Hey there, mama!
One of the biggest worries in the early days is whether your baby is getting enough milk. It’s totally normal to wonder if you’re doing everything right. Here’s a friendly guide to help you know if your little one is getting all the milk they need.
Signs Your Baby is Getting Enough Milk
Wet and Dirty Diapers: A good sign that your baby is well-fed is having plenty of wet and dirty diapers. After the first week, expect around 6-8 heavy, wet diapers and 2-3 big poops each day. Generally, if you’re changing lots of diapers, it’s a good indicator that your baby is getting enough milk.
Contented Feeding: Does your baby seem satisfied and happy after most feeds? If your baby is relaxed and calm after feeding, they likely had enough milk.
Breast Softening: Feel your breasts for fullness and lumps before and after feeding. Do you notice any changes? Softening from the start to the end of a feed indicates that your baby has transferred a good amount of milk.
Steady Weight Gain: Your baby’s weight should be steadily increasing.
My Baby Always Seems Hungry
It is normal for a baby to want to breastfeed frequently. Remember that babies have tiny bellies and digest breast milk quickly, so they are often hungry or looking for a little snack. It is common for a baby to have a full feed, then return for a bit of dessert 20-30 minutes later.
You are your baby's home. Your baby is wired to love being near you and will ask to breastfeed for many reasons beyond hunger. It is their favorite thing to do and their favorite place to be. This is biologically normal, developmentally appropriate, and extremely beneficial to their growth and development.
My Baby Seems Content With Fewer Feeds
Babies who are born early or have jaundice are often sleepy. They may not cue for feeds and can appear content when they are actually too tired to feed. It is essential to wake these babies and offer frequent feeds, at least 8-10 feeds in 24 hours.
Sleepy babies need extra stimulation to stay awake for feeds. Here are some ways to help keep your baby actively feeding:
Leave your baby undressed.
Add breast compressions
Switch breasts often during the feed
Tickle baby's feet, sides, and armpits
Massage baby's hands and feet
Change the diaper before and in the middle of the feed (you can simply "fake" a diaper change if the diaper is dry).
If none of the above works, your baby may be too tired. Offer a small amount by bottle to give your baby the energy to feed, then try breastfeeding again.
If, after all of these measures, your baby still does not feed and you are not getting the expected number of wet and dirty diapers, seek professional help immediately. Young babies can dehydrate very quickly.
Monitoring Your Baby's Growth
Keeping an eye on your baby’s growth can give you clues about their milk intake. Your baby's healthcare provider will track their weight at each visit. Many community-based parenting centers or baby clinics have scales for parents who want to do more frequent weight checks.
If you notice any significant changes or your baby seems to struggle with feeding, discuss your concerns with your doctor and contact a lactation consultant.
When to Seek Help
It’s okay to ask for help at any point, especially if you’re worried. If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to reach out for support:
Your baby has fewer wet and dirty diapers than expected.
There is concern about your baby's weight gain.
Feedings seem to take a lot longer than expected, or your baby doesn’t seem satisfied.
Speaking to a lactation consultant can provide reassurance and guidance to help you feel more confident.
You've got this, mama!
Remember, every baby is different, and it’s okay to reach out for support if you’re ever in doubt. Trust your instincts and lean on the resources around you—whether it’s a healthcare provider, a lactation consultant, or your community. You’re doing a fantastic job, and with the right tools and support, you’ll continue to give your baby everything they need. Keep going—you’re stronger than you think!
Feel free to reach out anytime. I'm here for you!
Warmest regards,
Jessica
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