Further Reading

I plan on breastfeeding my baby but am worried about supply. How will I know if I am producing enough milk?

by Amy R. Beach, CRNP, CLC

First of all, congratulations on your decision to breastfeed! It is terrific for your baby.

There are several ways to know if your baby is getting enough breastmilk. Initially, after your baby is born, colostrum is the first type of milk that is produced. This milk is very high in protein but low in volume so breasts will not feel full. Because of the low volume, babies will generally weigh less when they leave the hospital and may weigh even less at the first pediatrician’s visit.

A mother’s milk changes over the next 2-3 weeks and becomes mature. As this happens, the volume, color and consistency of the milk changes. Babies start to steadily gain weight.

A newborn should feed between 10-12 times in 24 hours. Feedings should last 20-30 minutes, assuming the baby has a good latch. You can tell if your baby is hungry by observing for feeding cues. Feeding cues are reflexes a baby does automatically to let you know they are hungry. A good cue to watch for is movement of the hands and fists which eventually go into the mouth and oral movements. Waiting for your baby to cry is a late sign of hunger.

A baby who is getting enough breastmilk will typically gain 5-7 oz weekly during the first 4 weeks of life. They should have 5-6 wet diapers daily and 4-5 stools. Some infants stool with every feeding. Breastfed baby’s stools are smaller, different in color and more frequent than a formula fed baby.

If you start nursing as soon as you can (in delivery if possible!), nurse frequently, watch for your baby’s feeding cues, and have a deep latch which includes more than just the nipple, you should have no problems with supply. If you do, seek help from a lactation counselor.

Breastfeeding classes are taught monthly at WCA hospital and can be registered for through the maternity department.