Is my baby getting enough milk?

It is quite common to wonder if your baby is truly drinking enough milk at the breast. It’s nearly impossible to measure the milk, because it can’t be seen. So, how do you tell if your baby is getting enough? For the first few days, your breasts will be making colostrum for your baby. This first milk is thick and sticky but very nutritious and important for baby’s immune system. Your baby will likely feed often, 8-12 or more times in each 24 hour period. This frequent nursing in the early days helps to signal your breasts to make plenty of milk for your baby. With frequent nursing over the first few days, your body will transition from the super-rich colostrum to mature milk to match your baby’s changing needs. Your baby will continue to nurse often and start to gain weight. Most breastfeeding/chestfeeding issues, including low supply, can be solved more easily if they are addressed sooner rather than later. Even if you are unsure whether or not there is a problem, talking to a La Leche League Leader or lactation consultant can be helpful. You can achieve great peace of mind knowing that things are indeed going well, or, if they are not, you can get help to improve breastfeeding for you and your baby. If you are worried your baby isn’t getting enough milk, consider hand expressing your milk. You can feed the expressed milk by teaspoon, cup or directly into their mouth. If your baby is showing signs of not getting enough milk, please do not hesitate to seek help from a Leader or your baby’s healthcare provider. Remember, you are the expert on your baby. If something doesn’t seem right, trust your intuition and reach out for help. The physical act of breastfeeding/chestfeeding is more than the quantity of milk that is supplied, as you will find when you hold your baby in your arms. It is warmth, nutrition, and love all rolled into one. Understanding and appreciating the signs of knowing when your baby is getting enough milk is one of the most important things you can learn. If you have any concerns regarding your baby, they should be addressed with your healthcare provider. Baby’s PoopFrequency of Feeding FAQsHand Expressing LLLGB Article: Signs of effective feeding in the early days