For breastfeeding moms, it can be difficult to know if your newborn is getting enough milk. Without seeing the milk volume in a bottle, we can often wonder if our baby is drinking enough and even assume our supply of breast milk is too low to give our baby enough milk. These feelings of uncertainty can lead a mom to introduce formula when it isn't needed.
The first milk that is produced, colostrum, is made in small amounts and this can leave new moms feeling like their body just isn't making enough milk. This is another reason formula is often started unnecessarily. But newborn babies have a tiny stomach and the small volume of colostrum is all they need.
The entire process of learning to breastfeeding and being unfamiliar with lactation can leave a mom feeling concerned her baby isn't getting enough, and this quickly leads to defeat.
Luckily we don't have to guess if our baby is getting enough! I'm here to tell you there are many signs when your newborn is thriving with your breast milk and you don't need to worry about your supply.
Here are a few important signs your newborn baby is getting enough breast milk:
Your baby is gaining weight at a healthy rate. Check your baby's weight often with your pediatrician. Newborns should have a weight check before leaving the hospital, again around 3 days of age, and by 2 weeks of age.
Your baby is satisfied after nursing. (read How to know when your baby is full)
Your baby nurses 8 to 12 times every 24 hours.
Your baby has frequent wet & dirty diapers. Discuss with your pediatrician how many per day is normal for your baby.
Your baby has no sudden decrease in the number of wet or dirty diapers per day. A change in bowel or bladder activity can indicate less milk is being consumed by your baby.
You can see & hear your baby swallowing while nursing.
Your breasts feel full before nursing & soft after a feeding.
If you're not seeing all of these signs that your baby is getting enough milk, discuss your concerns with your pediatrician right away. Frequent weight checks will help you know if your baby is on track and getting enough breast milk. I encourage moms to work with their pediatrician to discuss healthy newborn weight gain and to follow-up with any concerns. When you know what to expect and what to look for, you'll know when your baby is eating well and when to call for support.
It's also very important to reach out to your lactation consultant as soon as you are having questions or problems with early breastfeeding efforts. Ask for a lactation consultant's phone number before going home from the hospital or at your pediatrician's office. Getting the knowledgeable support you need, quickly, can make all the difference in maintaining your great supply of breast milk. The first couple of weeks can be a vital time to establish your milk supply, so reach out and get the help you need right away to establish your milk supply early and protect your supply for the coming months.
You're doing a great job mama, keep up your great work! Your big efforts to breastfeed are well worth it! There are so many benefits to breastfeeding!
Do you have questions on what to expect with newborn breastfeeding and during the first year of feeding your baby (formula, breast milk, first foods, and meal times)?
I have helpful resources in my shop including free printable pages on tips for early breastfeeding success and signs your baby is getting enough breastmilk along with a thorough resource on the first 6 months of infant feeding.
Wanting more info on infant feeding?
Also check out signs your baby is full or hungry, and infant formula mixing, measuring, and safe preparation.