My Tip: Top it off from a bottle
As a new mom, one of the biggest concerns I had was making sure my baby was getting enough milk from breastfeeding. In my quest to ensure she was well-fed, I tried various methods, and my ultimate way was to use a scale to weigh your baby before and after feedings. I bought a baby scale and diligently weighed her before and after each breastfeeding session. This method, while informative, turned out to be quite a hassle. I quickly realized that this constant weighing was adding unnecessary stress to our feeding routine.
One night, after I breastfed my baby, the baby was very fussy and my doula offered her a bottle of milk to see if she would drink it. Initially, I felt bad, almost betrayed, seeing my baby take the bottle so eagerly. But this experience was eye-opening. It made me realize that my baby wasn’t getting enough milk from breastfeeding alone, especially after cluster feeding sessions when my milk supply was lower.
So, my biggest tip is to top it off from a bottle after breastfeeding. If your baby drinks the bottle, it’s a clear sign that they might not be getting enough milk from the breast alone. Another important indicator is if your baby cannot go 2-3 hours without needing another feeding like mine. She has to eat every hour. At night, this interval should extend to 3-4 hours. If your baby consistently wants to feed more frequently, it may indicate that they are not getting enough milk during each breastfeeding session.
General recommendations for ensuring your baby is getting enough milk
Weight Gain
One of the most reliable indicators of adequate milk intake is your baby’s weight gain, use this weight calculator to see if your baby is on track. Babies typically lose some weight in the first few days after birth but should start regaining it by day 5 and be back to their birth weight by about 2 weeks old. Regularly monitoring your baby’s weight through pediatrician visits or using a baby scale can help you track this.
Diaper Output
Monitoring your baby’s diaper output is another excellent way to gauge their milk intake. In the first few days, expect one wet diaper for each day of life. By day 4, your baby should have at least 6 wet diapers and 3-4 dirty diapers per day. The urine should be pale, not dark or concentrated.
Feeding Frequency
Newborns typically need to feed 8-12 times in 24 hours. As your baby grows and becomes more efficient at breastfeeding, feeding sessions may become shorter but still frequent. Use this schedule for feeding and napping for your baby’s age. If your baby is over 6 months, read about a feeding schedule for solids as well.
Baby’s Behavior
A content and satisfied baby after most feedings is a good sign. If your baby is excessively fussy or constantly rooting for more milk, it might indicate they are not getting enough. It’s also a good idea to read more about colicky babies.
Swallowing Sounds
Listening for swallowing sounds during feeding is another indicator. After your milk has come in (usually by day 3-5), you should hear your baby swallowing regularly. This suggests that they are effectively getting milk from your breast. It’s very important to have a proper latch – read more about how to teach your baby to latch properly.
Breast Changes
Your breasts should feel softer and less full after feedings. You might also feel a let-down reflex, which is a tingling sensation indicating milk release. You shouldn’t feel pain, if you do, try nipple shields and adjust baby’s latch and feeding position.
When to Seek Help
- If your baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight.
- If your baby has fewer than 6 wet diapers per day after day 5.
- If your baby seems excessively fussy or lethargic.
- If you experience pain during breastfeeding or have concerns about your milk supply.
Consulting a Lactation Consultant
A lactation consultant can provide personalized support and guidance. They can help with latch and positioning, milk supply issues, and breastfeeding techniques to ensure efficient feeding.
You got this mamma!