How to Know Your Baby Is Getting Enough Breast Milk in the First Weeks

It’s common for new parents to wonder, or even worry, about their baby getting enough milk from breastfeeding. There are several ways to know that your baby is getting a plentiful milk supply.  

Count your baby’s diapers

Below are the minimum number of wet and stool (poop) diapers you should see. It’s fine for your baby to have more, but check with your pediatrician if they have fewer than the number on the table.  

Pay attention to your baby’s weight

During your maternity hospital stay, we will keep track of your baby’s weight. After that, your pediatrician will keep track. It’s common for babies to lose 7 to 8 percent of their birth weight in the days following birth and then begin to gain weight. If your health care team has concerns about your baby losing too much weight, you’ll make a feeding plan together to ensure your baby is growing well.  

Count your baby’s feedings

Your baby should breastfeed at least eight times every 24 hours.  

Watch your baby’s behavior

Your baby should seem relaxed and satisfied after feedings. 

Notice how your breasts feel

It’s normal to not feel milk in your breasts for the first few days after birth even though you are making the right amount of milk for your baby. In the first days of breastfeeding, babies only need small amounts of breast milk. After a few days, your breasts will begin to feel fuller and heavier, which is a sign that the amount of milk you’re making has increased. When this happens, you should notice that your breasts feel lighter and softer after feedings.  

If any of these indicators suggest that your baby may not be getting enough breast milk, reach out to your pediatrician as soon as you notice something is off.   

The Pavilion for Women can help you reach your personal breastfeeding goals

We have support available for all breastfeeding parents. Our Breastfeeding Friends Virtual Free Weekly Group is led by a lactation consultant. All breastfeeding parents are invited – it doesn’t matter where you delivered your baby or where you live. Families are also welcome to schedule an in-person or virtual visit with a lactation consultant from our Baby Bistro at the Pavilion for Women. If you delivered at the Pavilion for Women, your first visit is free. For others, a fee applies. Call 832-826-8881 to schedule.