Breast-feeding: Is your baby getting enough milk?

If you're breast-feeding, you may wonder whether your baby is getting enough milk. Ask yourself these questions — and know when to seek help.

When you're breast-feeding, you can't measure the amount of milk your baby takes at each feeding. But that's OK. You can watch for reassuring signs that your baby is getting enough to eat.

Cover the basics

When you're breast-feeding, ask yourself these questions:

• Is my baby gaining weight? Steady weight gain is often the most reliable sign that a baby is getting enough to eat. Although most babies lose weight soon after birth, it's typically regained — and then some — within two weeks. Your baby will be weighed at each checkup. If you're concerned about your baby's weight, you may want to schedule more frequent weigh-ins.

• How often does my baby breast-feed? Most newborns breast-feed eight to 12 times a day — about every two to three hours. Within two to three months, your baby may begin to go longer between feedings.

  During growth spurts — often at 10 to 14 days after birth, as well as at three weeks, six weeks, three months and six months — your baby may take more at each feeding or want to breast-feed more often. Trust your body's ability to keep up with the increased demand. The more often your baby nurses, the more milk your breasts produce.

• Can I hear my baby swallowing? If you listen carefully, you'll be able to hear your baby swallowing. Also look for a strong, steady, rhythmic motion in your baby's cheek. There may be a pause while your baby swallows. A small amount of milk may even dribble out of your baby's mouth.
• How do my breasts feel? When your baby is latched on successfully, you'll feel a gentle pulling sensation on your breast — rather than a pinching or biting sensation on your nipple. Your breasts may feel firm or full before the feeding, and softer or emptier afterward. If breast-feeding hurts, ask for help. Your baby's doctor may offer suggestions, and many hospitals have lactation consultants on staff.
• What about my baby's diapers? For the first few weeks, expect your baby to have six to eight wet diapers a day. A wet diaper will weigh about the same as a dry disposable diaper filled with 2 to 4 tablespoons of water. Also expect regular bowel movements — often three or more a day. The stool will be dark and sticky for the first few days, eventually becoming seedy, loose and golden yellow.
• Does my baby seem healthy? A baby who seems satisfied after a feeding and is alert and active at other times is likely getting enough to eat. Also look for a healthy skin tone.

Trust your instincts

You know your baby best. If you sense something isn't right, contact your baby's doctor — especially if your baby:

• Isn't gaining weight
• Isn't wetting six to eight diapers a day or having regular bowel movements
• Is consistently fussy after feedings
• Seems sleepy all the time
• Isn't interested in breast-feeding
• Spits up forcefully or more than a tablespoon or two after each feeding

Remember, every baby is unique. You may be surprised by your baby's hunger — or lack of appetite. As long as your baby grows and develops normally, you can be sure that you're meeting his or her nutritional needs.

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