Is My Breastfed Baby Getting Enough Milk? How to Tell for Sure…
It’s one of the most common and persistent questions we hear from new parents in Metro Detroit: “Is my baby getting enough milk?” When you’re breastfeeding, you can’t see the ounces your baby is drinking, and this can lead to a lot of worry. Rest assured, this is a completely normal concern, and you’re not alone in feeling this way.
The good news is that your baby’s body gives you clear, reliable signs that they are getting all the nourishment they need. You just have to know what to look for!
The Most Reliable Signs Your Baby is Getting Enough Milk
Instead of focusing on things that don’t tell the whole story, like how your breasts feel, let’s look at the signs that truly matter.
1. Wet & Dirty Diapers
This is your number one indicator! A well-fed baby will have a predictable pattern of wet and dirty diapers.
- Wet Diapers: In the first few days, you’ll see a few wet diapers. By the time your baby is about 5 days old, you should expect around 6 to 8 or more wet diapers per 24 hours. A wet diaper should feel heavy and full.
- Dirty Diapers: In the first week, your baby’s poops will change. The black, tar-like meconium of the first few days will transition to a green-brown, and finally, to the classic yellow, seedy texture. By the time your baby is 5-7 days old, you should see at least 3 to 4 dirty diapers a day.
2. Baby’s Weight Gain
After a small initial weight loss (which is completely normal), your baby should start to regain that weight.
- Weight Gain: After the first week of life, a breastfed baby should gain an average of 5 to 7 ounces per week. Your pediatrician will be tracking this closely at well-child visits.
- Growth: Your baby’s growth isn’t just about weight—it’s also about height and head circumference. The fact that their clothes are getting snug and they look more filled out is a great visual cue.
3. Feeding Frequency & Behavior
A baby who is getting enough milk is a happy, engaged baby!
- Feeding Frequency: Newborns typically breastfeed 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period. They may cluster feed, meaning they feed very frequently for a few hours. This is normal and helps build your milk supply!
- Baby’s Behavior at the Breast: Listen for audible swallows after your initial letdown. Your baby should look relaxed and satisfied after a feeding, often with a wet mouth and a soft belly. They may fall asleep at the breast and then wake up alert and happy.
Debunking Common Breastfeeding Worries
It’s easy to get caught up in things that don’t actually tell you about your supply. If you’re concerned about these things, don’t be!
- My breasts don’t feel full anymore! This is a great sign! It often means your body has regulated its milk supply to meet your baby’s needs, so you’re not experiencing the same level of engorgement you felt in the beginning.
- My breasts aren’t leaking milk. Leaking is not an indicator of milk supply. Some women leak a lot, others barely at all, and both can have a perfect supply.
- My baby eats all the time! Newborns have tiny tummies and breast milk is easily digestible. Frequent feeding is normal and a crucial part of building a strong supply.
Still Worried about baby Having Enough Milk: Our Lactation Specialists are Here for You
While these signs are excellent indicators, we want to empower you with professional support so you never have to wonder alone. If you’re in Metro Detroit and you have concerns about milk supply, a painful latch, or your baby’s weight gain, please know that help is just a phone call away.
Our team at Michigan Family Doulas includes experienced and certified lactation specialists. We provide personalized, one-on-one support in the comfort of your home. We can observe a feeding, create a plan tailored to you and your baby, and give you the confidence you need to thrive.
This is your journey, and you deserve to feel confident and supported. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help. #doulasnearme #lactationexpertsnearme #michiganfamilydoulas
