As a mother, one of the most common concerns you may face during the breastfeeding journey is whether your baby is getting enough milk. Worrying about low breast milk supply is natural, especially for new mothers. With over 20 years of experience as a pregnancy and parenting consultant, I’ve guided countless mothers through this phase, ensuring they have the knowledge and support needed to feel confident in their breastfeeding journey.
Understanding the signs that your baby is getting enough milk can provide immense reassurance and help you continue breastfeeding with confidence.
1. Frequent Feeding and Effective Latching
One of the first signs that your baby is getting enough milk is the frequency of feeding. Newborns baby typically feed 8-12 times in a 24-hour period. If your baby is breastfeeding frequently, it indicates they are getting enough milk. However, effective latching is equally important. A good latch ensures that your baby can draw out the milk efficiently, preventing issues like low breast milk supply. Signs of an effective latch include the baby taking a large portion of the breast into their mouth, their lips flanged outwards, and no discomfort for the mother.
2. Steady Weight Gain
Weight gain is one of the most reliable indicators that your baby is receiving enough milk. In the first few days after birth, it is normal for babies to lose a small percentage of their birth weight. However, by the end of the first week, they should start gaining weight steadily, regaining their birth weight by the time they are 10 to 14 days old. If your baby is gaining weight consistently after this period, it’s a positive sign that they are getting enough breast milk.
3. Wet and Dirty Diapers
The number of wet and dirty diapers your baby produces is another key sign that they are getting enough milk. In the first few days after birth, a baby typically has one wet diaper per day of life. By the time your baby is five days old, they should be producing at least six wet diapers and three to four dirty diapers each day. The urine should be pale yellow and odorless, indicating that your baby is well-hydrated. If you notice these signs, it is a good indication that your baby is receiving enough breast milk.
4. Contentment After Feeding
After feeding, your baby should appear satisfied and content. While it’s normal for babies to cry for various reasons, including discomfort or overstimulation, a baby who is getting enough milk will generally be calm and relaxed after feeding. They may even fall asleep at the breast or soon after. If your baby remains fussy or seems unsatisfied after most feedings, it could be a sign of low breast milk supply, and it’s important to seek professional guidance.
5. Breast Softening After Feeding
Before feeding, your breasts may feel full or firm due to milk production. After your baby feeds, your breasts should feel softer, indicating that milk has been removed. If your breasts remain firm or engorged after feeding, it may be a sign that your baby is not effectively emptying the breast, which can lead to low breast milk supply over time. Ensuring your baby empties the breast during each feeding session is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply.
6. Regular Swallowing Sounds
When your baby is breastfeeding, you should be able to hear them swallowing regularly. This sound indicates that your baby is effectively removing milk from the breast. In the first few days, you might hear slow, spaced-out swallowing, but as your milk supply increases, you should hear more frequent swallowing during feedings. If you do not hear your baby swallowing often, it could be a sign of low breast milk supply, and consulting a lactation expert is recommended.
7. Alertness and Activity
A well-fed baby will generally be alert and active when awake. They will engage with their surroundings, make eye contact, and respond to sounds and stimuli. If your baby seems lethargic, excessively sleepy, or uninterested in feeding, it could indicate that they are not getting enough milk. Monitoring your baby’s behavior and energy levels can help you determine if they are feeding adequately.
8. Regular Bowel Movements
In addition to wet diapers, regular bowel movements are a key indicator that your baby is getting enough milk. For the first few days, your baby will pass meconium, a thick, sticky, black substance. After this, their stools should transition to a yellow, seedy appearance, which is typical for breastfed babies. If your baby’s stools are frequent and of the expected color and consistency, it’s a good sign that they are receiving sufficient breast milk.
9. Sufficient Feeding Time
A typical breastfeeding session lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, with some babies feeding longer. If your baby is feeding for an adequate amount of time and seems content afterward, they are likely getting enough milk. However, if your baby frequently feeds for only a few minutes before falling asleep or becoming fussy, it may be a sign of low breast milk supply. Ensuring that your baby feeds for an appropriate duration is crucial for their growth and your milk production.
10. Trust Your Instincts
As a mother, your instincts are powerful. If you feel that something isn’t right with your baby’s feeding, it’s essential to trust those feelings and seek help. While many mothers worry about low breast milk supply, it’s important to remember that most mothers are capable of producing enough milk for their babies. However, if you have concerns, consulting with a lactation expert can provide you with the support and guidance needed to ensure your baby is getting enough milk.
Seeking Help for Breastfeeding Concerns
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, but it’s not always easy. If you’re struggling with low breast milk supply or other breastfeeding challenges, know that help is available. As a pregnancy and parenting consultant with over two decades of experience, I offer personalized lactation counseling to support you on your breastfeeding journey. Whether you prefer in-person counseling at PD Hinduja Hospital in Khar, Mumbai, or online video consultations, I’m here to provide you with the guidance you need to ensure your baby is getting enough milk. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns about breastfeeding.
This Blog is contributed by: Sonali Shivlani, Founder of Baby360degrees
