by Danelle Karth

Created on: June 08, 2009

Most moms new to breastfeeding find themselves worried, concerned, and asking themselves (and others), "is my baby getting enough milk?" After all, it isn't easy to just "know" that your baby is and to feel comfortable and confident that you are doing everything right. Add to that a few different breastfeeding beliefs on how and when you should feed your baby and you walk away feeling confused. But there are a few good ways to know that your baby is getting enough.

Feedings.

Each baby is different. However each baby should feed eight to twelve times in a 24 hour period. Feedings will be spaced out sporadically, but should happen every 2-4 hours including at night. While nursing can take place close together if your baby is nursing around the clock then chances are he or she isn't getting enough milk.

How It Feels and Sounds.

When the baby is latched on correctly and everything is going well you should feel a gentle tugging or pulling at your breast. It should not hurt, cause pain, or feel like a pinching. A good pull or tug is a sign that your baby is getting enough because they have a good latch. Negative feelings are often a sign that proper latch on has not occurred. You should listen for the baby swallowing every 2-5 sucks. This is a sign that he or she is getting a mouthful of milk. Some babies are very quiet eaters so if all signs are good don't worry if you can't hear your baby swallowing. Seeing milk in your baby's mouth is also a good sign.

Diapers.

Dirty diapers are a good indication of your baby's system. Counting wet diapers is a good place to begin. For the first five days of life your baby should have at least the same number of wet diapers as they number of days they have been alive. So, on day one they should have at least one wet diaper, day two at least two, and so on. After that they should have at least six to eight wet diapers in a 24 hour period.

Bowl movements are a little more complicated. The first few days the baby passes a substance known as meconium. It is dark, almost black, and rather tar like in consistency. The colostrum actually acts as a stool softener and helps to push meconium (which has built up in the system during the pregnancy out). After day three the stools should become lighter and looser. By day five they should be yellow and soft to runny. They can also be curdy or seedy. Breastfed babies should pass between two and three of these stools each day for at least the first month. After one month of age breastfed

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>