Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?

As an LC, I’m often asked this important question. ‘How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?’

The best way to determine if your baby is getting enough milk is by monitoring their weight gain. Your baby should gain about 4-7 ounces a week for the first 3 months of life. But how do you tell if baby is getting enough milk on a day to day basis without having to wait for a weigh in at the pedi or with a lactation specialist?

Here are 3 important things you can look for to reassure you that your baby is feeding well.

1. Diaper Output. Baby should have 1-2 wet diapers in their first 24 hours of life and at least 1 poop. On day 3 through 6 weeks of life, baby should have at least 6 wet diapers and at least 3 stools per day.

2. After 2-3 full days after birth you should notice your milk come in. You may observe milk leaking from your breasts or your breasts will feel full. You will see milk on baby’s lips or in their mouth after a feeding and hear baby swallowing at the breast. If you don’t notice the signs of your milk coming in, set up an appointment with an LC as soon as possible.

3. Your baby has a good healthy looking skin color and there are several times throughout the day when they are active and alert. Note: newborns are sleepy! However, there should be several times during the day and night when they are awake and alert.

It is so important to meet with a lactation professional after you bring baby home to make sure your baby is latching correctly and properly transferring milk. As an LC, I love answering all of mamas questions and showing her how to make breastfeeding comfortable for her and baby.

Let’s set up a lactation session. My prices are very affordable and the value you will get from the appointment will no doubt make you more confident and less concerned about the issues you’re experiencing! Studies show mamas who meet with lactation specialists are more successful at reaching their bf goals!

Christine Opre, MS; CLC®️