How Can I Tell If My Baby Is Getting Enough Breast Milk?

My baby seems content after breastfeeding

This was my first question when I started to breastfeed and probably yours as well.
Since breasts are neither see-through nor marked off in ounces,there are other signs that indicate baby is getting enough milk.

During the first few days

While the baby is receiving mother's thick, immunity-boosting colostrum, he/she will wet only one or two diapers per day.

Once mother's milk comes in

	Usually on the third or fourth day, the baby should begin to have 6-8 wet cloth diapers (5-6 wet disposable diapers) per day.An easy way to feel what a sufficiently wet diaper is like pour 2-4 tablespoons of water in a dry diaper.
	Most young babies will have at least two to five bowel movements every 24 hours for the first several months while some will switch to an infrequent bowel movements pattern after 4 - 6 weeks.
	The baby should gain at least 4-7 ounces per week after the fourth day of life.

More positive signs that indicate your baby is receiving enough milk:

	The baby nurses frequently, averaging at least 8-12 feedings per 24-hour period.
	Baby's swallowing sounds are audible as he is breastfed.
	Your baby seems content after feeding.
	Your Baby is alert and active, appears healthy, has good color, firm skin, and meets his/her milestones.
	Your breasts feel softer after each breastfeeding.

Return from How can I tell if my baby is getting enough breast milk? to Breastfeeding Principles

New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.

SBI!