Breastfeeding is a beautiful way to nourish and bond with your baby, but it’s natural to wonder whether your little one is getting enough milk, especially in the early days. Unlike bottle-feeding, where you can see exactly how much your baby is eating, breastfeeding can feel a bit like a mystery. The good news is that there are clear signs that can help you know if your baby is getting enough milk.
Let’s explore them together.
Diaper Output: The Best Indicator
One of the simplest ways to gauge if your baby is getting enough milk is by checking their diaper output. What goes in must come out, so if your baby is having plenty of wet and dirty diapers, it’s a good sign they’re well-fed.
To learn what a wet diaper feels like, put 2 tablespoons of water in a diaper, cloth or disposable. Notice the weight and how it feels. After about a month the diapers will be wetter, about 4-6 tablespoons.
Wet Diapers:
In the first few days, your baby may only have 1-2 wet diapers per day. After about the fourth day, this should increase to at least 4-6 disposable diapers (6-8 cloth diapers) every 24 hours.
Wet diapers should be clear or pale yellow in colour and feel heavy when soaked.
Dirty Diapers:
Your baby’s first poops will be thick and tarry (called meconium), but after a few days, the stool should transition to a mustard-yellow colour and be loose and seedy.
Between week 1-4, babies who are getting enough hindmilk will produce at least 2-3 yellow seedy stools a day.
After the first month or two, as the gut matures, the frequency of bowel movements decreases and can be normal to have only 1 bowel movement a day. Some breastfed babies have one bowel movement every 3-4 days
While urine output indicates that your baby is getting enough fluid from their milk, stool output provides insight into the quality of that milk. It reflects whether your baby is nursing long enough and effectively to stimulate your milk ejection reflex, which brings in the richer, high-calorie hindmilk.
If your week-old baby isn't producing enough stools, it’s essential to assess the breastfeeding process closely. Check for signs of an efficient latch and swallow, and consider consulting a lactation consultant.
Speak with your doctor to determine if your baby might need additional milk while they’re learning to breastfeed more efficiently.
Baby’s Weight Gain: A Reliable Measure
Weight gain is one of the most reliable indicators that your baby is getting enough milk.
Most infants will lose an average of 4-7% of their birthweight in the first few days of life, due to the loss of extra fluid.
What to Expect:
Most babies regain their birth weight by about 10-14 days of age.
On average, your baby should gain about 4-7 ounces (113-200 grams) per week during the first few months.
Regular check-ups with your paediatrician will help track your baby’s growth and ensure they’re on the right path.
Feeding Frequency: The Normal Range
Newborns typically need to feed 8-12 times in a 24-hour period, which averages out to every 2-3 hours. Frequent feeding is normal and helps establish your milk supply.
Signs of a Good Feeding:
Your baby latches well, and you can hear or see them swallowing.
They seem content and satisfied after feeding, often falling asleep at the breast.
Keep in mind that cluster feeding—when your baby wants to nurse more frequently than usual—is normal and doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t getting enough milk. It’s often their way of boosting your milk supply during growth spurts.
Baby’s Behaviour: Happy and Satisfied
A well-fed baby is typically alert, active, and content between feedings. While it’s normal for babies to fuss from time to time (especially during the "witching hour" in the evening), consistent signs of hunger after feeding could indicate a need for more frequent nursing.
Cues Your Baby is Getting Enough:
Your baby releases the breast on their own after feeding.
They seem relaxed and sleepy after nursing, rather than agitated.
Their hands will go from clenched to relaxed.
You notice your breasts feeling softer and less full after feeding.
Your body provides clues as well. During the first few weeks, your breasts should feel fuller before feeding and softer afterward. You may also notice milk leaking from the opposite breast during a feeding or experience the let-down reflex, a tingling sensation that occurs when your milk is released.
Watch for Signs of Dehydration:
While it’s rare, dehydration can occur if a baby isn’t getting enough milk. Keep an eye out for the following signs:
Fewer than 6 wet diapers in 24 hours after day 5.
Dark yellow or orange urine.
Dry mouth or lips.
Lethargy or excessive sleepiness.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact your pediatrician right away.
You've got this mama!
Breastfeeding can be a learning curve for both you and your baby, but trust your body and your instincts. If your baby is having plenty of wet and dirty diapers, gaining weight, and seems content after feedings, chances are they’re getting exactly what they need.
If you ever have concerns or questions about breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Lactation consultants, postpartum doulas, and your healthcare provider are all great resources to help you navigate this special time.
Remember, every baby is unique, and you’re doing an amazing job nourishing your little one.
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