Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk? A Real Talk Guide from a Lactation Consultant + Mama

Learn the signs to look out for to let you know your baby is getting enough. From diaper counts to post feeding cues, I gotcha’ need- to- know basics

Bringing a new baby home is a whole experience and transition for everyone involved. Between cluster feeds, diaper blowouts, and wondering when you last showered it’s easy to start questioning yourself. One of the biggest concerns I hear as a lactation consultant is:

“How do I know if my baby’s actually getting enough milk?”

Sis, if you’ve ever wondered to yourself or aloud- you are NOT ALONE. Let’s break it down and make it simple. No fluff, no judgment, just facts and support.

1. Diaper Count: Let’s Get Down And Dirty

Your babies diapers don’t lie. In the early days everything is on autopilot so if there is something going in, and everything is in proper working order, something WILL come out. I like to think of it as days of life, number of diapers up to the first week. Keep it simple.

Day 1: 1 wet diaper, 1 dirty diaper (quarter size or larger)

Day 2: 2 wet, 2 dirties

Day 3-5: at least 3-4 of each

Following day 5: you want to see at least 5+ wet diapers and 3+ stools

*note stool colors will change from the dark, tarry (meconium) to greenish/brown then yellow seedy stool.*

2. Weight Checks: Let’s Talk Numbers

It is common for newborns to loose up to 10% of birth weight within the first few days of life. We don’t like seeing large weight loss too soon and most babies are back to birth weigh at least by two weeks old. Infants pack on the lbs faster in the early months then slow. If you or your pediatrician have concerns regarding weight gain contact a lactation consultant for an assessment

Typical Weight Gain for Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Infants:

0-4 months: 5.5oz-8.5oz

4-6 months: 3.2oz-4.4oz

6-12 months: 1.7oz-2.8oz

3. Post-Meal Vibes: Actions Speak Louder than Words

Just like your baby has cues for when they are hungry they also have cues to let you know when they are full. An infant who is satisfied will appear calm, body will be relaxed and my favorite is “milk drunk” which is that super sleepy state. If your baby is still fussy or rooting they could either be gassy or still hungry. Offer more in small quantities. If your infant is gassy or has reflux sucking is actually calming and helps with discomfort so this can be a little tricky. Follow your infant, you’ll get the hang of the cues.

4. Your Boobs Will Tell You

If you are breastfeeding your boobs will not lie. They should feel softer and less heavy signaling good milk removal. Remember an empty breast will produce more milk than a full one. Frequent and effective removal is KEY to developing and maintaining a good supply

5. Trust Yourself

There is no better person than you to know when something is off. If you have pain, concern or questions you are not alone. You’re doing a great job and trusting your intuition that something isn’t right is enough for you to reach out for support. We can figure this out together because feeding your baby should not feel like a guessing game. Remember there is strength in numbers.

You Deserve Support That Feels Like Support

Whether you’re nursing, combo feeding, or just trying to figure it all out, you don’t have to go it alone. Let’s talk through what’s going on, check baby’s latch, and give you the clarity (and peace of mind) you deserve.

Book a consult with me here

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Hi, I’m Courtney, Registered Nurse, IBCLC and photographer based in Northeast Florida. I’m here to support your fourth trimester.

Courtney

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