may not be getting enough at each feeding. Babies will also want to eat frequently during what we call "growth spurts". Basically, your baby's demand for formula increases as her body needs more calories. Growth spurts usually only last for a day or two. Try increasing the amount of formula at each feeding. For example, if baby has been taking 2 ounces each feeding, try offering 3 ounces. Also, make sure that your baby is really hungry and not just wanting to suck.
Engorgement will usually occur several days after you deliver your baby. It's caused by an increase in circulation to your breasts and your incoming milk supply. It can be quite uncomfortable as your breasts become hard and tender due to engorged tissue. To prevent this, wear a firm, supportive bra. Avoid all contact to your chest area. Even a warm shower hitting your chest or holding your baby up across your shoulder can be a stimulant. Medications are no longer given to "dry up" milk because of the dangerous side effects. If your breasts do become engorged, they'll be uncomfortable but luckily the condition normally lasts only 1 to 2 days. Be sure not to pump or express any of your breast milk. While this will temporarily relieve pressure it will only prolong the engorgement by signaling your body to make more milk. A mild pain reliever like acetaminophen and ice packs applied to your breasts can be used to relieve the discomfort.
At some point you may notice a small lump in your breast. These are often red and can be warm and painful to touch. This is usually a clogged milk duct. There are several things you can do if your ducts get clogged. Apply warm, moist heat to the area several times a day. If the lump has not gone away in 2 to 3 days, consult your provider as this can lead to a breast infection. Breast infections, or mastitis, have similar symptoms to a clogged duct, but are usually more painful and can be accompanied by a fever or flu-like symptoms. If you think you may have a breast infection, contact your provider right away. Mastitis is usually treated with antibiotics.