Got Milk?

"Is my baby getting enough breastmilk?"  We hear this question all the tme, and with good reason, too!  Unlike bottle feeding, breastfeeding does not allow you to measure exactly how much milk the baby is getting.  This can cause many moms to wonder if they are making enough milk for their baby.  Fortunately, there are several ways to tell that your baby is getting enough milk.

1.  Baby seems relaxed and satisfied after a feeding.  This means that the baby's fists are not clenched, her arms are not stiff, and she may even be asleep. 

2.  You can hear or see your baby swallow when she breastfeeds.  This will sound like a small clicking noise.  Most babies have a "suck suck swallow" rhythm while they eat, and you will be able to hear this.

2.  Baby is gaining weight.  Right after birth, it is normal for a baby to lose between 5 and 9 percent of her birth weight, as long as she regains it by the time she is two weeks old.  After that, she should continue to gain weight.  Weight gain will be fast in the first few months, and will gradually slow down as she gets older.  If you are concerned about your baby's weight gain, talk to your doctor.

3.  You are breastfeeding frequently.  You should be breastfeeding 10 to 12 times in each 24 hours.  This may seem like a lot, but breastmilk is digested much more quickly than formula because it is easier on baby's tummy.  This is a good thing!  It prevents constipation and discomfort (breastfed babies hardly ever get constipated!).

4.  Baby has dirty and wet diapers.  All that breastmilk has to go somewhere!  After day 1, your baby should have 3 or more stools per day.  This will increase to 4 or more stools a day by day 5.  Her stool should change from black to yellow by day 5, and her urine should be clear or pale yellow.  She will also have 6 or more wet diapers a day by day 5. 

If all these are true, relax!  Your baby is getting everything she needs from your breastmilk.  If some of these are not true, try not to worry.  Call your WIC breastfeeding peer counselor and she can help you with any problems you might be having.

If you see signs that your baby is not getting enought to eat, call your baby's doctor right away.

Sarah Robertson, Nutritionist