How To Tell When Baby is Getting Enough

One common concern identified by women who are breastfeeding for the first time is whether their baby is getting enough breast milk at feeding time.  There are several questions that you can ask yourself to help determine whether your baby is getting enough milk:

• Is my baby breastfeeding often enough?
• Is my baby breastfeeding effectively?
• Is my baby having enough wet and dirty diapers?
• Is my baby gaining weight appropriately?
• Is breastfeeding feeling comfortable and not painful?

The answers to these questions can be used as a guide to help you determine how well your baby is breastfeeding. 

Other good indicators of whether your baby is breastfeeding well include your baby’s appearance and behavior.  Remember that:

• Baby's mouth should look wet and pink
• Baby's eyes should look bright and clear
• Baby should have active alert periods
• Baby’s cry should be loud and strong
• Baby should appear more relaxed and sleepy after a feeding
• Baby should return to their birth weight by about 2 weeks after the birth

Remember, with the right support, most women can make enough breast milk for their baby.  If you have concerns that your baby may not be breastfeeding well, you should seek help right away from a breastfeeding professional so that you and your baby can build a solid foundation for breastfeeding success.