Many mothers wonder if their baby is getting enough milk.  You may sometimes notice your baby wanting to eat very frequently, which may cause you to question if you have enough milk.  If you find yourself wondering, there are several ways to know if your baby is getting enough milk. 

Wet & Dirty Diapers

Having plenty of wet and dirty diapers is a sign your baby is well fed and hydrated by your breast milk. 

Weight Gain & Growth Charts

Weight gain is another way to measure your baby’s intake of milk.  Expect your baby to lose some weight in the days after birth.  Babies should gain this weight back quickly and continue to gain weight.¹ Stay on track with your baby’s wellness visits and check-ups to ensure your baby is meeting milestones and thriving. Here are some things to expect if baby is getting enough to eat¹:

• Loses no more than 10% of birth weight
• Returns to birth weight at 10-14 days old
• Gains 5-7 ounces a week

Sucking & Swallowing Milk

If you hear sucking and swallowing at the breast it is a sign your baby is getting milk during a feeding. You will notice your baby’s jaw and temples moving. When your milk lets down, you will start to hear swallowing sounds.¹ Many mothers describe the sound as a “keh” or “ca”.   Babies will also change from a sucking rhythm of faster to slower.  

Falling Asleep Breastfeeding

Many babies find breastfeeding soothing and fall asleep during breastfeeding.  In fact, breastfeeding your baby can be a great way to soothe them to sleep or for a nap. Your baby may naturally fall asleep or let go of the breast after each breastfeeding session. These are signs your baby is receiving enough milk. Feed your baby until they fall asleep or pull off the breast.  As your baby gets older and more alert, he or she may not fall asleep at the breast as often.  

Signs of Inadequate Milk Intake

Below are signs that your baby may not be receiving enough milk²:

• Less than 8 feedings in 24 hours
• Rarely satisfied after feedings
• Constantly looking for food
• Excessive crying 
• Falling asleep at the beginning of the feed
• Difficulty waking up to feed
• Low diaper output 
• Breasts are full after feeding (especially in first few weeks after birth)
• Not back at birth weight by 2 weeks 
• Yellow appearance to skin, or jaundice

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, this Aeroflow class expands on some of the topics discussed above:

• The Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References