Signs that your baby is getting enough breast milk
Content provided by Healthwise
Signs that your baby is getting enough breast milk
You can be reassured that your baby is eating enough and is well nourished when he or she:
- Shows an eager desire and wakes up frequently to breast-feed.
- Rhythmically sucks and swallows milk. The fronts of your baby's ears will move slightly and you usually will hear swallows.
- Breast-feeds at least 15 to 20 minutes on each breast at each feeding, and is content when finished.
- Feeds at least every 1 to 3 hours during the first 2 months. Wake your newborn every 2 to 3 hours for a feeding during the first few weeks, if necessary. After 2 months, your baby will be able to empty the breast more quickly. Feedings will then occur less often, about every 3 to 5 hours, and take less time.
- Wets about 6 to 8 cloth diapers—or 4 to 6 disposable diapers—and has at least 1 bowel movement (preferably 3) in a 24-hour period. This pattern emerges by 6 days after birth. After the first couple of months, your baby may have significantly fewer bowel movements. It is not uncommon for a healthy baby older than 2 months to go 2 to 6 days without having a bowel movement, followed by passing a yellow, soft stool.1 This is normal as long as your baby is feeding well and stools are very large and soft when they occur.
- Grows at a normal rate as judged by regular increases in weight, length, and head size. Your baby should appear healthy and happy with good muscle tone, healthy skin, and good color.
Most mothers become more confident that their babies are eating well after a few weeks of breast-feeding. It usually takes some time to establish a routine. You will learn to recognize and respond to your baby's feeding signals.
References
Citations
Lawrence RM, Lawrence RA (2004). The breast and physiology of lactation. In RK Creasy, R Resnik, eds., Maternal-Fetal Medicine, 5th ed., pp. 135–153. Philadelphia: Saunders.
Credits
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Denele Ivins |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 10, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 10, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
